Floods and Landslides in Aceh-Sumatera: Casualties Rise, Handling Efforts Continue

The flash floods and landslides that have struck the provinces of Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra since the end of November 2025 continue to show very serious impacts. Extreme rainfall due to severe weather triggered by tropical phenomena caused rivers to overflow and hillsides to collapse, flooding residential areas and damaging critical infrastructure in various regions. As of December 24, 2025, the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) recorded that the death toll had reached 1,129 people, while thousands of residents were still displaced and dozens more were declared missing.

The affected victims not only lost their lives, but also their homes and livelihoods. BNPB reported that the number of refugees continues to increase, reaching hundreds of thousands of people at various affected locations. Additionally, damage to homes, schools, healthcare facilities, roads, and bridges exacerbated the emergency situation that the government and volunteers had to manage. This emergency situation prompted the local government to extend the emergency response status in order to expedite the response and assistance to the affected community.

The main causes of this disaster, beside the abnormally heavy rainfall, are the geographical characteristics of the Sumatra region, which is prone to flooding and landslides. Environmental experts say that the combination of extreme weather and environmental degradation, such as deforestation in upstream areas, is worsening the impact of disasters, causing rainwater to not be retained and flow directly into residential areas. This phenomenon is of significant concern to experts and policymakers for evaluating future disaster mitigation efforts.

Various parties are now working hard to mitigate the impact of the disaster. The central and local governments, along with BNPB, the Indonesian National Army and Police, and volunteers, are continuing to search for victims, evacuate, distribute logistical aid, and clear debris and mud from the affected areas. Food aid and basic necessities, including a shipment of 1.5 tons of rendang and thousands of tons of other logistics, have been sent to evacuation points to ease the burden on residents. In addition, the government is also preparing a direct cash assistance program of at least Rp8 million per family to help with economic and social recovery.

Meski begitu, tantangan besar masih dihadapi di lapangan, terutama akses ke daerah-daerah terpencil yang masih terputus akibat longsor. Otoritas setempat terus mengupayakan pembukaan kembali jalur transportasi dan pemulihan fasilitas umum agar kehidupan masyarakat dapat kembali normal. Bencana ini juga membuka ruang diskusi lebih luas tentang perlu tidaknya ditetapkan status bencana nasional agar penanganan dan bantuan dapat lebih cepat dan terkoordinasi secara menyeluruh.

Aceh, Sumatera Floods and Landslides: When Water Swallows Homes and Hopes

The heavy rain that has been relentless since the end of November 2025 is not just a matter of numbers in the weather report. For the residents of Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, it was the beginning of nites filled with anxiety, as the strong currents of water began to knock down house fences, submerge roads, and separate families from the comforts of daily life. At the beginning of the incident, hundreds of homes were already affected. Now, after several weeks have passed, the death toll continues to rise and the trail of destruction is becoming increasingly visible in the corners of the affected settlements. According to BNPB data, the number of fatalities from flash floods and landslides has reached 1,129, with hundreds of thousands of residents displaced to evacuation sites for their safety.

For Rina (35), a mother from North Aceh, the first morning after the floodwaters receded was the most heartbreaking time. The house that for decades witnessed the laughter of his children now only has muddy floors and walls that no longer stand straight. "We lost everything in a matter of hours," he said, staring at the soaking wet remains of his clothes. Similar stories are heard from other families in North Sumatra, where residents are forced to sleep in evacuation tents with thousands of others, waiting for a bag of rice, a blanket, and a little peace amidst the sound of rain that sometimes reminds them of fearful nights.

It's not just the loss of life and material damage that makes this tragedy so heavy. Environmental experts say this disaster is not solely due to heavy rainfall – an extreme natural factor – but also an accumulation of land use changes over decades. Deforestation in the watershed prevents rainwater from being absorbed naturally, causing it to flow faster and become uncontrollable when it falls in large quantities. "Extreme rainfall is indeed the peak, but the loss of forest cover upstream exacerbates the impact of this flood," said one environmental researcher.

Emergency response efforts are now underway at various affected points. Volunteers, the Indonesian military and police, as well as social organizations, are working day and nite to distribute logistical aid, reopen road access, and evacuate residents who are still trapped. Solidarity also grew from various directions; local communities, student organizations, and humanitarian organizations all came to provide assistance, from ready-to-eat meals to psychosocial support for children who had lost their sense of security. Nevertheless, the need for assistance is still very great – from food and clean water to adequate healthcare – because many villages are still isolated and difficult to reach.

What is happening in Aceh and Sumatra today is not just statistical figures or ordinary disaster news. This is a glimpse into how disasters can change the face of a community in an instant, and how resilience and solidarity are key to bouncing back. Long-term recovery is also being planned, including rebuilding homes for residents who lost their homes. However, for some families, the journey back to normal life is still long and challenging.

Steve Jobs: The Adopted Child Who Changed the World from a Small Garage

In a simple garage in Los Altos, California, two young men named Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak once sat for hours tinkering with electronic devices. No one could have predicted that this small space would one day witness the birth of Apple – the technology company that changed the way humans view computers, music, mobile phones, and even digital lifestyles. Jobs, who was born on February 24, 1955, and adopted as an infant, grew up as a curious figure who was never satisfied with the ordinary. He believes technology is not just about function, but also about beauty, emotion, and experience.

In his youth, Jobs was known not as the most brilliant technician, but as a visionary capable of seeing the future. If Wozniak was an expert at assembling machines, then Jobs was the figure who gave "soul" to Apple products. In 1976, they started Apple Computer by selling the Apple I — a hand-assembled home computer. That's where the long journey began: the Apple II, the Macintosh, and various other innovations that slowly established Apple as a symbol of creativity and the courage to challenge the mainstream of the technology industry.

However, Jobs' life was not always smooth. In 1985, he was actually fired from the company he founded himself after internal conflicts. Instead of giving up, Jobs founded a new company called NeXT and bought a small animation studio that is now known as Pixar. From there, legendary animated films like Toy Story were born. When Apple was nearly bankrupt in the late 1990s, Jobs returned – and the tech world has never been the same since. The iMac, iPod, iPhone, and iPad became icons of the digital revolution he led with a simple philosophy: elegant, functional, and easy-to-use design.

Behind his assertiveness and perfectionism, many remember Jobs as someone who could ignite the passion of others. He often talks about following intuition, the courage to take risks, and the meaning of failure for human growth. His 2005 speech at Stanford became one of the most influential messages in the modern world: Stay hungry, stay foolish. That sentence wasn't just a slogan, but a reflection of his life – always hungry for discovery, and not afraid to look "strange" for the sake of a great idea.

Steve Jobs passed away on October 5, 2011, due to complications from pancreatic cancer. However, his greatest legacy is not just Apple products, but a new way of seeing technology as part of art, culture, and humanity. From an adopted child who grew up with simplicity, Jobs proved that dreams, perseverance, and the courage to be different can change the world.

Jeff Bezos: From Humble Garage to World E-commerce King

In a small Seattle garage in 1994, a bespectacled man with a distinctive laugh named Jeff Bezos sat in front of an old computer. Around him was a simple desk, scattered cables, and a cardboard sign with the word “Amazon” painted on it. There was nothing special about the room—except for the big dream that quietly grew in Bezos’s mind: making the internet the future of global commerce. And so, Amazon was born, starting as an online bookstore run by Bezos and his small team.

Jeffrey Preston Bezos was born on January 12, 1964, in New Mexico. His childhood was filled with extraordinary curiosity. He often took apart household appliances just to see how everything worked. His mother remarried Miguel Bezos, a Cuban immigrant, who later adopted him. Since then, Bezos has grown up believing that hard work and education can change lives. Upon graduating from Princeton University, he found success working in New York's financial world – but a report on the growth of the internet led him to make a radical decision: leave his established career to start a startup.

That decision set Bezos on a long and risky path. Amazon's early days were not a glamorous story. He worked tirelessly, packing books himself, and even used an old door as a desk to save money. But the big vision was simple: to make Amazon the "everything store." Within a few years, Amazon grew from a bookstore into a global technology company that changed the way people shop. Bezos is known as a perfectionist leader who always demands innovation and is never afraid to take big risks – including investing in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and future logistics.

Outside the boardroom, Bezos has another side that is rarely seen. He founded Blue Origin, a spaceflight company born from his childhood dream of taking humans to explore outer space. For him, technology is not just about business, but also a legacy for the future of humanity. Despite a journey marked by criticism, controversy, and pressure as the world's richest person for several years, Bezos remains known as a disciplined, ambitious figure who never stops dreaming.

Now, Jeff Bezos is no longer just the founder of Amazon. He is a symbol of the courage to step outside your comfort zone and bet on an uncertain future. From a child who loved taking apart machines to a global entrepreneur, his life story reminds us that innovation often begins with curiosity — and the courage to start.

Borobudur Temple: A Silent Message from Speaking Stones

In Magelang, Central Java, morning fog often descends slowly, enveloping Borobudur Temple. From a distance, the arrangement of giant stupas looked like a mysterious mountain of stone. However, for pilgrims and tourists, Borobudur is not just an ancient building – it is an open library that carves out stories of spirituality and civilization.

Built in the 8th century, Borobudur was designed as a giant mandala depicting the human journey toward enlightenment. Each relief tells a story about life, karma, and reflections on the meaning of existence. In the past, pilgrims walked around the temple from the base to the summit, contemplating life while reading the symbols carved into the stone walls.

However, the journey of Borobudur was not always smooth. It was once buried in volcanic ash, abandoned, and even forgotten for hundreds of years. It was only in the 19th century that the temple was rediscovered and began to be restored little by little. The lengthy restoration process involved archeologists from various countries, ensuring this world heritage remains standing strong.

Now, thousands of tourists come every year. Some come to study history, others seek tranquility, and some simply enjoy the sunrise. But amidst the hustle and bustle of cameras, Borobudur remains serene. The stones seemed to whisper softly: that civilization always leaves a trace — and it's up to us whether we want to read it or not.

National Monument: Eternal Flame in the Heart of Jakarta

The 132-meter-tall tower stands proudly in Merdeka Square, Jakarta. The National Monument — or Monas — is not just an icon of the capital. It is a symbol of the nation's determination to be independent, and also a reminder that the struggle never comes easily.

The idea for its construction emerged during the era of President Soekarno, who wanted to create a national monument of pride. Monas was designed with deep philosophy, from the monument and courtyard to the golden-plated torch at the top, which symbolizes the eternal spirit of the Indonesian people. Construction began in 1961 and took years before it was finally inaugurated.

Every day, thousands of people come to Monas. Some simply stroll thru the park, others climb to the top to see Jakarta from above, and still others enter the museum at the base of the monument to learn more about the nation's history. There, the diorama of the struggle for independence seemed to transport visitors back in time.

Monas is not just a physical building. It is a marker of identity. Amidst the hustle and bustle of a city that never sleeps, Monas stands as a reminder that Indonesia was born from the dreams, beliefs, and courage of its people.

The History of Indonesian Railroads: From Steam to the Future of Rails

In the mid-19th century, the sound of the first train whistle was heard in Java. White smoke billowed from the steam locomotives, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Indonesian transportation history. At that time, trains were not just a means of transportation – they became a symbol of progress, as well as a tool connecting cities, villages, and even people.

During the colonial era, railroad lines were built to support the plantation economy. However, over time, trains became a part of daily life. Markets, settlements, and even small stations sprang up along the tracks. Trains connect longing, reunite families, and also transport workers to the city.

Entering the era of independence, the face of the railroad changed. PT Kereta Api Indonesia was established, slowly updating its fleet and systems. Steam locomotives were replaced by diesel, and now electric trains and high-speed trains are starting to appear. Modernization goes hand in hand with nostalgia, as old stations are still preserved as historical witnesses.

Behind the roar of the engine, the train holds stories about people. About passengers carrying hopes, staff working thru the nite, and old tracks that never tire of supporting the journey. The train is not just a mode of transportation – it is a nation's long journey toward the future.

Nadiem Makarim: From a Simple Idea to Indonesia's Digital Transportation Revolution

Amidst the hustle and bustle of Jakarta in the early 2010s, traffic jams were no longer just a problem—they had become a part of city life. However, behind the traffic jams, a young man named Nadiem Makarim saw an opportunity. While many people were complaining, he asked: what if technology could connect motorcycle taxi drivers with passengers just thru their phones? From that simple question, Gojek was born—a startup that would later change the face of transportation and the digital economy in Indonesia. With an elite education abroad, Nadiem could have chosen a safe career path in a large company. However, his heart was drawn back home, to build something from his own homeland.

Nadiem's journey was certainly not easy. When it first started, Gojek only had a dozen drivers and a very simple system. Many people doubted his idea—motorcycle taxis using an app? However, Nadiem remained steadfast in his vision: providing access, efficiency, and fairness for drivers who had been working without certainty. Slowly, society began to accept this concept. Users are increasing, services are expanding, and Gojek is growing bigger and bigger. Not only delivering passengers, but also food, goods, and even providing digital payments. Behind the scenes, Nadiem is known as a calm yet visionary figure, a leader who always asks, "What can we do better?" "

One of the biggest impacts of Gojek is the creation of new job opportunities for hundreds of thousands of driver partners and UMKM owners. Many who previously lost their jobs are now able to support their families thru that green app. Small warungs transformed into online merchants, housewives started home-based culinary businesses, and motorcycle taxi drivers had more stable incomes. These stories are what make Gojek more than just a tech startup; they make it a social movement that lifts the economies of lower-income communities. On various occasions, Nadiem has always emphasized that technology should serve humanity—not just numbers.

That success then led Nadiem to a new chapter in his life. In 2019, he was appointed as the Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia. Many were surprised, but Nadiem saw it as an opportunity to bring the spirit of innovation to the world of education. The Merdeka Belajar program was born as an effort to liberate students, teachers, and campuses from a rigid system. He wants Indonesian children not only to be good at memorizing, but also to be brave enough to ask questions, try things, and fail. Because for him, the future belongs to those who are brave enough to step outside their comfort zones.

Today, Nadiem Makarim is known not only as the founder of Gojek, but also as a symbol of Indonesia's young generation who dare to dream big. His journey teaches us that success doesn't come from luck alone, but from the courage to recognize opportunities, caring for others, and the determination to keep learning. From the roadside motorcycle taxi bench to the halls of national policy, Nadiem's journey shows that significant change always begins with a single small idea—fought for relentlessly.

Education in Indonesia and the Challenges of the Digital Era

In the digital age we are in now, the world of Indonesian education is at a crossroads. On one hand, the use of technology presents incredible opportunities: access to learning materials is becoming wider, learning can be done remotely, and students can develop unlimited creativity. However, on the other hand, the access gap still exists. Not all students have internet access, devices, or an environment that supports digital learning. This raises an important question: does technology truly liberate education, or does it create new disparities?

The government has actually been promoting educational transformation thru various policies. Teachers are starting to integrate technology into the learning process, while educational platforms are emerging. However, the readiness of human resources is key. Many teachers still need intensive training so they don't just transfer old methods to digital platforms, but truly utilize technology for creative and collaborative learning.

At this point, we need to promote a more inclusive education ecosystem. Affordable internet access, teacher training, and support for students from low-income families must be priorities. Education should not be limited to those who can afford devices.

Ultimately, digital education is not just about tools, but a way of thinking. If implemented seriously and evenly, technology can be a bridge to a better future. However, without equitable access, it has the potential to widen existing social gaps.

Social Media and the Public Trust Crisis Amidst Information Overload

In the last decade, social media has become a primary source of information for the public. News, opinions, and even gossip spread in seconds. This democratization of information seems like a major victory for freedom of expression. However, as time went on, a serious problem emerged: the speed of information was often not proportional to its accuracy. Hoaxes, news manipulation, and biased framing are rampant across various platforms.

This situation triggered a crisis of public trust. Many people are no longer able to distinguish between professional journalistic information and mere personal opinion. Worse, social media algorithms prioritize emotionally charged content over factual content. This traps society in an information bubble—only seeing what it wants to see.

Even mainstream media is affected. If they fail to maintain their independence and credibility, the public will increasingly turn away. At this point, not only is the truth at stake, but also the quality of democracy. Public opinion is easily swayed by information that is not necessarily true.

The solution is not as simple as banning or censoring. Digital literacy in society needs to be strengthened. Every individual needs to be equipped with critical thinking skills and the habit of verifying information. Even professional media must return to the basic principles: accuracy, balance, and press ethics.

Otherwise, we will live in an era where truth loses its meaning—and that is far more dangerous than just an information flood.

Opinion: Ethical Challenges in the Age of Artificial Intelligence — Who is Responsible for AI Decisions?

The development of artificial intelligence (AI) in recent years is moving much faster than its regulation. AI is now capable of writing, analyzing data, driving, and even assisting in decision-making in fields ranging from medicine and business to government. However, behind that ease and efficiency, an important question arises: when AI makes mistakes, who should be held responsible? Is it the designer, the owner, the government, or the machine itself?

Artificial intelligence works based on data and algorithms designed by humans. This means that biases present in society can also be incorporated into AI systems. There have been many cases of AI producing discriminatory decisions, such as racial bias in facial recognition or gender bias in job recruitment. Things like this show that AI is not a neutral system. It is shaped by human values—both conscious and unconscious. Without strong ethical oversight, AI could exacerbate social injustices.

The main problem right now is that the speed of innovation far exceeds the legal system's ability to regulate it. Many countries are still grappling with how to formulate fair policies: should AI be audited periodically? Is the company required to open its algorithm? And to what extent are personal data rights protected? These things are crucial because AI now touches sensitive aspects such as health, finance, education, and even public safety. System errors are no longer just technical bugs; they can have a real impact on human lives.

In my opinion, AI ethics should start from three pillars: transparency, accountability, and public education. Transparency means the system should not be a completely incomprehensible "black box." Accountability means it must be clear who is responsible if losses occur. While public education is important to prevent society from becoming victims of technological manipulation. With a balance of these three things, AI can become a tool for humanity—not a threat.

Ultimately, artificial intelligence is just a tool. What matters are the human values behind it. If humans build AI solely with a focus on profit, then this technology has the potential to be harmful. However, if developed with empathy, justice, and responsibility, AI could become civilization's best friend. The future of AI is not just about the sophistication of machines, but also about the moral maturity of the humans who control them.

Opinion: Digital Literacy — The Last Bastion Against Hoaxes in the Virtual World

The internet provides an incredible space for people to share information freely. However, that freedom also brings serious challenges: the proliferation of hoaxes, misinformation, and manipulation of public opinion. On social media, fake news often spreads faster than its clarification. Many people get caught up in sharing information without checking its truthfulness first. This is where digital literacy plays a vital role as the last line of defense against lies.

Digital literacy is not just the ability to use gadgets or applications. It includes the ability to analyze sources, check the credibility of information, understand context, and think critically before trusting a news story. Without these skills, society is easily influenced by provocation, hate speech, and even political propaganda. Not a few social conflicts originate from false information intentionally spread to divide people.

The problem is that some people still consider information on the internet to be absolute truth. In fact, social media algorithms are designed to show the most emotionally engaging content, not the most accurate. The more emotional the user's reaction, the more likely the content is to go viral. This is what certain parties are exploiting to spread hoaxes for political or economic gain. Without digital literacy, society becomes an easy target for manipulation.

In my opinion, digital literacy should be part of both formal and non-formal education. Schools, universities, and local communities need to equip people with information verification skills. The government and digital platforms must also work together to strengthen reporting and clarification systems. However, the most important thing is individual awareness. Everyone should ask: does this news make sense? Where did you get that from? What's the motive behind it?

By increasing digital literacy, society is not only protected from hoaxes but also becomes wiser internet users. The internet should be a space for sharing knowledge, not a battlefield for false information. Truth does sometimes move slower than lies, but with a critical society, hoaxes will no longer find fertile ground to grow.

Opinion: Gender Equality is Not Just a Women's Issue, but a Shared Interest

Gender equality is often considered solely a women's issue. In fact, at its core, this is a matter of humanity and justice. When women do not have equal access to education, employment, and leadership positions, society loses half of its potential. The country and the economy will not develop optimally if they rely solely on one gender.

In many places, women still face the stereotype that their primary role is only in the domestic sphere. They are often judged not on their abilities, but on inherited social constructs. This has an impact on limited opportunities—from access to higher education and equal employment opportunities to representation in decision-making spaces. This inequality not only harms women, but also families, children, and communities.

Gender equality doesn't mean women have to defeat men. This is about providing equal opportunities, choices free from coercion, and protection from discrimination. Men also benefit from it. In an equal environment, men are no longer burdened by rigid masculine stereotypes. They can be present fathers at home without being seen as weak. Equality allows everyone to be themselves.

In my opinion, the success of gender equality depends on cultural change, not just regulations. Education from an early age must instill the value of mutual respect. The media needs to stop portraying women solely as visual objects. The workplace must create a fair environment in recruitment, salary, and career opportunities. And most importantly, men must be involved as allies, not opponents.

Gender equality is a long-term investment in the nation's progress. When women are given equal opportunities, the creativity, innovation, and overall quality of life of society will increase. This is not the struggle of one group, but rather the struggle of all of us for a more just and humane world.

Marcus Rashford Returns from Injury, Becomes the Decisive Factor in Manchester United's Victory

Tangerang- Marcus Rashford is back in the spotlight after successfully leading Manchester United to a narrow 1-0 victory over Aston Villa in the English Premier League match held at Old Trafford, Manchester, on Sunday (December 22) local time. Rashford's only goal came in the 78th minute thru a quick counter-attack that split the Aston Villa defense. The moment felt special because Rashford had just returned to the field after being sidelined for over a month due to a hamstring injury.

For Rashford, this match was an important turning point. Over the past few weeks, he's had to sit out and focus on recovery, while also facing intense scrutiny regarding his performance, which has been considered to have declined this season. However, in front of tens of thousands of supporters packed into Old Trafford, Rashford showed that he is still a player capable of determining the outcome of a match. Starting with Bruno Fernandes' thru ball in midfield, Rashford ran past the opposing defenders and finished the chance with a low shot into the right corner of the goal, which goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez couldn't reach.

The goal was immediately met with a roar from the supporters who had been cheering throughout the match. Rashford celebrated his goal simply; he raised his hands toward the stands, as if wanting to express his gratitude to the fans who continued to believe in him. Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag praised Rashford as a player who can always perform in crucial moments, especially when the team needs a difference-maker in the final minutes of the match.

This victory also holds significant meaning for Manchester United in the competition for the top spot in the English Premier League. The additional three points keep them in contention for a top-four finish and a spot in European competition. Furthermore, this victory also boosts the team's confidence, which had been inconsistent previously.

In a post-match interview, Rashford revealed that the recovery process from his injury was not easy. He cited the support of his family, teammates, and fans as the main factor that kept him motivated to return to the field. "I just want to help the team. The injury was tough, but I never stopped believing," he said.

For many Manchester United fans, this goal was not just a game-winner, but also a symbol of the resurgence of a player who had been doubted. Rashford's long journey this season serves as a reminder that the world of sports always holds stories of falling, rising, and rediscovering confidence.

Apriyani Fadia Make a Sweet Comeback at the Indonesia Masters, Winning the Title After a Period of Absence

Tangerang- The Indonesian women's doubles pair, Apriyani Rahayu and Siti Fadia Silva Ramadhanti, once again captured public attention after winning the 2025 Indonesia Masters held at Istora Senayan, Jakarta, on Sunday (January 12th). In the final match, which lasted nearly an hour, they defeated the Japanese pair in a thrilling three-game match. This victory feels special because it's their first title after missing several tournaments due to Fadia's injury at the end of last year.

From the start of the match, Apriyani and Fadia played confidently in front of thousands of supporters who filled the Istora. The unwavering support of the fans chanting "Indonesia!" provided additional energy for both of them. Despite falling behind in the second game, they were able to bounce back thru a more patient strategy and mature ball placement. Apriyani's experience as an Olympic gold medalist was evident as she remained calm in critical moments, while Fadia demonstrated mental toughness by bravely taking the initiative in attacks.

For Apriyani and Fadia, this victory is not just about the title. It's proof that their hard work during recovery was not in vain. Fadia admitted that she was initially afraid she wouldn't be able to return to her best form after the injury. However, the support of the coaching staff, family, and teammates kept him going. We just want to enjoy the game and fight together. "This title is like a gift for everyone who believed in us," said Fadia after the match.

Eng Hian, the women's doubles coach for the PBSI national training center, believes this pair still has a great chance to continue improving. According to him, their coordination and communication on the field are becoming more mature. Additionally, a home victory provides an extra boost of confidence heading into the next major tournaments. He emphasized that the team's current focus is on maintaining consistency and player fitness.

For the audience, Apriyani/Fadia's victory was not just an achievement. This is a story about resilience, patience, and the commitment to keep getting back up even after falling. The cheers echoing thru the Istora were a testament to the fact that sports always have an emotional side capable of touching many hearts.

Persib Bandung Holds Academy Festival, Seeking Young Talent from Various Regions

Tangerang- Persib Bandung held the Persib Academy Festival 2025 at Sidolig Stadium in Bandung on Saturday–Sunday (January 18–19) as an effort to discover and nurture young Indonesian football talent. The event was attended by hundreds of participants aged 12 to 17 who came from various cities in West Java, and some even came from outside the island. Beside showcasing technical abilities, the participants were also tested on aspects of discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship, which are important parts of the Persib academy's training curriculum.

Since morning, the atmosphere of the field has been filled with the enthusiasm of the participants who came with their parents. Many of them aspire to follow in the footsteps of Persib's professional players who are currently competing in Liga 1. The academy coaches carefully observed every mini-match held, noting the names of players deemed to have the potential for further development. The selection process is conducted in several stages to ensure a more objective and comprehensive evaluation.

According to the Director of the Persib Academy, programs like this are important to ensure the smooth regeneration of players. Indonesia has so much young talent, but without proper guidance, their abilities may not develop to their full potential. Thru this festival, the club aims to provide the greatest possible opportunity for children who may not have had access to professional training until now. "We want to build not just players, but also strong characters," he said.

This festival isn't just about selection; it also includes educational sessions for parents on the importance of healthy support for children who pursue sports. A sports psychologist and nutrition team were present to provide insights into the balance between training, education, and health. This is done because the club realizes that the journey toward a professional career requires a supportive environment from various aspects.

For the participants, the experience of attending this festival became a cherished memory. Beside experiencing the atmosphere of a big club's training, they also learn about teamwork, self-confidence, and perseverance. Although not everyone will pass the selection, many parents feel proud to see their children perform bravely on the field. This festival shows that football is not just about the final score, but also about the process of shaping the character of young generations.

Government Launches National Digital Education Program

Tangerang- On Monday, January 20, in Jakarta, the Indonesian government officially launched a National Digital Education Program aimed at expanding technology-based learning across the country.

The program, inaugurated by President Joko Widodo at the State Palace, focuses on distributing digital learning devices and expanding internet access to schools in remote regions. According to the Ministry of Education, more than 30,000 schools are expected to benefit from the initiative during the first phase in 2025. The program responds to growing concerns that Indonesia is falling behind neighboring countries in digital literacy and competitiveness.

Officials stated that the government will collaborate with technology companies and local administrations to provide training for teachers and curriculum support. The initiative also aims to reduce inequality between urban and rural schools, where students often lack access to digital tools. Funding for the program will come from the national education budget and public-private partnerships.

The government hopes the program will modernize classrooms and prepare Indonesian students for a workforce increasingly shaped by technology. Implementation will begin this month, with progress reviewed annually. 

Jakarta Hosts International Marathon with Record Participation

Tangerang- On Sunday, January 19, Jakarta hosted the 2025 International Marathon, drawing more than 20,000 runners from 30 countries in the largest turnout since the event was established.

The marathon took place across key streets in central Jakarta, starting at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium before looping through Sudirman and Thamrin avenues. Participants included professional athletes, running communities, and amateur enthusiasts. The event was organized by the Jakarta provincial government in cooperation with the National Sports Committee.

Officials said the marathon aims to promote healthy lifestyles and position Jakarta as a regional sports tourism destination. Security officers and medical teams were stationed along the route to assist participants, while several main roads were temporarily closed to ensure safety. Residents gathered along the sidewalks to cheer runners, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the city.

The organizers announced that the International Marathon will return next year with an expanded route and additional categories. Many participants expressed hope that the event would continue encouraging more Indonesians to embrace fitness and outdoor sports.

Bali Tourism Rebounds as Visitor Numbers Rise Sharply

Tangerang- During the first two weeks of January 2025 in Bali, international tourist arrivals surged significantly, marking a strong rebound in the island’s tourism sector, according to provincial tourism authorities.

The increase is attributed to improved global travel confidence and the return of direct flights from several major cities in Asia and Australia. Hotels in popular destinations such as Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud reported occupancy rates above 80 percent, significantly higher than the same period last year. Tourism operators say travelers are drawn by Bali’s beaches, culture, and hospitality.

Local businesses — including restaurants, transportation providers, and souvenir shops — are also beginning to feel the positive impact. The Bali Tourism Board has emphasized the importance of maintaining service quality and environmental sustainability as visitor numbers grow. Authorities continue to remind tourists and businesses to comply with local regulations and cultural norms.

With tourism being one of Bali’s main economic pillars, officials hope the upward trend will continue throughout 2025. Promotional campaigns and international partnerships are being prepared to sustain growth.

National Football Team Begins Training Ahead of World Cup Qualifiers

 

On Monday, January 20, in Surabaya, the Indonesian national football team began its first official training camp of the year to prepare for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Thirty players were called up by head coach Shin Tae-yong, including several young talents who impressed in the domestic league last season. Training sessions are being held at Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium, where the team focuses on fitness, strategy, and tactical coordination. The Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) said the camp will run for two weeks.

Supporters have placed high expectations on the team, hoping Indonesia can advance further in the qualification stages than in previous years. Shin Tae-yong stated that discipline, teamwork, and mental strength will be key to success. Friendly matches are scheduled during the camp to assess player readiness.

The national team is set to play its first World Cup qualifier next month, with preparations now entering a crucial stage. PSSI has urged supporters across the country to continue backing the squad, both in the stadium and through positive encouragement on social media, as the players represent Indonesia on the international stage. The association believes that strong public support can boost the team’s confidence and motivation, particularly as they face technically strong opponents. Officials also emphasized the importance of unity between players, coaching staff, and fans to create an environment that helps the team deliver consistent and competitive performances throughout the qualifying campaign.

New Public Library Opens to Promote Reading Culture Among Youth

Tangerang- On Saturday, January 18, in Yogyakarta, a new modern public library officially opened to provide young people with broader access to books, digital resources, and creative learning spaces.

The facility, built by the Yogyakarta city government, features reading rooms, multimedia areas, discussion spaces, and a children’s storytelling corner. The library also provides free Wi-Fi access and digital borrowing services. During the opening ceremony, the mayor stated that the project was developed to support education and community learning.

Students and families crowded the building on its first day, browsing through novels, academic titles, and local history collections. Librarians said they plan to hold regular programs such as book clubs, workshops, and cultural talks. The library especially targets students who may not have access to books at home.

City officials hope the new library will become a vibrant community hub that inspires creativity, critical thinking, and lifelong learning among young people. They believe the facility will not only serve as a place to read and study, but also as a space where students, educators, and residents can meet, exchange ideas, and collaborate on educational and cultural activities. With modern facilities and open access to information, the library is expected to reduce barriers to learning for children from various social and economic backgrounds. The building will operate daily with extended service hours and will remain fully open to the public at no cost, reinforcing the city’s commitment to supporting education and community development.