The epicentre was about 129 km off the coast of Bitung at a depth of 33 km. The main quake was followed by at least 29 aftershocks, the strongest reaching a magnitude of 5.5. A 69-year-old woman died in Manado. The roof of a church collapsed. Church authorities are assessing its safety for Holy Week celebrations.
The agreement was signed at the Indonesian embassy to the Holy See in Rome, making Indonesia’s official language the 57th language of the Vatican News portal. The result of persistent diplomatic work, revitalised by Pope Francis's visit in 2024, it represents a new opportunity to bring Indonesian traditions to the world.
The 85-year-old entrepreneur had transformed the Djarum cigarette factory he inherited from his father into an economic giant with operations in various sectors, including the country’s leading private bank. A Catholic, he was known for his extremely simple lifestyle. Through his foundation, he always showed great commitment to humanitarian causes.
The tragedy occurred at the Bantargebang site, where the capital's waste is sent. This is due to the country’s failure to address the problem, while the number of dangerous situations is growing. Only 11 per cent of plastic is recycled in Indonesia.
Ulema, parliamentarians, and civil society organizations have asked Indonesian President Prabowo Subiando to leave the international body promoted by Donald Trump for the management of the Gaza crisis. Criticism is also growing over the trade agreement on tariffs signed on February 19.
The first two homes have been delivered to a village in the regency of Central Tapanuli for thousands of families forced to live in temporary shelters for months. A memorandum has been signed between the Catholic Church and local authorities for collaboration in reconstruction after the disaster. The goal: to restore dignity, security and hope.
