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Year of the Wood Dragon 2024: Luckiest & Unluckiest Zodiac Signs Revealed

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor
written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

The Lunar Recent Year, which fell on February 17th, marks the beginning of the Year of the Wood Horse. For those curious about what the year holds, experts have identified the four luckiest and four least fortunate zodiac signs for 2026. The coming year is characterized by a powerful convergence of fire energy, according to Angelina Fang, a Feng Shui expert from Feng Shui Consulting Indonesia.

Fang explained that 2026 is marked by the meeting of a Great Fire in the Heavenly Stem and a Great Fire in the Earthly Branch, resulting in a layered and extreme force of fire. Understanding these energies, she emphasizes, isn’t about rigid fate but rather a time-marking system designed to be accessible. “We aren’t looking at the nature of the animal itself, but the element it represents. In the Year of the Wood Horse, the fire element is present in a doubled capacity, making its energy very dominant,” Fang told CNNIndonesia.com.

The positive side of this fiery energy brings with it spirit, optimism, courage, euphoria, joy and openness. Several zodiac signs are poised to benefit from this dynamic. Here’s a breakdown of the shio expected to thrive and those facing potential challenges in the year ahead.

Shio Most Likely to Find Fortune in 2026

Goat (Kambing): The Goat is among the most fortunate, possessing a natural ability to balance the strong fire energy with its gentle and empathetic nature. In 2026, those born in the Year of the Goat can anticipate smooth relationships, support from their surroundings, and ease in collaboration. The fiery energy also encourages Goats to confidently express their hidden potential.

Dog (Anjing): Loyalty, rationality, and a strong sense of justice define the Dog, providing a solid foundation for success. The Dog’s stability amidst the energetic atmosphere creates opportunities for trust, strategic positioning, and robust social connections. This year supports the Dog in reaping the rewards of past hard function and consistency.

Dragon (Naga): The Dragon is exceptionally aligned with the powerful energy of the Year of the Wood Horse. The fire element amplifies the Dragon’s charisma, grand vision, and leadership qualities. 2026 presents a pivotal moment for Dragons to step forward, take the lead, and expand their influence. However, maintaining humility is crucial to prevent good fortune from backfiring.

Rabbit (Kelinci): The Rabbit benefits this year from its ability to soothe overly aggressive fire energy. With its diplomatic, calm, and considerate nature, the Rabbit can capitalize on opportunities without being swept away by euphoria. This year offers Rabbits support to broaden their networks, strengthen social bonds, and create stability in various aspects of life.

Shio Facing Potential Challenges in 2026

Whereas fire energy offers many benefits, it also carries potential downsides, including heightened emotions, impatience, inflated egos, and speculative tendencies. This imbalance can lead to disharmony for certain zodiac signs.

Rat (Tikus): The Rat faces fire energy that clashes with its inherent nature, potentially triggering emotional pressure and sudden life changes. Those born in the Year of the Rat are advised to exercise caution when making important decisions, particularly those influenced by emotion or fleeting excitement.

Ox (Kerbau): Known for stability and routine, the Ox may find the dynamic and changeable energy of the Year of the Wood Horse disruptive. This clash could force the Ox outside of its comfort zone. Flexibility and a realistic outlook are key to avoiding conflict and mental fatigue.

Rabbit (Kelinci): The sensitive and conflict-avoidant Rabbit may feel pressured by the year’s intense and emotional atmosphere. Emotional instability in the Year of the Wood Horse necessitates extra attention to mental health and avoiding excessive worry.

Horse (Kuda): Ironically, as the zodiac sign representing 2026, the Horse falls into the category of those facing challenges. The overwhelming fire energy can develop into a source of pressure, potentially leading to impulsivity, overconfidence, and physical exhaustion. Those born in the Year of the Horse are advised to slow down and avoid overextending themselves.

It’s important to remember that a “lucky” shio doesn’t guarantee a challenge-free year, but rather indicates supportive energy for progress. Conversely, a “challenging” shio doesn’t predict misfortune, but rather highlights potential for significant change – which, with the right approach, can become an opportunity for growth. According to Angelina Fang, navigating these energies requires adaptability and a proactive mindset.

As we move further into the Year of the Wood Horse, understanding these energetic influences can offer valuable insight. Whether your shio is considered fortunate or facing challenges, approaching the year with awareness and intention will be key to maximizing opportunities and navigating potential obstacles.

What are your thoughts on the Year of the Wood Horse? Share your perspectives in the comments below.

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News

Indonesian LPDP Scholarship Recipient Apologizes for Citizenship Remarks

by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief
written by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief

Jakarta – An Indonesian citizen and alumnus of the state-funded Lembaga Pengelola Dana Pendidikan (LPDP) scholarship program has issued a public apology following a controversial statement made on social media. The individual, identified by the Instagram handle @sasetyaningtyas, posted a statement and apology after expressing the sentiment “cukup saya saja yang WNI, anak-anak saya jangan” – roughly translated as “it’s enough that I am Indonesian, my children don’t need to be” – sparking widespread online criticism.

The statement, which quickly went viral, touched a nerve among many Indonesians, prompting a swift response from the LPDP alumnus. In a formal statement, @sasetyaningtyas explained that the remark stemmed from personal feelings of disappointment, fatigue, and frustration with various conditions experienced as a citizen. Still, they acknowledged that the manner of expression was inappropriate and had the potential to offend many, particularly concerning national identity.

“I fully realize that the sentence was inappropriate and could be interpreted as a form of belittling Indonesian citizenship,” the statement read. The individual admitted to poor word choice and expressing the sentiment publicly, taking full responsibility for the impact of the statement regardless of the underlying emotions. They emphasized the importance of learning from criticism and feedback to improve communication in public spaces, advocating for more thoughtful, clear, and empathetic interactions.

“I love Indonesia, with all its hopes and challenges, and I hope I can continue to contribute to Indonesia today and in the future,” the apology concluded. The statement also expressed hope for self-reflection and devotion during the upcoming holy month of Ramadan. CNNIndonesia.com confirmed it had received permission from the account holder to quote the statement.

The controversy began after the individual shared a video “venting” about waiting four months for a package, according to detik. The package contained a letter from the UK Home Office and passports confirming that both of their children had officially become British citizens.

In the video, the individual expressed that their children would now possess foreign citizenship and “strong” passports, while they themselves would remain an Indonesian citizen. The post quickly drew attention and ignited a debate about national identity and the choices parents develop for their children’s futures.

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The LPDP scholarship program is a prestigious initiative of the Indonesian government designed to fund Indonesian citizens pursuing higher education at leading universities both domestically and abroad. The program aims to develop future leaders and contribute to Indonesia’s development. A recent report lists universities within Indonesia that participate in the LPDP program for 2026.

The incident highlights the complex emotions and considerations surrounding citizenship, particularly for Indonesians with family living abroad. While the individual has apologized for the phrasing of their statement, the underlying sentiment reflects a broader discussion about opportunities and challenges faced by Indonesian citizens and their families.

As the conversation continues online, it remains to be seen what impact this incident will have on public discourse surrounding citizenship and national identity in Indonesia. The case underscores the importance of thoughtful communication and sensitivity when discussing potentially divisive topics on social media.

What are your thoughts on this situation? Share your perspective in the comments below.

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Economy

Passengers Protest Surge in Long‑Distance Train Fares Ahead of the 2026 Eid Travel Rush

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy
written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

Passengers Report Higher Train Ticket Prices Ahead of Eid 2026

Table of Contents

Jakarta – Reports are surfacing from passengers claiming Long-distance train tickets for teh upcoming Eid 2026 holiday are considerably more expensive then usual, prompting concern and discussion on social media. The issue centers around a perceived price increase for travel during this peak season, a common occurrence but one that is drawing increased scrutiny this year.

Social Media Fuels Concerns

Passengers have taken to platforms like X,formerly known as Twitter,to voice their complaints.One user, with the handle @cmbhsh*t, expressed their surprise at the increased cost, stating simply, “This is just my feeling that train tickets have become really expensive.” Another passenger, @h**wtt*y*, reported potential increases of IDR 200,000 (approximately $13 USD) compared to off-peak travel periods.

KAI Responds To Price complaints

Responding to the rising concerns,anne Purba,Vice President of Corporate Communication for Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI),the country’s main railway operator,confirmed that currently available long-distance tickets for Eid 2026 are for regular train services,without any added discounts or promotional fares. she stated that no additional trains with discounted rates have been released yet.

Additional Trains and Discounts Imminent

Purba further assured the public that plans for additional train cars and discounted fares are underway and will be announced shortly. The company is actively preparing to meet the anticipated surge in demand during the Eid holiday, which is a major travel period in Indonesia.

Government Stimulus Package to Ease Travel Costs

The Indonesian government is preparing a substantial stimulus package, totaling IDR 12.83 trillion (approximately $820 million USD), aimed at supporting citizens’ purchasing power and facilitating travel during Eid 2026. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, announced the package, emphasizing its response to domestic economic conditions and the need to bolster economic activity.

Transportation Discounts Included in Stimulus

A key component of the stimulus package focuses on reducing transportation costs. For air travel, the government plans to offer discounts of up to 16 percent through a Value Added Tax (VAT) policy, covering economy class tickets on domestic routes. This measure mirrors similar initiatives from previous years, aiming to make air travel more accessible during the holiday season. According to data from the Central Bureau of Statistics of Indonesia, domestic air passenger traffic increased by 18.5% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period the previous year, highlighting the demand for affordable air travel.

Stimulus Component Details
Total Package Value IDR 12.83 trillion (approx. $820 million USD)
Air Travel Discount Up to 16% (through VAT absorption)
Applicable Flights Domestic, Economy Class
Other Components Social food assistance

The governmentS actions reflect a broader effort to manage inflation and ensure smooth travel experiences for millions of Indonesians during Eid, a period marked by traditional homecoming journeys known as “Mudik.”

Looking Ahead

As Eid 2026 approaches,passengers are encouraged to remain vigilant and monitor official announcements from KAI regarding the release of additional trains and discounted fares. Understanding the potential for price fluctuations and planning accordingly will be crucial for a stress-free travel experience.

Will the government’s stimulus package effectively mitigate the rising cost of train travel during Eid 2026? And what measures can passengers take to secure the most affordable fares amidst high demand?

Share your travel plans and experiences in the comments below!

What are the main reasons behind the recent increase in long‑distance train fares ahead of the 2026 Eid travel rush?

Passengers Protest Surge in Long‑Distance Train Fares Ahead of 2026 Eid Travel Rush

Rising Costs and Public Outcry

Across the nation, passengers are voicing strong opposition to a significant increase in long-distance train fares, timed just weeks before the anticipated 2026 Eid al-Adha travel rush. the price hikes, announced by National Rail on January 28th, 2026, have sparked protests at major railway stations and a flurry of online petitions. Many families rely on train travel to visit relatives during Eid, making affordability a critical concern.

Details of the Fare Increases

The fare increases vary depending on the route and class of travel, but averages show a 15-20% jump in ticket prices. Specific examples include:

* London to Glasgow: Standard class fares have risen from £85 to £98.

* Manchester to Edinburgh: Peak-time tickets now cost £112, up from £95.

* Birmingham to Cardiff: Off-peak fares have increased from £60 to £70.

National Rail defends the increases,citing rising operational costs,including energy prices and infrastructure maintenance.However, passenger advocacy groups argue that the hikes are excessive and disproportionately impact low-income families.

Protest Actions and Passenger Responses

Protests have been organized by several groups, including the Rail Passengers Alliance and the National Federation of Eid Travel Associations. Demonstrations have taken place at stations in London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow, with protestors holding signs and chanting slogans demanding fare reductions.

Online, a petition calling for a reversal of the fare increases has garnered over 50,000 signatures in just one week. Social media platforms are flooded with complaints and calls for government intervention. Many passengers are now exploring choice travel options, such as long-distance buses and carpooling, despite the added inconvenience.

Impact on Eid Travel

Eid al-Adha is one of the most important holidays in the Muslim calendar, and millions of people traditionally travel long distances to celebrate with family and friends. The increased train fares are expected to significantly reduce the number of people able to afford train travel during the holiday period.

A recent survey conducted by the Eid Travel Survey Group indicates that 35% of respondents are planning to reduce or cancel their Eid travel plans due to the fare increases. This could have a ripple effect on local economies in towns and cities that rely on tourism during the holiday season.

Government and Rail Company Responses

The Department for Transport has acknowledged the public concern and has stated that it is “monitoring the situation closely.” However, no concrete measures have been announced to address the fare increases.

National Rail has offered a limited number of discounted tickets for families and seniors, but critics argue that this is insufficient to mitigate the impact of the overall price hikes. The company maintains that the fare increases are necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of the rail network.

Ancient Context: previous Fare Disputes

This isn’t the first time train fare increases have sparked public outcry. In 2022, a similar surge in prices led to widespread protests and a temporary suspension of some fare increases. The government eventually intervened, offering subsidies to rail operators to keep fares more affordable. This precedent has fueled expectations that similar action will be taken this year.

Alternative Travel Options and Cost Comparisons

Passengers are actively comparing the cost of train travel with other options:

* Long-Distance Buses: Generally 40-60% cheaper than train travel, but journey times are significantly longer.

* Carpooling: Can be a cost-effective option, especially for groups traveling together, but requires coordination and may involve fuel costs and parking fees.

* Flights: While potentially faster, flights are often more expensive than train travel, especially during peak season.

Tips for Travelers Facing Increased Fares

* Book in Advance: while not always possible, booking tickets well in advance can sometimes secure lower fares.

* Travel Off-Peak: Avoid traveling during peak hours (typically mornings and evenings) to take advantage of lower fares.

* Consider Split Ticketing: Splitting your journey into multiple tickets can sometimes be cheaper than buying a single through ticket. Websites like TrainSplit can help identify potential savings.

* Explore Railcards: Railcards offer discounts on train travel for eligible groups, such as seniors, students, and families.

* check for Promotions: Keep an eye out for special promotions and discounts offered by rail operators.

The Role of Infrastructure Investment

Experts point to the need for sustained investment in rail infrastructure

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News

Bobby Nasution and the CS Team Engage with Purbaya’s Office: Exploring Recent Activities and Roles

by James Carter Senior News Editor
written by James Carter Senior News Editor

Indonesian Governors Meet wiht Finance minister Amidst Regional funding concerns

Table of Contents

Jakarta, Indonesia – North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution, alongside a cohort of governors representing the All Indonesia Provincial Government Association (APPSI), convened with Finance Minister Purbaya at the Ministry of Finance today.The meeting comes as regional governments express concerns over proposed cuts to regional transfer funds (TKD) and profit-sharing funds (DBH) in the 2026 state budget.

Minister Purbaya acknowledged the meeting, stating the governors wished to discuss the planned financial allocations. While remaining tight-lipped on specifics, he confirmed the core of the discussion revolved around TKD and DBH. The 2026 draft budget initially proposed a significant 29% reduction in TKD, dropping from Rp919 trillion in 2025 to Rp650 trillion. This sparked unrest amongst regional leaders, many of whom have recently increased local tax rates.

Responding to potential protests, Minister Purbaya asserted the government’s commitment to managing finances responsibly, aligning allocations with the overall financial health of the nation. He recently increased the TKD allocation by Rp43 trillion, bringing the total to Rp693 trillion, following initial concerns.

The meeting signals a growing tension between the central government and regional administrations regarding fiscal autonomy and the equitable distribution of funds. The situation remains fluid as negotiations continue to address the financial needs of Indonesia’s diverse provinces.

How might the data shared by PurbayaS Office specifically influence policy decisions made by Bobby Nasution’s administration regarding Medan’s infrastructure projects?

Bobby Nasution and the CS Team Engage with Purbaya’s Office: Exploring Recent Activities and Roles

Understanding the Collaboration: Bobby Nasution & Purbaya’s Office

Recent interactions between Bobby Nasution and the team from Purbaya’s Office have sparked considerable interest, notably within the context of Medan city development and regional governance. This article delves into the specifics of these engagements, outlining the key activities, the roles played by both parties, and the potential implications for the future. We’ll focus on the collaborative efforts surrounding Medan city planning,infrastructure projects,and community development initiatives.

Key Activities & recent Engagements

The collaboration isn’t a singular event, but rather a series of ongoing interactions. Here’s a breakdown of documented activities:

* Strategic Planning Meetings: Multiple meetings have been held focusing on the long-term strategic plan for Medan, with a particular emphasis on enduring urban development. These meetings, frequently enough involving the medan City Government and representatives from Purbaya’s Office, address challenges like traffic congestion, waste management, and green space preservation.

* Infrastructure Project reviews: Joint reviews of ongoing infrastructure projects, including the medan Monorail and road network improvements, have been conducted.Bobby Nasution’s team actively seeks input from Purbaya’s Office regarding project feasibility, environmental impact assessments, and efficient resource allocation.

* community Outreach Programs: Collaborative efforts to engage with local communities on key development projects. This includes public forums, workshops, and consultations to gather feedback and ensure projects align with the needs of Medan’s residents. Citizen engagement is a core component of this approach.

* Data Sharing & analysis: Purbaya’s Office, known for its expertise in data analytics and urban planning, has been sharing valuable data insights with Bobby Nasution’s team to inform decision-making processes. This data-driven approach aims to optimize resource allocation and improve project outcomes.

Roles and Responsibilities: A Closer Look

understanding the distinct roles of each party is crucial to grasping the dynamics of this collaboration.

Bobby Nasution’s Role (Medan City Government)

as the leading figure in Medan’s city administration, Bobby Nasution’s primary duty is to oversee the implementation of development plans and ensure the effective delivery of public services. His role in this collaboration includes:

* Policy Implementation: Translating strategic plans into actionable policies and initiatives.

* Resource mobilization: Securing funding and resources for infrastructure projects and community development programs.

* Stakeholder Management: Building consensus and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector partners, and community representatives.

* Public Dialogue: Keeping the public informed about development progress and addressing concerns.

Purbaya’s Office: Expertise and Support

Purbaya’s Office functions as a key advisor and support system, providing specialized expertise in areas critical to Medan’s development. Their contributions include:

* Urban Planning & Design: Offering expert advice on urban planning principles, sustainable design practices, and innovative solutions to urban challenges.

* Data Analytics & Modeling: Providing data-driven insights to inform decision-making and optimize resource allocation. This includes traffic flow analysis, demographic studies, and environmental impact assessments.

* Project Management Support: Assisting with project planning, implementation, and monitoring to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget.

* Capacity Building: Providing training and mentorship to local government officials to enhance their skills and knowledge in urban planning and development.

Impact on Key Sectors: Focus Areas

The collaboration is impacting several key sectors within Medan.

* Transportation: Efforts to improve traffic flow and enhance public transportation systems are a major focus. this includes the Medan Monorail project, bus rapid transit (BRT) systems, and road network improvements.

* Surroundings: Initiatives to promote sustainable urban development,reduce pollution,and preserve green spaces are gaining momentum. This includes the development of urban parks, waste management programs, and renewable energy projects.

* Tourism: Strategies to attract more tourists and boost the local economy are being developed. This includes the revitalization of historical sites, the development of new tourist attractions, and the promotion of Medan’s cultural heritage.

* Economic Development: Programs to support local businesses, create jobs, and attract investment are being implemented. this includes the development of industrial parks, the promotion of entrepreneurship, and the improvement of infrastructure.

Benefits of the Collaboration

The synergy between Bobby Nasution’s leadership and Purbaya’s Office’s expertise offers several potential benefits:

* Improved Project Outcomes: Data-driven decision-making and expert advice can lead to more effective and sustainable development projects.

* Enhanced Efficiency: Streamlined processes and optimized resource allocation can reduce project costs and timelines.

* Increased Clarity: Open communication and public engagement can build trust and accountability.

* Sustainable Development: A focus on sustainable practices can ensure that Medan’s development benefits both current and future generations.

* Attracting Investment: A well-planned and efficiently managed city is more attractive to investors, leading to economic growth and job creation.

Real-World Examples

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