Indonesia's Minister of Education and Culture, Nadiem Makarim, supported school closures due to COVID-19, affecting nearly 70 million students. In Surakarta, Central Java, where many students lacked access to cellphones, teachers like Sigit Pambudi turned to walkie-talkies for distance learning. Despite challenges such as unclear audio and the need for new discipline, this creative solution allowed education to continue. As Indonesia faces new COVID-19 cases and limited teacher vaccinations, students at SD Negeri Mojo will continue using walkie-talkies for lessons while other regions resume in-person classes.

In Sumba, a small island in eastern Indonesia, the Pasola is an annual equestrian war ceremony where horsemen hurl wooden spears at each other. Originating from animist traditions of the Marapu people, the event is tied to the appearance of nyale sea worms and is believed to ensure a fruitful year. Despite the spears being blunted today, the ritual remains dangerous, with injuries and even fatalities occurring. The blood spilled is considered to fertilize the soil, promising a good harvest for the village.

Indonesian Muslims celebrated Eid al-Adha amid the COVID-19 pandemic, with significant changes due to health protocols. Livestock sales for sacrifices were lower than usual, but online sales increased. The Indonesian Ulema Council issued guidelines based on the severity of the virus spread in different zones, affecting how and where prayers could be conducted. Vice President KH Ma'ruf Amin emphasized the importance of sharing and kindness during the celebration. In Jakarta, meat from sacrificed animals was distributed to the needy, though not all residents received it.

Jakarta, one of Indonesia's hardest-hit regions by COVID-19, has entered a 'transition era' after nearly three months of large-scale social restrictions. Governor Anies Baswedan emphasized that this phase is a step towards a safe, healthy, and productive society. Public facilities and transportation services are gradually reopening, with health protocols still encouraged to mitigate the virus's spread.

Indonesians have developed a strong affinity for Korean dramas, with shows like 'Crash Landing on You' and 'The World of the Married' becoming particularly popular. The high-quality cinematography and engaging plotlines captivate viewers, leading to binge-watching habits. Personal stories highlight the impact of these dramas on daily life, including increased screen time and its physical consequences. The dramas also spark discussions on social media, reflecting real-life issues such as infidelity and gender equality. Streaming platforms like Netflix, iFlix, and Viu are commonly used, though some viewers resort to free alternatives like Telegram. The phenomenon underscores the cultural influence of Korean entertainment in Indonesia.

Authorities in Bali allowed tens of thousands of Hindus to attend Nyepi Day celebrations with restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Melasti ritual was simplified, limiting participants to 25 per village and omitting the usual parade. Despite the pandemic, the festival proceeded with traditional practices, including offerings and prayers at the beach, while adhering to social distancing measures. The article highlights the unique cultural and religious practices of Balinese Hindus amid global health concerns.

Muhlis Eso, the owner of a World War II heritage museum on Morotai Island, Indonesia, strives to preserve historical artifacts amidst challenges from looters and treasure hunters. The museum, which he has managed independently since 2014, houses various war relics and attracts tourists from around the world. Eso emphasizes the importance of protecting these relics to maintain the island's historical significance and support its development as a tourist destination.

238 Indonesian citizens evacuated from Wuhan, China, were declared free from the coronavirus after a 14-day quarantine in Natuna, Riau Islands. They returned to Jakarta on February 15 via three Indonesian Air Force aircraft and were provided with health certificates by the Ministry of Health.

The city of Surakarta, Indonesia, celebrates the Chinese New Year with the Grebeg Sudiro festival, blending Javanese and Chinese cultures. The festival features parades, traditional arts, and free distribution of food under red lanterns. It commemorates the history of Chinese immigrants in Solo and their assimilation with locals. Grebeg Sudiro, which started in 2007, is a symbol of tolerance and diversity. It also marks the end of past restrictions on Chinese religious and cultural practices, which were lifted during President Abdurrahman Wahid's tenure after years of discrimination under President Suharto's regime.

In mid-July, an oil well owned by PT Pertamina began leaking into the Java Sea, affecting beaches and villages in West Java and Jakarta. By mid-August, 44 vessels were deployed to contain the spill, and hundreds of people were mobilized daily to clean up the affected areas. PT Pertamina hired Boots & Coots to assist in fixing the well, aiming to resolve the issue by late September.