West Sumatra Regional Police Chief Irjen Gatot Tri Suryanta officially launched a collaborative People's School (Sekolah Rakyat) coaching programme with the West Sumatra Provincial Social Services on 10 March, implementing free education initiatives mandated by Presidential Decree 120/2025. The programme seeks to strengthen youth character development through comprehensive coaching schemes, with students demonstrating skills in discipline, physical training, and scouting, whilst the Social Services chief expressed hopes to elevate the cooperation into a permanent initiative.

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has appealed to civil society organisations to refrain from forcing businesses to provide holiday bonuses (THR), emphasising the need to maintain a conducive business climate in the capital. Pramono stressed the importance of maintaining harmonious relations between communities, organisations, and business actors to ensure economic stability in Jakarta.

A Member of the Indonesian Parliament from the Gerindra Party, Longki Djanggola, distributed 3,000 packets of takjil (fasting-breaking meals) to commuters across three locations in Palu City during the month of Ramadan. The social initiative, carried out alongside party cadres and sympathisers, aimed to assist travellers still on the road at the time of breaking the fast, whilst strengthening the relationship between the elected representative and constituents.

Global oil prices have surged past $100 per barrel for the first time since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, driven by energy uncertainty following escalating conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran since 28 February. The crisis threatens critical maritime shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, which handles over 20 million barrels daily—a fifth of global oil consumption—with limited alternative routes available. Prolonged supply disruptions risk sustained high prices and significant economic slowdown, particularly affecting major Asian importers who receive 89% of Hormuz oil flows.

Interior Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has instructed all regional leaders to remain in their respective territories during the 2026 Eid period, emphasising that their presence is crucial for managing potential crises arising from mass migration and celebrations. Tito stressed that the regional head's duties cannot be delegated to subordinates, citing the need for decision-making authority during periods of high public mobility, potential natural disasters, and the need to maintain price stability and goods availability.

The East Jakarta municipal government has taken enforcement action against six inter-city, inter-provincial buses found operating at an unauthorised terminal at the Rebo Market Flyover intersection. One bus was ordered to cease operations for lacking proper route permits, whilst five others were issued traffic citations for loading and unloading passengers at unapproved locations. The crackdown, involving 40 personnel, was conducted in preparation for the Eid holiday exodus to ensure public safety and prevent traffic congestion.

A 30-metre cliff collapse in Brebes, Central Java on 8 March 2026 destroyed part of SMP Muhammadiyah Cilibur school and severed a crucial village road linking Cilibur to Bumiayu. The incident, occurring after extreme weather on 6 March, caused no deaths but displaced 142 residents and damaged 143 homes, with disaster relief services continuing for evacuees.

Kidney cancer, most commonly renal cell carcinoma, often develops slowly without early symptoms, but back pain can be an important warning sign. Doctors emphasise that kidney cancer-related back pain has distinctive characteristics and may occur alongside other symptoms such as haematuria, with early detection being crucial for improving treatment success rates. Global data shows over 430,000 new cases of kidney cancer are recorded annually, with major risk factors including smoking, obesity, and high blood pressure.

The Indonesian Ministry of Finance has noted a decline in bid-to-cover ratios for State Securities (SUN) auctions in early 2026, with the average falling to 1.95 times compared to 2.27 times in the same period last year. The ministry attributes this to rising global geopolitical uncertainty and seasonal factors, whilst maintaining a flexible and opportunistic approach to managing government debt financing without plans to change auction frequency.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned Japto Soerjosoemarno, chairman general of Pemuda Pancasila, regarding alleged receipt of gratification stemming from a corruption case involving the former Regent of Kutai Kertanegara. The investigation follows an alleged scheme in which the former regent demanded compensation in US dollars per tonne of coal extracted, with funds subsequently flowing to businessman Said Amin and ultimately to Japto, from whom the KPK seized 11 vehicles and IDR 56 billion during a house search.

The appointment of Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran's supreme leader signals Tehran's strengthened resistance against pressure from the United States and Israel, according to Middle East experts from the University of Indonesia. With Israel striking an Iranian oil refinery near Tehran on 7 March 2026 and Iran retaliating with drone attacks on Israeli facilities in Haifa on 9 March, analysts warn that armed conflict between Iran and the Israel-US alliance remains at peak intensity with little prospect of near-term resolution or peace negotiations.

The Jakarta-Tangerang toll road has suffered severe damage with multiple potholes, causing congestion stretching over 24 kilometres on the Cikupa-Karang Tengah stretch towards Jakarta on 10 March. The deterioration, exacerbated by recent flooding on 8 March, has prompted complaints from motorists and lorry drivers about delays and safety concerns, with toll operator Jasamarga stating that repairs are being carried out in stages.

President Prabowo Subianto marked the Nuzulul Quran, the occasion of the revelation of the Quran, on the evening of 10 March 2026 at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta, alongside numerous cabinet ministers, legislative leaders, and Islamic scholars. The event, attended by approximately 30 orphans and prominent figures including preacher Quraish Shihab and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, served as an official state commemoration of the religious occasion, with Prabowo delivering remarks on the significance of the Quranic revelation.

Deputy Chair of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Eddy Soeparno has emphasised that energy security is now inseparable from national security, citing rising global crude oil and gas prices triggered by Middle East conflicts. He warned that disruptions to Indonesia's oil and gas supplies could cripple the economy, and called for supply diversification, increased fuel reserves, and accelerated energy transition to mitigate risks.

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa inaugurated 1,585 officials at the Ministry of Finance on Tuesday, 10 March 2026, including 44 echelon II-level positions across various units. Purbaya characterised the rotation and appointments as strategic state decisions critical to Indonesia's fiscal resilience and economic stability, emphasising that strong fiscal management is foundational to national development and that officials must maintain high integrity in managing public funds. The minister acknowledged recent public concerns about integrity within the ministry following several high-profile cases involving officials in the tax and customs directorates.

The Post-Disaster Acceleration of Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force, led by Muhammad Tito Karnavian, is prioritising the repair of temporary roads and bridges across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra to restore regional connectivity following recent disasters. As of March 2026, approximately 90 per cent of local roads and 67 per cent of local bridges have returned to functional status, whilst all national road and bridge networks have been fully restored, enabling the gradual normalisation of economic activities and logistics distribution in affected areas.

PT Transportasi Jakarta (Transjakarta) has partnered with Bank BRI to introduce "QRIS Tap" technology through the BRImo mobile application, enabling customers to purchase bus tickets using contactless payment methods. The new payment system is now accessible at 568 entry gates across 14 BRT corridors and 1,950 tap-on-bus devices on non-BRT buses, supporting Indonesia's push toward integrated and inclusive public transport payment systems.

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has asserted that the nation's financial market remains resilient amid escalating global economic and geopolitical volatility. Acting Head of Capital Market, Derivative Finance and Carbon Exchange Supervision at OJK, Hasan Fawzi, noted that whilst global dynamics are influenced by geopolitical fragmentation and economic uncertainty—including tensions in the Middle East that could drive up commodity prices—domestic market activity and investor capital flows remain stable. The OJK official cautioned that such global shocks typically trigger secondary impacts on financial sectors, with investors initially shifting to safer assets in a "flight to quality" strategy.

A West Java provincial legislator has called on regional agencies within the provincial government to expand employment opportunities for persons with disabilities, citing the recent hiring of a deaf woman as a sign language interpreter at the Regional Revenue Agency as a positive example of inclusive governance. The legislator emphasises that inclusive policies not only improve the welfare of persons with disabilities but also signal broader government commitment to non-discriminatory public services and offer hope to families with children with special needs.

President Prabowo Subianto held a state-level Nuzulul Quran commemoration on 10 March 2026 at the State Palace in Jakarta, attended by 278 guests including Minister of Religion Nasaruddin Umar. Religious scholar Quraish Shihab delivered remarks highlighting the Quran's linguistic perfection and its lessons on justice, whilst President Prabowo reflected on leadership as a divine responsibility to uphold truth, justice, and the welfare of all citizens.

Jakarta's Department of Health has reported zero confirmed cases of measles among residents as of March 2026, though surrounding areas have begun reporting cases. With increased mobility expected during the Lebaran holiday period, health authorities are urging residents to take precautions, particularly regarding close contact with infants and young children who are most vulnerable to the disease.

President Donald Trump has sent contradictory messages within 24 hours regarding the timeline for concluding military operations against Iran, first suggesting imminent completion before later stating the conflict would not end this week. His inconsistent stance reflects broader tensions in the Middle East conflict, including threats from US Senator Lindsey Graham regarding defence cooperation with Saudi Arabia and regional powers' refusal to allow their territories to be used for attacks on Iran.

Kharg Island in the Persian Gulf, which handles approximately 90% of Iran's crude oil exports, has become a strategic focal point amid escalating Middle Eastern conflict. Analysts warn that controlling the island would severely damage Iran's economy and provide significant leverage to the United States in future negotiations, though military operations to capture it would be extremely risky and resource-intensive.

Women-led micro, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Indonesia require a robust legal foundation—including business licences, brand protection and financial readiness—to scale and upgrade their operations, according to a seminar organised by law firm Dentons HPRP in Jakarta on the occasion of International Women's Day. The event featured legal experts and banking representatives who emphasised that foundational legal compliance, starting with a business identification number (NIB) and relevant permits, is essential for SMEs to access financing and protect their interests.

Indonesian researchers from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) have identified and formally described a new species of land snail, Chamalycaeus dayangmerindu, found exclusively in the Padang Bindu karst region of South Sumatra. The discovery, published in the international journal ZooKeys, highlights the importance of systematic biodiversity documentation in protecting Indonesia's unique ecosystems, particularly as karst habitats face threats from land conversion and mining. The research underscores the critical role of taxonomy and biosystematics in understanding and conserving Indonesia's rich biodiversity.

Muhammad Misbakhun, Chairman of the House of Representatives' Commission XI, has urged Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa to improve communication with global rating agencies to maintain investor confidence in the Indonesian economy. Misbakhun emphasised that assessments from agencies such as Moody's and Fitch significantly influence investor perception and market stability, and highlighted the need for the government to clearly explain fiscal sustainability, particularly regarding large-budget programmes such as the Free Nutritious Meal initiative.

Yogyakarta's food supply situation remains secure ahead of Eid 2026, with key staples including rice, chicken eggs, chicken meat, cooking oil, and sugar all recording surpluses. The Department of Agriculture and Food reported rice supplies at approximately 2,770 tonnes per week against weekly demand of 1,900 tonnes, providing a surplus of around 780.8 tonnes with a one-month and four-day buffer. Although most commodities are stable, red chilli prices remain volatile due to weather conditions, fluctuating between Rp70,000 and Rp95,000 per kilogramme.

A Mikrotrans bus on route JAK 03 overturned in a single-vehicle accident on Jalan Raya Lebak Bulus in South Jakarta on 10 March 2026, with passengers seen climbing out through doorways. Of the seven passengers on board, three received hospital treatment and were later discharged in good condition, whilst four continued their journeys. Transjakarta has launched an investigation into the cause of the accident and apologised for the incident.

The Vehicle Testing Service Unit (UP-PKB) Cilincing, together with Tanjung Priok Terminal management in North Jakarta, has begun conducting comprehensive safety checks on inter-city buses that will be used for Lebaran 2026 mudik (homecoming) travel. Inspections cover administrative documentation, vehicle technical conditions, emergency equipment, steering, braking systems and tyre condition, with non-compliant vehicles required to undergo repairs before operation resumes. The initiative aims to ensure all long-distance buses meet transport safety standards and are roadworthy for the high-volume holiday travel period.

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk approved a cash dividend distribution of Rp 13.03 trillion from net profits of Rp 20.04 trillion for the 2025 financial year, representing approximately 65 per cent of net profit. Analysts view the dividend payout as a balanced approach to returning value to shareholders whilst maintaining sustainable business operations and retaining sufficient capital for the bank's expansion and financial strengthening.

Indonesia has officially signed the Agreement on Reciprocal Tariff (ART) with the United States, opening approximately 99 percent of US goods tariffs. Whilst viewed as a strategic move to maintain Indonesia's export market access, economists note the deal lacks symmetry, as American tariffs on Indonesian products remain at up to 19 percent. The agreement risks harming domestic industries with high production costs, but could benefit sectors integrated into global value chains such as textiles, electronics, and pharmaceuticals.

South Kalimantan provincial government is seeking to bridge a Rp2.1 trillion budget shortfall resulting from central government budget cuts by leveraging Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds from companies operating in the region, particularly from coal mining and palm oil sectors. The province is developing an integrated digital CSR management system and regulatory framework to ensure transparent and widespread distribution of corporate funds across development needs including infrastructure, healthcare, poverty alleviation, and stunting mitigation.

Dutch intelligence agencies have issued a warning that Russian-backed hackers have successfully compromised WhatsApp and Signal accounts belonging to government officials, military personnel, and journalists. The hackers employ phishing tactics, impersonating support chatbots to trick users into revealing security codes and personal identification numbers. Both WhatsApp and Signal have responded by reiterating security measures and emphasising that their encryption infrastructure remains uncompromised.

Former Minister of Education, Culture, Research and Technology Nadiem Makarim testified as a witness in a corruption trial involving alleged Chromebook procurement fraud, claiming he met Microsoft executives four times and Apple twice whilst in office. Nadiem is accused alongside three defendants of causing state financial losses of Rp 2.1 trillion through allegedly directing technology procurement towards Google's Chrome-based products and unlawfully enriching himself by Rp 809 billion through Google investments in Gojek.

Karawang Police have announced operational restrictions on three-axle or larger freight vehicles throughout Karawang District from 13 to 29 March 2026 during the homecoming exodus period, based on a joint decree between the Directorate General of Land Transport, National Police Traffic Corps, and Directorate General of Highways. Exceptions are granted for vital logistics vehicles including fuel transport, livestock, fertiliser, disaster relief, and essential foodstuffs, provided they carry proper documentation, whilst violating vehicles will be diverted to designated parking areas.

The Central Java Regional Police have issued an early warning to holidaymakers to be cautious of fatigue points on Central Java tollways during the 2026 Lebaran exodus, particularly on the Pejagan–Semarang and Semarang–Solo routes where drivers are predicted to experience physical and mental exhaustion. Authorities have prepared 25 rest areas across Central Java's tollway network and implemented one-way traffic management schemes to accommodate the sharp increase in vehicle volume from western regions, alongside digital services and vehicle safety checks to ensure safe travel.

A member of Indonesia's parliamentary Commission IX has emphasised that the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, a priority initiative of President Prabowo Subianto, provides healthy and balanced nutrition at affordable costs. The programme aims to improve child development, combat malnutrition and stunting, whilst creating local economic opportunities and educating the public about proper nutrition.

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono has pledged that the government is working around the clock to ensure infrastructure and transportation readiness ahead of the Lebaran exodus this year, focusing on optimising national roads and major arterial routes. The government is preparing multimodal transport across land, sea, air and rail, offering fare discounts to make travel more affordable for citizens nationwide. The authorities are particularly vigilant about major toll routes including Trans-Java and Trans-Sumatra, with concerns over potential extreme weather conditions such as heavy rainfall that could damage roads and increase accident risks during the busy holiday period.

Former Education Minister Nadiem Anwar Makarim testified that all online meetings during his tenure from 2019-2024 were not recorded as this complied with standard protocols for Zoom meetings. Nadiem is a crown witness in a corruption trial involving three defendants accused of causing state losses of Rp2.18 trillion through the procurement of Chromebooks and Chrome Device Management systems in the education digitisation programme.

Dr Kristiana Siste Kurniasanti, a psychiatrist specialising in addiction and head of psychiatry at Indonesia's national hospital, has advised parents on setting appropriate boundaries for children's gadget usage, particularly during school holidays. She recommends parents act as role models, establish household rules such as using gadgets only in common areas, set daily time limits not exceeding three hours, and implement device-free times—particularly before bedtime. The expert also counsels parents to remain firm when children protest restrictions, as tantrums often represent attention-seeking behaviour rather than genuine distress.

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has allocated an additional IDR 4.39 trillion in regional transfers to 67 districts across three Sumatra provinces affected by disasters in late February 2026. The funds are intended to support local governments in post-disaster recovery efforts, complementing emergency response and rehabilitation funding from the central government, with distribution planned across three phases from February to April 2026.

Indonesia's Foreign Minister Sugiono announced that 36 Indonesian citizens (WNI) have registered for a second wave of evacuation from Iran, with registration still ongoing. The government has not yet finalised the evacuation schedule, citing security and operational considerations, though it hopes to complete the second wave evacuations within the week. The evacuations follow deteriorating security conditions in the region.

A criminal gang broke into a petrol station in Bekasi's Babelan district on 10 March 2026, stealing approximately IDR 100–130 million in sales revenue from the safe. The perpetrators damaged CCTV equipment, threatened staff with weapons including a toy pistol and swords, and assaulted several employees during the robbery; police are continuing investigations to identify the culprits.

The Nasional Mandate Party (PAN) has announced disciplinary action against Rejang Lebong Regent Muhammad Fikri Thobari following his arrest by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in a sting operation. PAN's Secretary-General Eko Hendro Purnomo stated the party will conduct internal evaluations and strengthen oversight mechanisms, whilst dismissing Thobari from party membership and all structural positions. The regent and his deputy Hendri were detained in connection with allegations of bribery related to regional government projects.

Sumedang District Government has intensified supervision of the Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG) by conducting inspections at food preparation facilities operated by nutrition service units (SPPG). Deputy Regent M Fajar Aldila visited the Kertamekar 2 SPPG kitchen to monitor food quality, hygiene standards, and worker health conditions, emphasising the importance of rigorous oversight to prevent errors and ensure beneficiaries receive safe, nutritious meals in accordance with the national programme policy.

Indonesia's Coordinating Ministry for Economics views the bonus hari raya (holiday bonus) as an instrument to strengthen partnerships between online transportation service platforms and their driver partners whilst improving driver welfare. The government official noted that the initiative aligns with efforts to create an adaptive and sustainable employment ecosystem, highlighting how the online transportation sector has become an economic mainstay in various regions, creating inclusive jobs and supporting small and medium enterprises.

Solo Mayor Respati Ardi conducted a surprise inspection of essential commodity prices and availability ahead of Idul Fitri, finding stocks and prices stable but consumer purchasing power declining in traditional markets. The city government plans campaigns to encourage shopping at traditional markets and will coordinate with nutrition centres to source provisions locally, whilst Bulog confirmed adequate rice and cooking oil supplies to last six months.

Israeli occupation forces have maintained an eleven-day closure of the Al-Aqsa Mosque complex, preventing Palestinian Muslim worshippers from accessing the holy site, citing security concerns related to tensions with Iran. This unprecedented closure during the final days of Ramadan has prevented Tarawih and Iktikaf prayers from being performed at the mosque for the first time since the 1967 occupation of Jerusalem. Palestinian and Jerusalem authorities warn that the closure represents a systematic political and ideological agenda aimed at altering the religious, historical, and legal status of the Al-Aqsa compound, rather than a temporary security measure, with Jewish extremist organisations escalating incitement against the mosque.

Singkawang's annual Cap Go Meh festival has evolved into a major economic driver and tourism draw that strengthens the city's position as a culturally-based destination with national and international appeal. The 2026 celebration attracted high-level government officials and the Chinese Ambassador, demonstrating recognition of the festival's significance in promoting social harmony and competitive advantage. The event exemplifies Indonesia's diversity principle through inclusive participation across religious and ethnic communities.

The Peace Cartenz Task Force in Papua arrested Philip Kobak, alias Nenak Kobak, an armed group commander in Yahukimo, following months of surveillance and intelligence operations. Kobak, who leads the Kimbusa Company Operations Unit within the Kodap XVI structure, has been implicated in violence, murders, and school facility destruction across Yahukimo and surrounding mountainous regions of Papua. The arrest represents an ongoing security operation aimed at maintaining stability in the region.