Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 13 March 2026

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Human Rights Minister Condemns Acid Attack on Human Rights Activist

Indonesia's Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has strongly condemned an acid attack on Andrie Yunus, deputy coordinator of the Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (KontraS), and called for police to immediately investigate the perpetrators and motive. The minister emphasised that the state has an obligation to protect all citizens from violence and that the attackers must face objective legal proceedings to ensure justice for the victim.

Vehicle Sales Growth Signals Improving Consumer Spending Power

Indonesia's automotive sector recorded double-digit growth in February 2026, with car sales rising 12 per cent, signalling a broader recovery in consumer purchasing power that has continued since mid-2025. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa attributed the upswing to increased consumption across consumer goods, education, and mobility sectors, reflected in the Mandiri Spending Index reaching 360.7 in February 2026. The Association of Indonesian Automotive Manufacturers reported wholesale car sales of 81,159 units in February, up 22.1 per cent month-on-month and 12.2 per cent year-on-year.

Metro Police Chief Urges Brimob Officers to Be Humanitarian Police, Not to Harm Citizens

The Metropolitan Police Chief instructed 1,000 newly trained Brimob mobile brigade personnel to serve as a force that brings security and peace rather than fear, emphasising humanistic conduct whilst remaining firm. He stressed the need for loyalty to the nation and institution, continuous self-improvement, and a commitment to protecting rather than harming the public.

Why Should Measles Vaccination Be Timely? Here's a Paediatrician's Explanation

Indonesia ranks second globally in measles cases, prompting the Indonesian Paediatric Association to emphasize timely MR (measles-rubella) vaccination. The first dose should be administered at nine months of age, as maternal antibodies wane by then, and vaccination coverage must reach 95% to establish herd immunity and protect vulnerable children who cannot receive live vaccines.

Finance Minister Says Some Economists "Rather Strange" for Claiming Indonesia in Recession

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa told President Prabowo Subianto that some economists are incorrectly claiming Indonesia is in recession, when economic indicators actually show acceleration following last year's slowdown. Citing manufacturing PMI at 53.8 (highest in two years), consumer confidence at 125.2, and car sales growth of 12.2% in February, Purbaya argued that the economy is strengthening and household purchasing power is improving under the President's policies.

Prabowo: Global Crisis Affects Many Nations, but Indonesia's Economy Continues and People Must Remain Calm

President Prabowo Subianto has acknowledged that most countries are experiencing crises stemming from global uncertainty, yet has reassured Indonesians that the nation's economy remains operational and stable. Speaking at a full Cabinet meeting at the State Palace on 13 March 2026, Prabowo emphasised that Indonesia retains the strength to manage its economic momentum whilst calling on ministers to provide excellent services during the 2026 Eid exodus, prioritising citizen safety and comfort.

Jakarta Governor to Issue Warnings to Offices Using Groundwater

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced that his administration will issue warnings to office buildings in the capital that continue to use groundwater, instead of mandating they switch to piped water services from state-owned PT PAM Jaya. The move addresses concerns that excessive groundwater extraction accelerates land subsidence in Jakarta, particularly in coastal areas, and aims to enforce existing regulations prohibiting groundwater use in areas already served by the piped water network.

Acid attack on Andrie Yunus: Police suspect two perpetrators

Police in Jakarta have identified two suspected perpetrators in the acid attack on Andrie Yunus, deputy coordinator of the Commission for the Disappeared and Victims of Violence (KontraS), which left him with severe burns to his hands, body, face and vision impairment. The police are prioritising the victim's medical recovery whilst conducting investigations including witness statements, evidence collection and crime scene analysis. KontraS has urged law enforcement to thoroughly investigate the attack, characterising it as an attempt to silence critical voices in the human rights advocacy community.

Cilacap Regent Syamsul Auliya Caught in Sting Operation Declares Assets Worth Rp 12 Billion

Cilacap Regent Syamsul Auliya Rachman, arrested in a sting operation on 13 March 2026, declared total assets of Rp 12.039.790.782 in his State Officials' Asset Declaration report submitted to the KPK. His primary holdings comprise real estate valued at Rp 8.15 billion across two properties in Cilacap, alongside vehicles and machinery worth Rp 1.4 billion, including two Toyota vehicles.

Higher Education Ministry: Medical Collegium Connectivity Supports Constitutional Court Ruling

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology emphasised that the connectivity and cohesion of independent medical collegia are essential to supporting the Constitutional Court's decisions on medical profession governance. The Constitutional Court has reinforced the independence of medical collegia as scientific bodies, limiting government involvement to administrative aspects only, whilst medical colleges must map specialist doctor requirements to ensure appropriate placement in needed areas.

Home Minister Inspects Readiness for 2026 Eid Return Exodus at Merak Port

Indonesia's Home Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian inspected Merak Port in Banten to assess preparations for the anticipated surge of passengers during the 2026 Eid holiday exodus, conducting facility reviews and coordinating with relevant ministers and officials. The government aims to ensure safe, smooth, and comfortable travel during the mudik season, which is expected to begin around 18 March 2026, with return traffic predicted for 29 March 2026. Officials emphasised the importance of spreading traveller movements across several days to prevent congestion and highlighted various innovations and inter-agency coordination to enhance service quality.

Purbaya Reports to Prabowo: Foreign Investors Still Trust Indonesia

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa reported to President Prabowo Subianto that foreign investor confidence in Indonesia remains strong despite regional geopolitical tensions between Iran, the United States, and Israel. The yield spread between Indonesian government securities and US Treasury bonds has only marginally increased by 0.3 basis points to 243 basis points, with foreign capital flows into the securities market continuing to exceed outflows, demonstrating sustained investor faith in Indonesia's economic fundamentals.

Energy Ministry Praises Pertamina's Readiness Ahead of Ramadan at Balongan Refinery

Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry visited Pertamina's Balongan Refinery in West Java to assess preparedness for the 2026 Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr period, with officials confirming that fuel and LPG supply is secure. Pertamina has reactivated its Ramadan Task Force to ensure smooth distribution of petroleum products and supporting services to the public during the festive season.

EV Homecoming Traffic Forecast to Exceed 23,000 Vehicles, PLN Strengthens Charging Infrastructure

The use of electric vehicles during Indonesia's 2026 Eid exodus is projected to grow significantly, with over 23,000 electric cars expected. To manage this surge, state electricity company PLN is strengthening its public electric vehicle charging station (SPKLU) infrastructure and ensuring reliable power supply during the Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr period from 12-31 March 2026.

Car Free Day in Margonda, Depok Cancelled on 15 and 22 March 2026

The Depok City Transportation Office has suspended the Car Free Day (CFD) programme for two consecutive Sundays—15 and 22 March 2026—to allow residents to focus on preparations for Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah. The decision is based on meteorological data from the Indonesian Meteorological, Climatological and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) indicating that the new moon may not meet visibility criteria to mark the beginning of Shawwal until 21 March 2026.

Indonesia to Shut Down Diesel Power Plants and Replace with Solar Energy in 30 Regions

Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry has identified 30 priority locations to transition from fossil fuel-based power generation, particularly diesel plants, to renewable energy sources, predominantly solar power plants. The initiative, known as the "de-dieselisation" programme, is part of the government's broader 100-gigawatt solar power expansion plan and aims to reduce dependence on imported fuel whilst strengthening energy security amid geopolitical uncertainty. The transition will primarily affect underdeveloped, remote, and frontier regions (3T areas) that currently rely on diesel generators and lack connection to the national electricity grid.

Second Batch of Indonesian Nationals Evacuated from Middle East Arrives Tonight

The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that the second batch of Indonesian nationals (WNI) evacuated from the Middle East conflict zone will arrive in Indonesia this evening. The evacuation involves 34 people being flown in two waves—the first group of 20 is scheduled to arrive at 18:00 WIB today, followed by the remaining 14 tomorrow, with the Indonesian Embassy in Tehran continuing to assess security conditions and maintain communication with remaining citizens in Iran.

Truck accident causes total gridlock at Tanjung Priok Port access

A trailer truck accident caused severe traffic congestion on access routes to Tanjung Priok Port in North Jakarta, with gridlock extending from Pos Sembilan to Jalan Yos Sudarso. Authorities cleared the congestion after evacuating the damaged vehicle, with traffic gradually resuming normal flow. The incident affected hundreds of vehicles including trailers, four-wheeled vehicles, and motorcycles.

Multiple DPR Members Condemn Caustic Acid Attack on KontraS Activist

Several members of Indonesia's House of Representatives have condemned an alleged caustic acid attack on Andrie Yunus, Deputy Coordinator of KontraS, a human rights organisation, which occurred in Jakarta's Salemba district on the evening of 12 March. The attack, which left Yunus with severe burns covering 24 per cent of his body, has been widely interpreted by lawmakers as an attempt to suppress critical voices and silence human rights defenders, prompting calls for a thorough police investigation and the swift apprehension of the perpetrators.

Anti-Corruption Commission to Summon Gus Alex Next Week; Will He Be Arrested?

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has scheduled an interrogation of Ishfah Abidal Aziz (Gus Alex), a former special staff member to ex-Minister of Religion Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, for next week in connection with an alleged hajj quota corruption case. Gus Alex has been designated as a suspect alongside Yaqut, with the case involving an estimated state loss of Rp622 billion, though it remains unclear whether he will be detained immediately as his predecessor was.

Ministry of Industry Assures Domestic Production Meets Eid Demand Surge

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry has confirmed that the domestic textile, clothing, footwear and related sectors are prepared to meet the significant surge in consumer demand ahead of Eid al-Fitr in 1447 Hijriah. Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita highlighted that the textile and garment industry recorded 5.39 per cent growth in 2025, generating exports worth approximately USD 47.95 billion and employing over 3.7 million workers, whilst emphasising the importance of promoting domestic products consumption during Ramadan to support economic growth and worker welfare.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Oversees Distribution of 473 Billion Rupiah in Zakat Funds During Ramadan

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs is overseeing the distribution of 473 billion rupiah in zakat (Islamic charity) funds during Ramadan 1447 Hijriah, targeting approximately three million poor households across 117 districts and municipalities identified as priorities for extreme poverty alleviation. The initiative, known as "Selasar Hangat: Harmoni Lintas Keyakinan Kolaborasi Joyful Ramadan", aims not only to provide charitable assistance but also to promote economic empowerment of recipients, in accordance with Law No. 23 of 2011 on Zakat Management.

Prabowo Requests TNI Vessels Be Deployed to Support 2026 Lebaran Exodus

President Prabowo Subianto has requested that naval and military vessels operated by the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) be made available to support the smooth flow of the 2026 Lebaran exodus. Speaking at a plenary Cabinet session, Prabowo instructed the TNI Commander and National Police Chief to mobilise all available resources and assets to facilitate the return migration period. The President emphasised the importance of ensuring a safe, smooth and joyful homecoming during the festive period whilst maintaining economic momentum.

Free Homecoming Programme by PB IKA PMII Swamped by Registrants

The Central Board of the Alumni Association of the Indonesian Islamic Student Movement (PB IKA PMII) has launched a free homecoming programme ahead of Eid al-Fitr, receiving overwhelming public response with far more registrants than anticipated. The organisation has had to increase bus fleets from the originally planned 4-6 buses to 8 across various routes covering Java, Madura, and Sumatra, with particularly high demand for the Madura route. The programme, managed through Gerakin (National Self-Reliance Movement), aims to facilitate safe and comfortable return journeys for migrants to their hometowns whilst strengthening community solidarity.

Iran Crisis Could Jeopardise BRICS, Why?

BRICS faces credibility concerns after its muted response to US-Israeli military action against Iran, with Russian analyst Fyodor Lukyanov warning that the organisation risks appearing irrelevant if it fails to respond to aggression against member states like Iran. The grouping struggles to balance demonstrating solidarity with Iran whilst avoiding direct confrontation with Washington, particularly as some members such as India and the United Arab Emirates maintain close partnerships with the United States. BRICS remains a loosely organised platform rather than a formal anti-Western bloc, and its effectiveness depends on building flexible networks independent of Western-dominated financial systems.

US-Iran Conflict: National Hajj Commission Says 2026 Pilgrimage Requires Thorough Review

Indonesia's National Hajj Commission has stated that the continuation of the 2026 hajj pilgrimage amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East depends largely on Saudi Arabian government policy. The commission chair emphasised that security and airspace for flights transporting the roughly 221,000 Indonesian pilgrims are critical factors, and that any unilateral cancellation could create administrative, financial, and logistical complications.

Bank Permata Still Seeking Strategy to Comply with 15 Per Cent Free Float Requirement

PT Bank Permata Tbk is actively exploring strategies to meet the Indonesian stock exchange's new 15 per cent minimum free float requirement, with current public shareholding at 9.97 per cent. The bank and its parent company Bangkok Bank are reviewing options including share divestment, rights issues, and other corporate actions to increase public shareholding, though no specific timeline has been set as the regulation is still new.

Anti-Corruption Commission Secures Cash Evidence in Cilacap Regent Arrest Operation

Indonesia's Anti-Corruption Commission (KPK) has secured cash evidence during a covert arrest operation targeting Cilacap Regent Syamsul Auliya Rachman. Twenty-seven individuals, including state officials, civil servants, and private sector representatives, were detained during the operation. The KPK has 24 hours to determine the legal status of those apprehended.

KAI mobilises hundreds of LRT Jabodebek workers to support Lebaran transport operations

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has deployed hundreds of operational staff across the LRT Jabodebek network to ensure safe, reliable service during the 2026 Lebaran holiday period, when public mobility significantly increases. The company will operate 26 train sets with 430 journeys on weekdays and 270 on holidays, supported by 243 front-line service personnel and 527 security personnel from both internal and external sources. KAI has established a 16-day command post from 13-28 March 2026 to oversee operational readiness and service delivery throughout the peak holiday period.

Prabowo States Political Competition Is Not a Problem, but Must Unite Once Concluded

President Prabowo Subianto has stated that he has no issue with differing opinions and political competition, emphasising that such contests occur every five years in local and national elections. However, he stressed that once electoral competitions conclude, the nation must unite and work together, whilst also hinting at plans to address corruption and those who undermine his administration through evidence-based approaches.

US Military Aircraft Crashes in Iraq, Four Crew Members Killed

A US KC-135 refuelling aircraft crashed in western Iraq on 12 March 2026, with four of six crew members confirmed dead and two others subject to ongoing rescue efforts. US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the crash resulted from an incident involving another military aircraft in allied airspace during Operation Epic Fury, a joint US-Israeli military operation against Iran, and ruled out hostile fire or friendly fire as the cause.

Understanding "Preconditioning": A Feature That Makes Electric Vehicles More Battery-Efficient

Preconditioning is a thermal management feature for electric vehicles that optimises battery temperature before charging, allowing energy to be drawn from the charger rather than the vehicle's battery. Experts recommend activating preconditioning whilst the vehicle is connected to a charger, as this process improves charging speed, maximises driving range, and extends battery lifespan by reducing thermal stress.

Police Chief Gives Special Attention Following Acid Attack on KontraS Activist in Jakarta

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has given special attention to the acid attack case involving KontraS Deputy Coordinator Andrie Yunus, who was attacked by an unknown individual in Central Jakarta on 13 March 2026. The police have launched an intensive investigation employing scientific crime investigation methods to identify the perpetrator and motive, whilst the victim remains under intensive hospital care for severe burns.

Adam Malik Hospital ensures optimal service during Eid holiday break

Adam Malik Hospital in Medan has mobilised medical teams and health facilities to maintain optimal service during the Nyepi and Eid al-Fitr 2026 holidays. Emergency services will remain open 24 hours daily, with five on-site specialist doctors deployed and additional specialists on call, whilst full operations resume on 25 March.

Prabowo Praises Disaster Task Force's Hard Work

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed appreciation for all parties involved in disaster relief and recovery efforts across multiple regions, highlighting the rapid response of the government and task forces. The President cited the construction of 218 bridges within approximately two and a half months as an example of the swift and coordinated rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts, praising the dedication of government personnel and field officers working on disaster relief operations.

Second-Phase Repatriation: 34 Indonesian Citizens from Iran to Arrive in Indonesia Today and Tomorrow

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry is conducting a second-phase evacuation of 34 Indonesian nationals from Iran, to be repatriated in two waves arriving today and tomorrow. This follows the first-phase repatriation of 32 Indonesian citizens, as the government continues to monitor security conditions in Iran and assess the situation of remaining nationals there.

KB Bank Appoints New Deputy Chief Commissioner and Two Board Directors

PT Bank KB Indonesia Tbk (BBKP) held an extraordinary general shareholders' meeting on 12 March 2026 to approve strategic changes to its board of commissioners and board of directors. The bank appointed Tae Doo Kwon as deputy chief commissioner and two new directors, Ju Hwan Yi and Yungki Prabowo, bringing combined global and local expertise in risk management, technology, and operations to strengthen governance and accelerate digital transformation.

Airlangga: Without Efficiency, State Budget Deficit Could Reach 4 Per Cent

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has warned that the government will find it difficult to maintain the state budget deficit below 3 per cent of GDP if global instability continues, particularly from potential oil price surges resulting from Middle Eastern conflicts. Government simulations suggest that a 10-month conflict scenario could push oil prices to around $130 per barrel, whilst a five-month conflict would average $90 per barrel, with budget deficits potentially reaching 3.18 per cent of GDP under such conditions.

Deputy Home Minister Ribka Haluk Demands Enhanced Healthcare Services at RSUD Yowari Hospital

Deputy Home Minister Ribka Haluk conducted a surprise inspection of RSUD Yowari Hospital in Jayapura Regency, Papua on 13 March 2026, demanding significant improvements in healthcare service quality. Haluk warned that if no substantial improvements materialise within months, the government may take over the hospital's operations entirely, whilst emphasising that patient rejection is unacceptable for any public healthcare facility.

Prabowo Asks TNI/Polri to Deploy All Resources for Smooth Mudik Operation

President Prabowo Subianto has directed the Indonesian Military (TNI) and National Police (Polri) to deploy all available resources to facilitate the annual mudik (homecoming) exodus during Eid celebrations. The President also instructed the Transport Minister to ensure transportation discounts across all modes—flights, trains, ships, and toll roads—are properly implemented, whilst emphasising quality service standards at rest areas, ports, airports, and stations nationwide.

Can Humans Ever Truly Speak with Animals?

Scientists are increasingly exploring the possibility of cross-species communication, moving beyond fiction to serious research. Projects such as the Cetacean Translation Initiative are studying whale vocalisations and other animal communication patterns that may share linguistic characteristics with human language, whilst domesticated animals like dogs have evolved enhanced abilities to understand human signals through thousands of years of selective breeding.

Prabowo Mobilises All Government Institutions to Ensure Safe and Joyful Eid Exodus

President Prabowo Subianto has directed all ministries and government institutions to ensure the safety and comfort of travellers during the Eid 2026 exodus and return journey, prioritising road safety and service quality. The President issued specific instructions including facilitating discounted transportation fares across all modes, ensuring timely distribution of social assistance to 35 million households, guaranteeing on-time holiday bonuses for workers, and maintaining food price stability. The government has also mobilised military and naval assets to support transport services, whilst the Ministry of Tourism has been tasked with promoting domestic tourism during the Eid holiday period.

Prabowo and Cabinet Ministers Pay Zakat Fitrah at the Palace

President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming, along with nearly all cabinet ministers, paid their zakat fitrah and zakat mal at the State Palace on Friday, 13 March 2026. The ministers made payments using either debit cards or cash, with the ceremony serving as a public demonstration of religious observance by the administration ahead of a Cabinet session scheduled for later that afternoon.

Cilacap Regent Arrested in Corruption Operation, KPK Seizes Cash Evidence

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed the seizure of cash during an anti-corruption operation that detained Cilacap Regent Syamsul Auliya Rachman and 27 others in Central Java. The alleged corruption involves bribery linked to development projects in Cilacap Regency, with an estimated loss to the state of Rp622 billion related to a hajj quota scheme. The KPK has 24 hours under Indonesian criminal procedure law to determine the legal status of those detained, with details to be announced at an official press conference.

Ramadan Aid Distributed to Flood Victims in Aceh Tamiang

A collaborative initiative between health product manufacturer Stimuno and humanitarian organisation Dompet Dhuafa has distributed Ramadan aid to flood victims in Aceh Tamiang district, providing food assistance, iftar meals, and health products to thousands of beneficiaries. The "Improve Immunity, Strengthen Faith" campaign aims to support communities in post-disaster recovery whilst strengthening social solidarity during the Islamic holy month. The assistance includes community kitchens, nutritional support, and herbal health products containing Phyllanthus niruri extract to bolster residents' immune systems during their rehabilitation period.

INDEF: Zakat Nisab Adjustment Necessary Amid Rising Gold Prices

Indonesia's Islamic economy centre has highlighted the necessity of adjusting zakat nisab (minimum threshold) values as global gold prices have surged approximately 86 per cent over the past two years, potentially reducing the number of citizens obligated to pay zakat. The National Zakat Agency has set new income-based zakat thresholds at Rp7.64 million monthly or Rp91.68 million annually, aiming to balance Islamic compliance with sustainable zakat collection.

Prabowo's Message Calls on Indonesian Citizens to Unite: Let Us Save the Republic!

President Prabowo Subianto has called for national unity amongst Indonians amid global crises stemming from conflicts between the United States and Israel against Iran. He emphasised that the presidential election period has concluded and that political differences should not prevent the nation from acting collectively to protect the Republic, describing Indonesia as a single ship that must navigate dangerous waters together.

Transjakarta Corridor 10 Service Disrupted Due to Container Truck Incident

The Transjakarta Corridor 10 bus service between Tanjung Priok and Pesanggrahan Grand Indonesia (PGC) experienced delays on Friday due to a container truck overturning in Cilincing, which disrupted traffic flow to the terminal. Two additional Transjakarta routes—Mikrotrans JAK 113 and Corridor 11D—also implemented alternative routes due to traffic congestion from port loading activities and commercial activity in the North Jakarta harbour area. Transjakarta management apologised for the inconvenience and stated that field personnel were working to restore optimal service levels.

Police Question Two Witnesses Regarding Acid Attack on Human Rights Activist Andrie Yunus

Police have questioned two witnesses in the investigation of an acid attack on Andrie Yunus, Deputy Coordinator of the Commission for Disappeared Persons and Victims of Violence (KontraS), which occurred on 12 March 2026 in Central Jakarta. The authorities are examining digital evidence including CCTV footage to identify the perpetrator, with Indonesian National Police Chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo according the case special attention to ensure thorough investigation. Medical examinations indicate the victim sustained burns to approximately 24 per cent of his body, including his face, hands, chest, and eyes.

China's Foreign and Defence Ministers to Visit Vietnam

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Defence Minister Dong Jun will visit Vietnam on 15 March to strengthen bilateral ties and security cooperation amid concerns about US tariffs and tensions in the South China Sea. The visit aims to deepen strategic coordination between the two countries on political, security, and economic matters, following Xi Jinping's April 2025 meeting with Vietnam's General Secretary To Lam, where they signed 45 cooperation agreements. However, the visit underscores ongoing regional tensions, as Vietnam and other Southeast Asian nations share US concerns about China's assertiveness over disputed maritime claims in the South China Sea.