More than 25,000 workers have not received their legally mandated Hari Raya Holiday Allowance (THR) despite the government deadline having passed, according to the Indonesian Confederation of Workers' Unions (KSPI). The union has named multiple companies, including PT Wiska, PT Rikispotindo, and PT Amos Indah Indonesia, where workers have been denied both THR and regular wages, with some factories seized by workers due to disappeared employers. KSPI is calling for government enforcement action rather than appeals, and has announced demonstrations before Hari Raya and a direct appeal to President Prabowo Subianto.

Indonesian capital market participants emphasise that information transparency is critical for market development and investor confidence as the domestic exchange undergoes transformation. Officials from the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI), the Financial Services Authority (OJK), and parliament's Commission XI stress that consistent communication about market policies and developments, alongside improved governance standards, will help the domestic market compete globally and unlock its substantial regional potential.

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is reviewing the Special Monitoring Board (PPK) at the Indonesia Stock Exchange to address concerns from market participants regarding transaction transparency and speculation. The review will consider enhanced transparency measures, including the disclosure of indicative bid and offer prices, whilst balancing the board's original purpose of revitalising inactive shares.

Indonesia's anti-corruption agency KPK revealed that Fuad Hasan Masyhur, a hajj travel company owner, met with Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas in November 2023 to discuss expanding the special hajj quota beyond eight per cent. KPK subsequently launched investigations in August 2025 into alleged corruption related to Indonesia's 2023–2024 hajj quotas, initially estimating state losses at over Rp1 trillion, later revised to Rp622 billion following an audit by the Finance Inspection Body. Both Yaqut and his aide Gus Alex were named suspects in January 2026, with Yaqut being detained in March 2026 after courts rejected his appeal.

A four-storey garment factory on Tanah Sereal Street in Tambora, West Jakarta, caught fire in the early hours of Friday 13 March 2026, causing the building to collapse and spreading flames to the densely populated residential area nearby, destroying 29 homes and displacing 213 residents. The fire was extinguished after approximately six hours of operations involving 31 fire trucks and 155 personnel, though the building's structural integrity could not withstand the intense heat. A total of 62 evacuees are currently sheltering temporarily at a local mosque whilst authorities assess the full extent of the damage.

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa reported to President Prabowo Subianto in a full Cabinet meeting that Indonesia's economy is far from crisis, contrary to commentary from economists and social media users. The minister cited positive indicators including manufacturing sector improvements, controlled inflation when adjusted for electricity subsidies (2.59 per cent excluding subsidy effects), rising consumer spending, and increased automobile and retail sales, arguing the economy remains healthy for faster growth.

Indonesia's Anti-Corruption Commission (KPK) has arrested Cilacap Regent Syamsul Auliya Rachman and 26 others in an operation targeting alleged bribery related to projects in Cilacap Regency. The operation involved both government officials and private sector figures, with all detainees currently undergoing intensive investigation. The KPK has 24 hours to determine the formal legal status of those detained in the operation.

The Aceh Regional Police (Polda Aceh) distributed five tonnes of rice through a low-cost market programme as part of the National Police Food Movement initiative to support government efforts in maintaining food supply stability and affordable prices for the public. The initiative, launched on Friday at a mosque in Banda Aceh, targeted 500 beneficiaries at the market location, whilst the Community Development Directorate and various police precincts across Aceh distributed an additional 52 tonnes of rice and cooking oil to 3,300 recipients. The effort demonstrates police commitment to food security and strengthens coordination between law enforcement and local government authorities.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) arrested 27 people, including Cilacap Regent Syamsul Auliya Rachman, in a sting operation in Cilacap, Central Java, on 13 March 2026. The arrests are believed to be related to alleged receipt of payments by the regent in connection with projects in Cilacap Regency, with cash being seized as evidence. The KPK has 24 hours to determine the legal status of those arrested.

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has proposed an emergency ordinance (Perppu) to allow flexible adjustments to Indonesia's 2026 state budget amid geopolitical uncertainty, particularly Middle Eastern conflicts driving up crude oil prices. Airlangga presented three deficit scenarios ranging from 3.18% to 4.06%, arguing that maintaining the 3% deficit target is difficult without cutting spending or sacrificing economic growth.

The Indonesian government is preparing a Regulation in Lieu of Law (Perppu) to amend the 2026 State Budget and Expenditure Law due to geopolitical uncertainties, particularly Middle Eastern conflicts affecting global oil prices. According to Economic Coordination Minister Airlangga Hartarto, the budget deficit is projected to exceed the statutory 3% ceiling under multiple scenarios, ranging from 3.18% to 4.06% depending on assumptions regarding crude oil prices, exchange rates, and economic growth.

Cilacap Regent Syamsul Auliya Rachman was arrested by Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) on 13 March 2026 in connection with an alleged hajj quota fraud scheme estimated to have caused state losses of Rp622 billion. The arrest marked a dramatic fall for the relatively new regent, who had assumed office just one year earlier following his inauguration in February 2025. The KPK's latest arrests highlight a concerning wave of corruption charges against regional leaders throughout 2026.

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto presented multiple scenarios to parliament showing how rising global oil prices could push Indonesia's budget deficit beyond the planned 3 per cent limit. Under moderate and pessimistic scenarios involving oil prices ranging from 97 to 115 dollars per barrel and weakening of the rupiah, the deficit could reach 3.53 per cent or higher, potentially requiring spending cuts or new fiscal policy measures.

PT Suzuki Indomobil Sales has expressed optimism about Indonesia's automotive market prospects for 2026, citing early-year increases in commercial vehicle sales as a positive indicator. The company's Suzuki Carry emerged as Indonesia's bestselling vehicle model in February 2026 with 6,554 units distributed—a sharp jump from 549 units in January—with growth partly driven by fleet purchases linked to government programmes including the free nutritious meal scheme (MBG). Suzuki anticipates stable economic conditions throughout the year and has developed new products to stimulate market demand.

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has halted the temporary establishment of new Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) service units in West Nusa Tenggara, citing that current capacity has exceeded the provincial target. With 732 operating service units serving over two million beneficiaries against a target of 1.9 million, the agency plans to redirect expansion efforts towards underserved groups such as the elderly and strengthen quality oversight mechanisms.

President Prabowo Subianto has called on Indonesians to remain calm as the nation navigates global geopolitical uncertainty and economic crises affecting many countries. Speaking at a cabinet meeting at the State Palace on 13 March, Prabowo assured the public that Indonesia retains the capacity to manage the situation and that economic activity must continue. The appeal comes as regional tensions escalate following US and Israeli military operations against Iran, which has resulted in significant casualties and leadership changes.

Indonesia's Anti-Corruption Commission (KPK) apprehended 27 individuals, including Cilacap Regent Syamsul Auliya Rachman, in a sting operation in Cilacap, Central Java. Those detained comprise both government officials and private sector representatives and are currently undergoing intensive interrogation, with the KPK having 24 hours to determine their legal status.

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has reported plans to transfer PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) from BRI's ownership to the Finance Ministry, citing President Prabowo's positive signals on the proposal. The government is calculating financial benefits and coordinating with state investment body Danantara Indonesia to determine the optimal course for improving People's Business Credit (KUR) distribution and UMKM financing efficiency.

President Prabowo Subianto has urged all ministries and government agencies to prioritise safety and thorough preparation for the 2026 Lebaran mudik (mass homecoming). He specifically instructed the Transport Minister to ensure ticket discounts are implemented across all transport modes, whilst ordering improvements to service quality at rest areas, ports, airports and train stations, alongside maintaining stable supplies of fuel, electricity and food.

Police in Depok have arrested a man accused of running a money-doubling and counterfeit currency scheme that defrauded at least three victims with promises of instant wealth through special rituals. The suspect faces charges under the 2023 Criminal Code with a maximum sentence of ten years, and police are investigating whether a wider counterfeit currency network exists behind the fraudulent operation.

As Eid al-Fitr approaches, seasonal vendors proliferate along roadsides across Indonesia, selling religious attire and prayer items such as headscarves, sarongs, and prayer mats. Economic observers note that this informal sector phenomenon demonstrates the agility of Indonesia's informal economy in responding to seasonal demand spikes, which are driven by cultural traditions, increased consumer spending during Ramadan, and the distribution of holiday bonuses—with household consumption accounting for 53–55% of Indonesia's GDP.

Prosecutors have demanded that Sri Purnomo, accused of corruption in the Sleman Regency tourism grants fund case in 2020, pay Rp 10.952 billion in replacement money equivalent to state losses, alongside a prison sentence of 8 years and 6 months. The prosecution argues this represents the proven corruption case, whilst Purnomo's defence lawyer contends the replacement money demand is legally improper since Purnomo allegedly did not personally benefit from the funds.

BPJS Health, Indonesia's national health insurance programme, will maintain operational services during the Eid 2026 holiday break, with 126 branch offices open for limited hours on select dates and 24-hour services available through digital channels. The announcement includes guidance for participants seeking medical care during mudik (holiday travel) and introduces new mandatory health history screening requirements beginning 6 March 2026.

PT Bank KEB Hana Indonesia has distributed charitable assistance to orphaned children and outsourced workers through its annual Ramadan Alms Programme (SederHana). The bank donated funds to Yayasan Guru Kita Gusti Hamlet, a social and educational foundation supporting orphans and elderly women in need, whilst also providing financial education activities and food packages to beneficiaries and outsourced staff.

Bogor Police have renovated their integrated checkpoint at Gadog with a Middle Eastern "Aladdin" theme during Operation Ketupat Lodaya 2026 to provide a more welcoming experience for Eid holiday travellers. The facility, staffed by 331 police personnel, offers relaxation areas, children's play spaces, electric vehicle charging, prayer facilities, and health services to combat driver fatigue along the busy Puncak route in West Java.

Indonesia's Culture Minister has proposed transforming the defunct Indarung I Cement Plant in Padang into a cultural venue for exhibitions and theatrical performances, recognising its historic significance. The plant, operated for nearly 90 years until 1999 and now designated as national cultural heritage, has gained UNESCO recognition for its role in industrial development and multicultural workforce. The minister emphasised collaborative efforts between government, regional authorities, PT Semen Padang, and communities to revitalise the site as an educational and cultural space.

Indonesia's National Economic Council Chair Luhut B. Pandjaitan disclosed intelligence suggesting Iran has developed underwater drone technology capable of threatening shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and potentially reaching American territory. Luhut characterised the conflict as increasingly technological in nature, with Iran demonstrating sophisticated mobile launch capabilities despite US efforts to destroy its weapons production facilities.

A fire broke out at a textile workshop in West Jakarta's Tanah Sereal district in the early hours of Friday morning, injuring five firefighters during extinguishing operations. The blaze spread across an estimated 1,000 square metres, displacing 231 people from 58 households, with firefighting efforts involving 31 units and 155 personnel.

President Prabowo Subianto presided over a Cabinet Plenary Session at the State Palace on 13 March 2026 to discuss preparations for the 2026 Eid holidays. He instructed the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and National Police (Polri) to assist in securing the mudik (homecoming) travel period, whilst urging the Transportation Ministry to implement ticket discounts and ensure food assistance reaches 35 million beneficiary families on time.

Tangerang mayor Sachrudin has stated that the city's zakat potential reaches approximately Rp2.2 trillion, which could become a powerful economic instrument to combat poverty and strengthen public welfare if optimally managed. The National Zakat Board (Baznas) of Tangerang city is targeting Rp6.9 billion in zakat collections during Ramadhan through strategic initiatives and public engagement, whilst the mayor emphasised the importance of channelling zakat through sustainable empowerment programmes rather than short-term aid.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has called for BRICS to play a constructive role in promoting stability and security in the Middle East, following recent military confrontations between Iran and the US-Israel alliance. The statement comes after Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in a US-Israel operation on 28 February, with Iran retaliating against Israeli territory and American military facilities in the region.

Indonesia's National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has ordered a special investigation into an alleged caustic chemical attack on Andrie Yunus, Deputy Coordinator of the Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (KontraS), which occurred in Jakarta's Salemba area on 12 March 2026. The incident is being investigated as aggravated assault under Indonesia's revised Criminal Code, with police employing scientific crime investigation methods to identify the perpetrator and motive.

Indonesia's Ministry of Environment and Forestry (MOEF) has referred two steel manufacturers, PT PSI and PT PSM, to the Tangerang District Prosecutor's Office for allegedly dumping hazardous waste without proper permits and failing to manage hazardous and toxic materials (B3) appropriately. Following investigations and waste sample testing that revealed strong evidence of environmental crimes, the companies have been designated as corporate suspects, with the case materials, evidence samples, and equipment transferred for further legal proceedings.

Ahmad Yani International Airport in Semarang is warning of potential flight disruptions due to severe weather during the Lebaran transport operation period from 13 to 30 March 2026. The airport has coordinated with meteorological and air navigation authorities to prepare supporting facilities and minimise operational disruptions.

Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, Chair of the National Economic Council, stated before President Prabowo that Iran will not be easily subdued despite attacks from the United States and Israel, characterising the conflict as a battle of technology and spirit. Luhut noted that whilst US and Israeli operations have degraded Iran's air defence and capacity, and destroyed much of Iran's drone manufacturing infrastructure, Iran has adapted by deploying cheap drones that can be launched from multiple locations and employing mobile launch systems.

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian conducted an inspection of Merak Harbour in Banten on 13 March 2026 to assess preparations for the 2026 Lebaran exodus, accompanied by several senior government officials and security chiefs. The government targets a safe, smooth, and comfortable migration period, with the exodus expected to begin around 18 March and the return journey on 29 March, and officials hope travellers will spread their journeys across multiple days to avoid congestion.

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has postponed the Developing Eight (D-8) Summit scheduled to take place in Indonesia this year in response to the ongoing Middle East conflict. The Director General of Multilateral Cooperation stated that whilst no de-escalation has been observed, all member states have accepted the postponement and a new date will be determined at a later stage. The delay does not affect Indonesia's status as D-8 Chair, with preparatory activities continuing as planned through the end of Indonesia's tenure on 31 December.

Andrie Yunus, deputy coordinator of KontraS human rights organisation, was attacked with caustic liquid by two unidentified assailants on a motorbike in central Jakarta on 12 March 2026, suffering burns covering 24 per cent of his body. The incident was captured on CCTV and police have launched a full investigation, with KontraS alleging the attack is an attempt to silence human rights defenders and calling for comprehensive law enforcement action.

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has warned President Prabowo Subianto that various scenarios stemming from potential Middle Eastern conflict between Iran, the United States and Israel could push Indonesia's 2026 budget deficit beyond the 3% statutory limit. Multiple simulation scenarios show the deficit could reach between 3.18% and 4.06% of GDP, depending on crude oil prices rising to between US$86 and US$115 per barrel, currency movements, and other economic variables.

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has informed President Prabowo Subianto that various scenarios involving potential Iran-US-Israel conflict in the Middle East could push Indonesia's 2026 budget deficit beyond the legal maximum of 3% of GDP. Simulations show that depending on oil prices ranging from US$86 to US$115 per barrel and currency fluctuations, the deficit could reach between 3.18% and 4.06% of GDP, making it difficult to maintain the statutory 3% ceiling without cutting spending or economic growth.

Head of Indonesia's National Economic Council Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan briefed President Prabowo Subianto on the economic impacts of Middle Eastern conflicts, particularly regarding the ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States-Israel coalition. Luhut characterised Iran as an Aryan nation difficult to subdue and noted that whilst US-Israeli "Operation Fury" has successfully destroyed some of Iran's air defences, the number of Iranian missiles being deployed has declined significantly, with technology and artificial intelligence increasingly playing a critical role in the regional conflict.

Malaysia's government fuel subsidy expenditure has surged over four-fold to approximately US$813 million (RM3.2 billion) per month due to escalating global oil prices amid the Iran war, with petrol subsidies reaching RM2 billion and diesel subsidies RM1.2 billion monthly. Despite the significant fiscal burden, the government will maintain current subsidised fuel prices and has implemented precautionary spending controls including energy conservation measures, restricted official travel, and a review of work-from-home arrangements. Finance Minister Amir Hamzah stated that Malaysia remains in a strong fiscal position to absorb these costs due to prior reforms, though he acknowledged the conflict may persist for an uncertain period.

Indonesia's National Economic Council Chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan has expressed optimism that any closure of the Hormuz Strait by Iran will be temporary, as Iran has economic interests in reopening the critical waterway. Despite current volatility in the region, shipping traffic for oil and fuel products through the strait is improving, though ship insurance costs remain elevated due to regional concerns.

Conversion of petrol-powered motorcycles to electric motorcycles is being considered as a means to accelerate vehicle electrification in Indonesia, but industry experts argue that clear technical and safety standards are essential for safe implementation. Without standardised specifications for battery, controller, and cable installation across workshops, converted electric motorcycles pose significant safety risks, and a formal regulatory framework is needed to ensure compliance and consistency.

President Prabowo Subianto has directed Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi to ensure the successful implementation of discount policies on various transport modes used for Lebaran homecoming travel, including aircraft, trains, ships, and toll roads. The president also instructed officials to improve service quality at rest areas, ports, airports, and stations, whilst ensuring stable supplies of fuel, electricity, and internet connectivity, as well as maintaining stable food supply and prices ahead of the second Lebaran celebration of his administration.

Indonesia's Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has criticised a heated debate featuring influencer Abu Janda that descended into insults and profanity on iNews's "Rakyat Bersuara" programme, arguing it violates Broadcasting Law No. 32 of 2002 and undermines public broadcasting standards. The commission highlighted that despite the programme's late-night slot, children can still access it and stressed that broadcasters must uphold ethical standards in line with new government regulations protecting children from harmful digital content.

The US Dollar Index (DXY) surged past 100 to 100.131 on Friday 13 March 2026, whilst the Indonesian rupiah weakened 65 points to Rp 16,958 per dollar. Currency analyst Ibrahim Assuaibi attributed the rupiah's weakness to external factors including oil price spikes following Iran's new leader Mojtaba Khamenei announcing the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which carries one-fifth of global oil and gas supplies, and internal concerns about potential US Federal Reserve rate adjustments if inflation rises.

Indonesian police have launched a formal investigation into the alleged caustic soda attack on Andrie Yunus, Deputy Coordinator of KontraS (Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence), which occurred in Central Jakarta on 12 March 2026. Authorities are conducting digital forensic analysis of CCTV footage, interviewing witnesses, and have obtained preliminary medical assessments showing the victim sustained burns to his chest, face, and hands. The case has been classified as aggravated assault under the new Indonesian Criminal Code, with police vowing to identify and apprehend the perpetrator swiftly.

The Gilimanuk-Ketapang ferry ports will close during the Nyepi Day celebrations on 19 March 2026 as authorities prepare for the expected surge in exodus travel to Bali coinciding with Eid al-Fitr. The government has arranged alternative logistics routes and prepared port facilities across Indonesia to accommodate approximately 143.9 million travellers, with Surabaya's Gapura Surya Nusantara port alone expecting 287,000 passengers, a five per cent increase from the previous year.

Indonesia's Trade Minister Budi Santoso stated that whilst the Iran-Israel conflict has not reduced demand from the Middle East, exporters face significantly increased logistics costs due to geopolitical escalation. Statistical data from the Central Bureau of Statistics reveals Indonesia's substantial trade flows with three strategic Middle Eastern nations positioned along the critical Strait of Hormuz—Iran, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates—which facilitate approximately 20 per cent of global oil consumption and 20-25 per cent of international liquefied natural gas trade.