Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 13 March 2026

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OJK Opens Possibility of Approving "Free Float" 15 Percent after Ramadan

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) plans to push through approval of amendments to Regulation I-A by the end of March 2026, with approval potentially issued after the Ramadan break. The key modification includes raising the minimum free float threshold for listed companies to 15 percent as part of market deepening efforts. The regulation also strengthens corporate governance requirements for directors, commissioners, and audit committees of listed companies.

Toll Road Officially Opens Free of Charge, Medan-Lake Toba Journey Now Feels Much Shorter

PT Hutama Marga Waskita (Hamawas) has officially opened the Sinaksak-Simpang Panei toll road segment (12.55 kilometres) free of charge on 13 March 2026 to support the Eid al-Fitr 2026 exodus and return traffic. The toll road, part of the larger Kuala Tanjung-Tebing Tinggi-Parapat (KUTEPAT) corridor, significantly reduces travel time to Lake Toba and enhances logistical distribution across North Sumatra whilst boosting regional economic growth and connectivity.

Former Sleman Regent Sri Purnomo Sentenced to 8.5 Years' Imprisonment

The prosecution has sought an 8 year and 6 month prison sentence and a 500 million rupiah fine against Sri Purnomo, former regent of Sleman regency, for alleged corruption involving tourism grants in 2020. The prosecution deemed Purnomo not guilty of the primary charge but found him guilty of the subsidiary corruption charge, seeking restitution of approximately 10.95 billion rupiah in state losses, with the defence to present its case after the Eid holidays.

Central Java's Integrated Eid Travel Post Begins Operations

Central Java's provincial government has officially launched an integrated Eid travel post that will operate from 13-30 March 2026 to coordinate and support the annual mass exodus to hometowns during Eid al-Fitr. The post will function as a command centre for monitoring emergency situations such as traffic congestion, accidents and natural disasters, with up to 17.7 million travellers expected to pass through the province this year. Personnel from various agencies will operate 24-hour shifts whilst over 350 community safety volunteers will assist in remote monitoring areas.

Prabowo's Directive on 2026 Homecoming: Calls for TNI and National Police Involvement

President Prabowo Subianto has issued directives for the 2026 Lebaran homecoming period, calling on all parties to ensure the smooth functioning of this traditional migration. His instructions, delivered during a Cabinet meeting on 13 March 2026, encompass transportation discounts, military and police asset mobilisation, rest area quality standards, and stable supply chains for fuel, electricity, food, and internet connectivity.

National Police Chief Prioritises Investigation into Caustic Acid Attack on Human Rights Activist

National Police Chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo has given special attention to the investigation into a caustic acid attack on Andrie Yunus, Deputy Coordinator of the Commission for the Disappeared and Victims of Violence (KontraS). Two unknown assailants on a motorcycle attacked Yunus on 23 March whilst he was riding his motorcycle in Central Jakarta, causing severe burns to approximately 24 per cent of his body, particularly his eyes. Police have initiated a formal investigation under articles 467 and 468 of the 2023 Criminal Code, with backing from Metro Jaya Police and the National Police Criminal Investigation Unit.

Prabowo Opens Full Cabinet Session, Cabinet Secretary Presents Government Achievement Video

President Prabowo Subianto convened a Full Cabinet Session at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on 13 March 2026, where Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya presented a video showcasing the government's recent achievements. The video highlighted the completion of 218 bridges across Indonesia within 2.5 months and the renovation of over 16,000 schools within one year, with Prabowo praising the swift response of the Bridge Development Task Force in disaster-affected areas.

Pegadaian Initiates Formation of Indonesia Bullion Market Association

PT Pegadaian and eleven other domestic gold and logistics sector companies are initiating the formation of the Indonesia Bullion Market Association (IBMA), scheduled for official launch in June 2026. The association aims to strengthen Indonesia's gold market ecosystem, improve market governance, and support the government's Asta Cita programme by enhancing value-added activities in gold production and domestic circulation.

Merak Port Call for Additional Berths to Tackle Long Queues

Seventy-two ferry vessels operate on the Merak-Bakauheni route, but only 28 can operate simultaneously due to insufficient berthing facilities, with seven existing berths accommodating just four vessels each. The head of the Association of River, Lake and Strait Transport Operators has called on the government to add at least three new berths to handle growing passenger and logistics traffic, which increases 10-12 per cent annually.

Governor Bobby Raises Salary of Part-Time PPPK Teachers in North Sumatra to Rp2 Million

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has approved salary increases for part-time PPPK (Government Employees with Work Agreement) teachers and temporary teachers, raising part-time PPPK teacher salaries from Rp500,000–Rp1 million monthly to approximately Rp2 million monthly. The initiative, which includes holiday allowances and aims to improve teacher welfare, is part of the governor's priority to enhance education quality and attract better teacher performance in the province.

Former Supreme Court Secretary Nurhadi Ordered to Pay Rp137.1 Billion Restitution

Nurhadi, former Secretary of Indonesia's Supreme Court, has been ordered by prosecutors to pay Rp137.1 billion in restitution for allegedly receiving gratifications and committing money laundering offences. If he fails to pay within one month after a final court decision, his assets will be seized and auctioned to recover state financial losses, or he faces an additional three-year prison sentence.

Royal Enfield Opens Opportunity for Motorcycle Assembly in Indonesia

Royal Enfield, the Indian two-wheeler manufacturer, is considering local motorcycle assembly operations in Indonesia amid growing premium motorcycle market demand. The company's regional manager indicated that all current products are imported as completely built-up units (CBU) from India, with any local assembly decision dependent on market development and sales volume potential. Thailand already operates a completely knocked-down (CKD) assembly facility for Royal Enfield in the region.

Tax Revenue Surges 30.4% in February 2026, Driving Sector Identified

Indonesia's tax revenue reached Rp245.1 trillion by 28 February 2026, representing a 30.4% year-on-year increase driven by robust economic activity and particularly strong growth in Value Added Tax and Luxury Goods Tax, which surged 97%. The government is accelerating spending to support Q1 2026 economic growth, with major initiatives including the Free Nutritious Meals programme reaching 61.6 million beneficiaries and disbursing Rp44 trillion, whilst manufacturing, trade, finance and insurance, and mining sectors continue to account for 74% of total tax revenue.

President distributes zakat at State Palace

President Prabowo Subianto distributed zakat contributions to the National Zakat Collection Board (Baznas) at the State Palace in Jakarta on Friday afternoon, alongside Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and cabinet ministers. The zakat distribution was followed by a full Cabinet meeting chaired by the President to discuss government preparations for Eid al-Fitr 2026 and disaster management efforts in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra.

Trump Claims Iran's New Leader Mojtaba Khamenei Wounded in US-Israeli Attack

US President Donald Trump has stated his belief that Iran's newly elected Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei sustained injuries in a late-February attack by the United States and Israel that killed his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Whilst Mojtaba has not made a public appearance since his selection as Supreme Leader, he released a written statement vowing to keep the Strait of Hormuz closed and calling on neighbouring countries to expel US military bases or face Iranian retaliation.

Police Will Arrest Perpetrator of Acid Attack on Andrie Yunus

Indonesia's National Police have pledged to thoroughly investigate and arrest the perpetrator of an acid attack on Andrie Yunus, deputy coordinator of the Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (KontraS), which occurred in Jakarta on 12 March 2026. The police are receiving support from multiple units and have already interviewed two initial witnesses, with the investigation focusing on identifying the attacker from evidence at the crime scene.

Jasamarga Deploys 101 Tow Trucks and 574 Personnel for 2026 Eid Holiday Travel on Trans Java Toll Road

PT Jasamarga Transjawa Tol is preparing comprehensive operational measures for the 2026 Eid holiday exodus, deploying 101 tow trucks and 574 on-call personnel across the Trans Java toll road network. The company anticipates a 74.83 per cent increase in traffic volume through Cikampek North Gate, reaching approximately 1.03 million vehicles between 11 and 31 March 2026, and has mobilised 244 maintenance teams to ensure road infrastructure readiness.

WIKA Realty Welcomes Eid with Hotel and Residential Promotions Including 0% Down Payment

PT Wijaya Karya Realty (WIKA Realty) has launched special promotional packages for the Eid 2026 holiday season, offering discounted hotel stays across multiple properties and residential properties with attractive financing schemes. The housing promotions include 0% down payment options, subsidised mortgages from Rp 2 million monthly, free KPR fees, and limited-time prizes including electric motorcycles and iPhones, targeting holiday travellers and homebuyers seeking financing flexibility.

Seven-Year Scheme: Online Gambling Boss Concealed Betting Business Through Computer Consulting Company

The West Jakarta District Prosecutor's Office has transferred seized assets worth Rp 530.4 billion from a major online gambling syndicate operated by Oei Hengky Wiryo to the state treasury, following a seven-year investigation. The syndicate used a shell company, PT A2Z Solusindo Teknologi, ostensibly engaged in computer trade and consulting, to launder proceeds from at least 14 illegal gambling websites. The mastermind was arrested in 2025 after authorities traced the flow of player deposits through affiliated bank accounts.

Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arrested by KPK While Charging Electric Vehicle Late at Night

Inactive Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq recounted his arrest by KPK investigators on suspicion of corruption in project procurement, stating he was detained whilst charging his electric vehicle at midnight. The KPK has seized multiple vehicles and alleges that Fadia's family company PT Raja Nusantara Berjaya received Rp 46 billion in contracts from 2023 to 2026, with Fadia accused of being the beneficial owner and receiving approximately Rp 5.5 billion in distributions.

Cilacap Official Caught in KPK Sting Operation: Regent Syamsul Auliya Rachman

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) conducted a sting operation (OTT) in Cilacap, Central Java, with Cilacap Regent Syamsul Auliya Rachman among those arrested. KPK Deputy Chairman Fitroh Rohcahyanto confirmed the arrest on Friday 13 March 2026, though specific details regarding other suspects and the alleged offences remain undisclosed. The KPK has 24 hours to determine the legal status of those arrested, who currently remain under investigation.

Corruption Commission: Yaqut ordered Gus Alex on 2024 hajj quota since November 2023

The Indonesian Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) alleges that former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas ordered his special staff, Ishfah Abidal Aziz (Gus Alex), to distribute an additional 20,000 hajj quotas for 2024 beginning in November 2023, with preliminary investigations indicating state losses exceeding Rp1 trillion. Both Yaqut and Gus Alex were named as suspects in January 2026, though Yaqut filed a pre-trial motion that was rejected; Yaqut was subsequently detained in March 2026 after the KPK confirmed state financial losses of Rp622 billion from the scheme.

Minister vows pensions to secure future of high-achieving athletes

Indonesia's government is accelerating a pension fund programme for high-achieving athletes to ensure they can live prosperous lives after retirement, alongside new scholarship and training initiatives. The minister emphasised that supporting athletes requires collaboration with the private sector, whilst highlighting the sports industry's significant economic potential, currently valued at approximately Rp625 billion and growing at eight per cent annually.

BMKG: Parts of North Sumatra Prone to Rain on Saturday

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecasted that most areas of North Sumatra face potential light to moderate rainfall on Saturday, 14 March. BMKG warns the public to remain vigilant against moderate intensity rain in western slopes, mountainous areas and eastern slopes of North Sumatra, as it could trigger hydrometeorology-related disasters such as flooding and landslides.

Rismon Sianipar Apologises to Jokowi; PSI Hopes Others Will Also Repent

Rismon Sianipar, a defendant in the case alleging that former Indonesian President Joko Widodo's diploma is counterfeit, has apologised to Jokowi and the public, with PSI secretary-general Raja Juli Antoni expressing hope that other defendants will follow suit. Sianipar clarified his research findings during a meeting with Jokowi in Solo, stating that after further examination of the diploma, he found only watermarks and embossing, not holograms, which he attributed to UGM's practices at that time rather than evidence of forgery.

GoTo and Transport Ministry facilitate free homecoming travel for thousands of Gojek drivers to five destinations

PT GoTo Gojek Tokopedia Tbk has partnered with the Ministry of Transport to provide free homecoming travel (GoMudik programme) for approximately 4,000 Gojek driver partners and their families to five destinations including Kuningan, Semarang, Surabaya, Lampung, and Palembang. The initiative, launched at Pulogebang Terminal in Jakarta, reflects the government's strategy to organise passenger mobility during the peak homecoming season whilst supporting gig economy workers. GoTo has also expanded worker protections by providing free BPJS Health and Employment Insurance since December 2025, alongside scholarship programmes and business development initiatives for driver partners.

BPJS Health Establishes Eight Mudik Posts for Eid 2026

Indonesia's BPJS Kesehatan (health insurance agency) has set up eight health service posts across major transport hubs to serve travellers during the 2026 Eid holiday mass exodus (mudik). The posts, operating from 13-18 March 2026, will provide free healthcare services, basic medications, medical consultations, and information about the national health insurance programme at strategic locations including toll rest areas, ports, and terminals.

Prepare Yourselves! Diesel Power Plants in These Regions to Be Shut Down and Replaced with Solar Power

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) plans to replace diesel power plants (PLTD) with solar power plants (PLTS) across the nation's underdeveloped, remote and frontier regions (3T) as part of a broader de-dieselisation programme. The government has identified over 30 priority locations, including Simeulue, Nias, Mentawai and Enggano, to transition from fossil fuel-based power generation to renewable energy sources, supporting a larger 100 Gigawatt solar energy initiative across Indonesia.

PPI Sells Buffalo Meat for Rp72,000 per Kilogram in Depok Cheap Food Movement

PT Perusahaan Perdagangan Indonesia (PPI) participated in the National Food Agency's Cheap Food Movement in Depok, West Java, selling subsidised staple commodities including buffalo meat at Rp72,000 per kilogram ahead of Lebaran. The initiative aims to ensure food availability and affordability for the general public through direct distribution, with PPI planning further participation in Bogor and Jakarta throughout March 2026.

KPK Arrests Cilacap Regent as Third Sting Operation in Ramadan 1447

The Indonesian Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested Cilacap Regent Syamsul Auliya Rachman in its ninth sting operation (OTT) of 2026, marking the third such arrest during Ramadan 1447 AH. The arrest brings the total number of significant corruption cases to eight prior operations in 2026, including several regional officials and government employees accused of bribery, extortion, and misappropriation of public funds across multiple Indonesian provinces.

Legislator: Pointless to Have Police Force if Unable to Solve Activist Acid Attack Case

A deputy chairman of Indonesia's parliamentary Commission XIII has criticised police for failing to apprehend the perpetrator of an acid attack on Andrie Yunus, vice-coordinator of human rights advocacy group KontraS, which resulted in 24 per cent burn injuries. The legislator characterised the attack as an attempt to silence critical voices and human rights defenders, and warned that the credibility of law enforcement would be questioned if the case remains unsolved.

Netherlands understands US-Israel attacks on Iran but does not support them

The Dutch government stated on Thursday that it "understands" the rationale behind US and Israeli attacks on Iran but does not support the military actions, viewing them as outside the framework of international law. The position reveals significant divisions within Dutch parliament and the governing coalition, with right-wing parties backing the strikes whilst left-wing parties urge the Netherlands to distance itself from the conflict and warn of escalation risks similar to the 2003 Iraq invasion.

55 Hazardous Points on Bandung Railway District Identified, KAI Deploys Mitigation Measures for 2026 Eid Travel

PT Kereta Api Indonesia has identified 55 hazardous points across the Bandung railway district (Daop 2), which records the highest concentration of accident and natural disaster risks in Indonesia. To manage the 2026 Eid travel season, KAI is implementing enhanced monitoring protocols at these vulnerable locations, deploying 150 additional staff members and deploying 28 daily train services, with peak passenger traffic expected on 15 March 2026.

Cilacap Regent Syamsul Auliya Rachman Arrested in KPK Sting Operation, Brought to Jakarta

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) arrested Cilacap Regent Syamsul Auliya Rachman in a sting operation on Friday 13 March 2026 and transported him to Jakarta's KPK headquarters. The KPK's Deputy Chairman Fitroh Rohcahyanto confirmed the arrest but declined to disclose the specific corruption allegations or evidence seized during the operation.

Garment Factory Building Fire in Tambora Displaces 62 Residents, Injures 5 Firefighters

A garment factory building in Tambora, West Jakarta caught fire early Friday morning (13 March 2026), destroying approximately 1,000 square metres and affecting 213 residents from 58 households. The blaze spread rapidly from the first to third floor, and during firefighting operations, five firefighters were injured by falling debris when the building collapsed, whilst a sixth was injured falling from a ladder.

Former Supreme Court Secretary Nurhadi Sentenced to Seven Years Imprisonment in Money Laundering Case

Nurhadi, the former secretary of Indonesia's Supreme Court, has been sentenced to seven years imprisonment and fined Rp500 million in connection with corruption and money laundering charges involving alleged gratification totalling Rp137.1 billion. Prosecutors also seek replacement funds of Rp137.16 billion, with the case marking a second conviction for Nurhadi following a six-year sentence in 2021 for receiving bribes and gratification valued at approximately Rp49.5 billion.

Prabowo Leads Red and White Cabinet in Zakat Payment at Palace

President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka led the entire Red and White Cabinet in paying zakat (Islamic alms) at the State Palace in Jakarta on 13 March, channelling payments through the National Zakat Agency (Baznas). Prabowo emphasised that zakat payments reflect mutual cooperation and serve as a manifestation of social justice aimed at reducing income inequality and poverty in Indonesia.

Indonesia's Rice Stocks Hit Record High, Police and Bulog Guarantee Food Security Until 2026

Indonesia's national rice stocks have reached a record high of approximately 3.9 million tonnes in March 2026, with projections to exceed 4.3 million tonnes by the end of the month. The Indonesian National Police (Polri) and the State Logistics Agency (Bulog) have partnered to distribute 80,000 tonnes of rice and tens of thousands of kilolitres of cooking oil monthly to ensure food price stability and accessibility across the nation, supporting the government's food self-sufficiency initiative.

Zone 4A of Bantargebang TPST Closed, Waste Truck Queue Stretches for 8 Kilometres

The Jakarta Provincial Government has closed Zone 4A of the Bantargebang Transfer Station (TPST) following a landslide on Sunday 8 March, causing severe traffic congestion as waste trucks queue for approximately 8 kilometres along roads in Bekasi, West Java. The extended queue has resulted in significant disruption to solid waste transportation services in the Greater Jakarta region.

Message from Gus Yahya to Yaqut's Supporters: We Are Ready to Answer for This Before Allah

Yahya Cholil Staquf, chairman of Nahdlatul Ulama's central board, issued a message regarding the legal case affecting his brother and former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, who was detained by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) on Thursday evening, 12 March 2026. Gus Yahya expressed belief that all actions will be accounted for before Allah and appealed to supporters gathered at the KPK to return home peacefully, emphasising that justice must be pursued through proper legal procedures.

Diesel Power Plants on Outer Islands to be Replaced with Solar Generation

The Indonesian government plans to discontinue diesel-powered electricity generation and replace it with solar power generation across more than 30 locations nationwide, with priority given to remote eastern regions including islands such as Simeulue, Nias, Mentawai, and Enggano. This initiative forms part of the government's broader 100-gigawatt solar capacity expansion plan and aims to reduce reliance on diesel-based power generation in underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost regions not yet connected to the main grid.

President Prabowo and Vice President Gibran Pay Zakat Mal and Zakat Fitrah at State Palace

President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, alongside the entire Red and White Cabinet, fulfilled their obligations to pay zakat mal (asset charity) and zakat fitrah (obligatory almsgiving) at Merdeka Palace on Friday, 13 March 2026, in coordination with the National Zakat Board of the Republic of Indonesia. The ceremony saw the participation of all cabinet ministers and deputy ministers demonstrating the government's commitment to Islamic religious observance during the holy month of Ramadhan.

Struggling Earnings Push Online Taxi Drivers to Embrace Free Homecoming Programme

Thousands of ride-hailing drivers in Indonesia are taking advantage of free homecoming (mudik) programmes offered by ride-sharing applications as their daily earnings continue to decline. Drivers report daily income dropping to as low as 150,000-200,000 rupiah due to traffic congestion, unfavourable fare structures, and increased use of food delivery orders, making the free travel assistance a vital relief during the holiday season.

Bandung Metropolitan Police Deploy 1,627 Personnel for Eid al-Fitr 2026 Security

The Bandung Metropolitan Police have mobilised 1,627 combined personnel for Operation Ketupat Lodaya 2026 to secure the homecoming rush and celebrate Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah. Personnel will be stationed at one integrated post, 16 security posts, and six service posts across strategic locations throughout Bandung city to ensure safe, orderly, and smooth conditions during the holiday period.

Basarnas Bali Deploys 140 Personnel at Vital Points for Eid Exodus 2026

Ahead of the 2026 Eid holiday exodus (mudik), Indonesia's National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) in Bali has formally commenced a special alert operation deploying 140 personnel equipped with advanced search and rescue equipment across strategic points including major ports and the airport. The 17-day operation from 13–30 March 2026 aims to ensure public safety amid predicted heavy rainfall and high tides, with personnel positioned at key exit points including Gilimanuk, Padangbai, Benoa, and Celukan Bawang ports.

Former Religion Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas Detained by Anti-Corruption Commission

Indonesia's Anti-Corruption Commission (KPK) has formally detained former Religion Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas in connection with a corruption case involving Hajj quota allocation. According to his asset declaration filed with the KPK in January 2025, Qoumas reported a net wealth of IDR 13.74 billion, predominantly comprising real estate holdings valued at IDR 9.52 billion across properties in Rembang Regency and East Jakarta.

Ministry of Creative Economy Drives Enhancement of Digital Talent in Creative Sector

Indonesia's Ministry of Creative Economy, led by Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya, is collaborating with three digital associations and KADIN's Digital Ecosystem Board to strengthen digital talent development in the creative sector as a new engine for national economic growth. The collaboration aims to align government programmes with industry initiatives across talent development, technology innovation, market access, and funding schemes. Minister Harsya presented eight creative economy pillars (ASTA EKRAF) and discussed strengthening digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, and cross-sector collaboration to support sustainable digital transformation.

Additional Facilities Prepared to Manage Congestion on Prambanan-Purwomartani Tollway

PT Jasamarga Jogja Solo is preparing enhanced operational facilities on the Prambanan-Purwomartani tollway to manage increased vehicle traffic during the 2026 Lebaran exodus period. The company plans to double staffing levels and deploy mobile transaction readers to double transaction processing capacity at toll gates. Operations will be situational and subject to police discretion, with temporary closures possible if weather conditions or safety concerns warrant.

KontraS Reveals Descriptions of Acid Attack Suspects Against Andrie Yunus

The Coordinator of the Working Body of KontraS (Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence), Dimas Bagus Arya, has disclosed details of two male suspects who allegedly carried out an acid attack on KontraS Deputy Coordinator Andrie Yunus on the evening of 13 March 2026. The assault left Yunus with severe burns on both hands, face, chest and eyes, and he was rushed to hospital for emergency medical treatment. Police have confirmed the incident and launched scientific investigations to identify the perpetrators, though the victim has not yet filed an official report.

Debottlenecking Session Addresses Ammonium Nitrate Import Licences and Batam Project

Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa chaired the fifth debottlenecking session to address regulatory and investment obstacles facing businesses across various sectors. Key issues discussed included delayed import permits for ammonium nitrate used in medical gas production, SNI certification delays affecting three companies, and land-use recommendation issues for PT Galang Bumi Industri's strategic national project in Batam.