Indonesia's Minister for Women Empowerment and Child Protection Arifah Fauzi has stressed the importance of ensuring digital technology and artificial intelligence are used safely and responsibly for children. The government is supporting a joint decree from seven ministers establishing guidelines for the use and learning of digital technology and AI across formal, non-formal, and informal education, aiming to maximise benefits whilst minimising risks to children and adolescents.

Residents of Pramuka Island in Jakarta's Thousand Islands regency have called for cheap food bazaars to be held monthly rather than occasionally, as essential goods are significantly more expensive in the islands. Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung attended a recent bazaar where 1,000 basic food packages were distributed at Rp 50,000 each—roughly half the normal retail price—prompting residents to request the initiative become a regular monthly programme.

Domestic cryptocurrency market participants are currently in a holding pattern as they monitor the direction of US monetary policy and Federal Reserve interest rate decisions in response to US inflation data. With US inflation at 2.4 per cent in February 2026, market sentiment remains relatively stable, though the crypto market is moving defensively whilst awaiting clarity on the Fed's next policy moves, with market expectations showing a 99 per cent probability of unchanged rates in March.

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) and Bank Indonesia have launched a new currency exchange service at Solo Balapan railway station on 13 March 2026 to help long-distance train passengers prepare for Eid celebrations. The service operates from 09:00 WIB with a maximum exchange limit of Rp 5.3 million per person in predetermined denominations, available exclusively to passengers with tickets matching the exchange date.

One year into its establishment, Indonesia's Danantara institution faces scrutiny over whether it can facilitate the economic transformation the nation requires. Despite two decades of steady growth averaging 5 per cent annually and controlled inflation, Indonesia's economy remains dependent on commodities and domestic consumption, with manufacturing contribution stagnant at 19 per cent of GDP and significant inequality in access to financing, technology, and infrastructure. The World Bank estimates Indonesia requires investment of 35–40 per cent of GDP (currently 30–32 per cent), with McKinsey projecting an additional 600 billion US dollars needed over the next two decades to drive inclusive, transformative growth.

President Prabowo Subianto has appointed lawyer and Gerindra Party politician Hendarsam Marantoko as Director General of Immigration at the Ministry of Immigration and Repatriation (Imipas), bypassing an open recruitment process that was underway. The open selection for the position, which had three leading candidates including acting director Yuldi Yusman, has been halted following the presidential decree, with Marantoko expected to be inaugurated in early April.

A study by researchers at Oxford University has discovered that rising environmental temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius influence the declining ratio of male to female births, with heat exposure increasing the risk of early-stage male foetal death. The research, which analysed over five million births across 33 sub-Saharan African nations and India, reveals that climate change impacts not only the environment but also human reproductive health and future population composition, with implications for gender balance and family planning decisions particularly affecting vulnerable populations.

PT Kereta Api Indonesia recorded 45,382 passengers departing Jakarta by train on H-8 Lebaran 2026 (13 March), marking an increase from previous days and indicating rising holiday travel demand. Pasar Senen station handled the highest volume with 18,657 departing passengers, whilst KAI is providing over 1 million long-distance seats nationally and offering up to 30 per cent discounts on economy class fares during the period to support government economic stimulus efforts.

A CNBC Indonesia economist warns that regional conflict leading to disruptions at the Strait of Hormuz and broader supply chain shocks will drive global oil and food prices higher, threatening to increase Indonesian inflation and strain the state budget through rising fuel subsidies and import costs. The weakening rupiah and capital flight towards safer assets further compound the risks to Indonesia's economic growth and financial stability.

A man identified as LE has been arrested in Depok for allegedly posing as a shaman and defrauding residents through a purported money-doubling ritual scheme. According to the Pancoran Mas Police Chief, one resident has filed a report, and the suspect is undergoing investigation to determine the full extent of the fraud.

The Anti-Corruption Commission (KPK) is conducting detailed calculations to determine the exact amount of bribes received by former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas in connection with the misallocation of additional hajj quotas. The alleged corruption scheme, which caused an estimated loss of Rp622 billion to the state, involved the improper distribution of 20,000 additional hajj places and has resulted in Yaqut's detention as investigators identify co-suspects and examine witness testimonies.

The Indonesian government's Ministry of Communication and Digital (Kemkomdigi) has deployed a task force in collaboration with mobile operators XLSMART, Telkomsel, and Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison to monitor telecommunications services during the Ramadan and Lebaran period from 13–29 March 2026. Monitoring posts will be stationed at major transportation hubs including airports, train stations, ports, and rest areas to ensure service quality for millions of Indonesians travelling during the holiday season.

PT Bukalapak.com Tbk recorded a profit of IDR 3.1 trillion for 2025, reversing a loss of IDR 1.5 trillion from 2024, driven by consolidated revenue growth of 46% year-on-year to IDR 6.5 trillion. The e-commerce platform's Gaming segment emerged as the largest revenue contributor, supported by stronger marketing strategies and increased transaction activity, whilst the Investment segment through B-Money showed robust momentum with 39% quarter-on-quarter revenue growth.

The Chinese Consul-General in Surabaya, Ye Su, presented Ramadhan assistance packages comprising food and basic necessities to Islamic organisations in East Java, including Nahdlatul Ulama, Muhammadiyah, and Ansor, as a gesture of solidarity from the Chinese government and people towards Indonesian Muslims. The initiative aims to strengthen interfaith and bilateral relations between China and Indonesia, with the Consul-General highlighting the presence of approximately 20 million Muslims in China, including Uyghur communities in Xinjiang. The head of East Java's Nahdlatul Ulama chapter welcomed the aid as beneficial for underprivileged communities ahead of Eid al-Fitr.

PT BRI Asuransi Indonesia has launched a financial literacy initiative called Gerakan Nasional Cerdas Keuangan (GENCARKAN) targeting university students and the broader public to increase understanding of insurance protection and benefits. The programme, held at Universitas Ciputra in Surabaya, drew over 500 participants and forms part of BRI Insurance's commitment to supporting the Financial Services Authority's financial literacy and inclusion objectives across Indonesia.

Indonesia's hospitality, restaurant and catering (HORECA) sector achieved potential transactions worth USD1.41 million (Rp23.79 billion) at the SIRHA Budapest 2026 trade fair in Hungary, with the Indonesian pavilion attracting over 27,000 visitors. The accomplishment reflects strong demand for Indonesian food and beverage products across Central and Eastern Europe, with seven Indonesian businesses—including five micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs)—participating in the exhibition.

Pulogebang Terminal in East Jakarta is experiencing increased traffic as mudik (homecoming) travel intensifies ahead of Lebaran. Terminal management projects the peak exodus will occur on Tuesday, 17 March 2026, coinciding with the start of public holidays and school break, with daily passenger counts already reaching nearly 3,000 travellers transported by hundreds of buses.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) will summon Ishfah Abidal Aziz (Gus Alex), a special aide to former Religion Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, next week as a suspect in a corruption case involving the additional hajj quota for 2023-2024. The case involves alleged fees of USD 4,000-5,000 per pilgrim charged by the government through Gus Alex, with the state reportedly suffering losses of approximately Rp622 billion. Both Gus Alex and Yaqut have been named as suspects, with Yaqut already detained for 20 days as the KPK investigation progresses.

A 4-year-old boy identified as F from Sumedang, West Java, became the focus of social intervention after he was discovered scavenging for recyclables in East Jakarta with his grandmother whilst his father faced legal proceedings. The East Jakarta Metro Police Chief, in collaboration with local social services, coordinated the child's return to his mother in Sumedang, with commitments to ongoing cross-regional monitoring and support to safeguard the child's welfare and future.

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry predicts a 9–10 per cent increase in exodus passengers using ferry services during the 1447 Hijri Eid celebration compared to the previous year, with 5.7 million passengers expected overall and 1.3 million passengers and vehicles anticipated through the main Java–Sumatra route between Merak and Bakauheni ports. The state-owned operator has prepared 70 vessels for the Java–Sumatra crossing, with 50 deployed on the Merak–Bakauheni route, and is expanding operations through alternative ports including Ciwandan, Bandar Bakau Jaya Bojonegara, and Krakatau Bandar Samudera to manage the anticipated surge.

The United States has issued a temporary general licence permitting the purchase of Russian crude oil already in transit at sea, as part of efforts to stabilise global energy supply and pricing amid geopolitical tensions. The measure applies specifically to approximately 124 million barrels of Russian oil stranded at sea across 30 global locations as of March 2026, equivalent to five to six days of global oil supply. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent characterised the policy as a limited, short-term measure designed to address temporary price volatility caused by Middle Eastern tensions and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

President Prabowo Subianto will convene a cabinet meeting at the Jakarta Presidential Palace on Friday (13 March 2026) at 4:00 PM to discuss preparations for Eid al-Fitr 1447 H/2026 M. The meeting will be preceded by a zakat (almsgiving) payment ceremony by cabinet members to the National Zakat Board at approximately 3:00 PM, with the President having previously engaged ministers including those overseeing energy, food coordination, and finance on readiness matters.

The Indonesian Anti-Corruption Commission (KPK) has uncovered systematic corruption in the allocation of hajj quotas at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, with former Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas as the primary suspect. The misallocation of 8,400 additional quotas—which should have gone to regular pilgrims under Law No. 8 of 2019—caused delays for thousands of prospective pilgrims and resulted in state losses of Rp622 billion. The scheme involved illegally converting regular hajj quotas into special hajj quotas, which were then distributed to special hajj operators and used as commodities, enabling newly registered pilgrims to depart immediately upon payment whilst long-waiting pilgrims were disadvantaged.

President Prabowo Subianto is holding a full cabinet session at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Friday, 13 March 2026, with all cabinet members, deputy ministers, agency heads, and presidential advisors in attendance. The meeting will address government preparedness ahead of Eid al-Fitr, preceded by a zakat (alms) payment ceremony at the National Zakat Board. This marks the second full cabinet gathering of 2026, following a previous retreat in Bogor on 6 January where Prabowo reportedly urged ministers to accelerate their work pace.

A landslide at Bantargebang Waste Processing Centre (TPST) in West Java on 8 March prompted the DKI Jakarta provincial government to close zone 4A of the facility, causing a severe backlog of rubbish trucks. The resulting queue extended approximately eight kilometres along major roads in Bekasi on 13 March, disrupting traffic and leaving truck drivers stranded for extended periods.

The Indonesian government has officially announced the joint leave schedule for Eid al-Fitr 2026, with communal holidays falling in March around the Islamic and Hindu observances. The joint leave days are 20, 23, and 24 March 2026, coinciding with the Nyepi (Balinese New Year) celebrations and the Eid holiday period, creating an extended long holiday from 18 to 24 March.

Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry has officially opened a National Command Post to monitor and coordinate energy services during the 2026 Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr period, operating for 20 days from 12-31 March. Deputy Energy Minister Yuliot Tanjung confirmed that fuel oil and liquefied petroleum gas supplies are adequate for the holiday season, with Pertamina stationing 7,885 petrol stations, 40 LPG terminals, and additional support services across high-demand regions. The facility will provide centralised information on fuel availability, electricity supply, and geological disaster alerts while maintaining 12-15 days of LPG stock reserves throughout the period.

Bima City in West Nusa Tenggara has officially declared a measles outbreak following a significant surge in cases. The local health authority reports 361 suspected cases, with nine children currently hospitalised across multiple facilities, though no deaths have been recorded and most cases have recovered.

Hong Kong authorities have launched an investigation into suspected insider trading involving two securities companies and one hedge fund, resulting in the arrest of eight people in the largest enforcement operation against the financial industry in recent years. The investigation, conducted jointly by the Securities and Futures Commission and the Independent Commission Against Corruption, centres on allegations that a hedge fund owner offered bribes exceeding HK$4 million to obtain non-public information about planned share sales, which was allegedly used to profit through short selling positions worth approximately HK$315 million.

Two articulated lorries collided on Jalan Kapuk Kamal Raya in Penjaringan, North Jakarta on Thursday 12 March 2026 at approximately 22:00, resulting in the death of one driver at the scene. The accident occurred when the first lorry, unable to climb a steep gradient, reversed and struck the second articulated lorry travelling behind it; authorities have opened an investigation into the precise circumstances of the crash.

The Ministry of Social Affairs and Ministry of Villages jointly conducted a socialisation campaign in Serang, Banten to promote the updated Integrated Socio-Economic Data (DTSEN), targeting village officials, neighbourhood administrators, and community health and women's group cadres. The government emphasises that accurate and integrated socio-economic data is crucial for ensuring targeted social assistance reaches the intended beneficiaries.

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Jakarta Regional Operations deployed 721 security personnel across departure stations and strategic points to ensure safety during the 2026 Eid transport season from 13 March to 1 April. The security force comprises 150 railway police, 456 security officers, and 115 personnel from TNI and national police, with initial figures showing 45,382 passengers departing on the first day of operations.

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has identified 16-20 March 2026 as the most popular dates for passengers traveling home for Eid celebrations from Jakarta, with 18 March seeing the highest departure numbers. The state railway operator has prepared over 1.076 million seats across the 22-day Eid travel period, with bookings already reaching 681,000 tickets representing 63 per cent of capacity. KAI is operating 12 additional trains from Gambir Station and seven from Pasar Senen Station to accommodate the anticipated surge in passenger numbers.

Motorola, once dominant in the foldable phone market with its iconic RAZR V3, is making a remarkable comeback and now commands 50% market share in foldable phones in the United States, outpacing early entrants Samsung and Google. The company is preparing to launch the Razr Fold, a book-format foldable device with flagship specifications, as it faces intensifying competition from Apple and other established rivals.

Former technology consultant Stefani Nadia testified in a corruption trial that she heard Nadiem Makarim, when he was Education Minister, express a vision to create technology dependency as part of an irreversible education reform. The testimony emerged during a Chromebook-related corruption case at Jakarta's Corruption Court, with prosecutors presenting Nadia's examination report regarding a 2019 meeting with Nadiem before he became minister.

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has launched a nationwide Cheap Food Movement (GPM) in partnership with state-owned logistics firm Perum Bulog, distributing 1,337 tonnes of rice and other essential foodstuffs to assist citizens affected by rising commodity prices ahead of the Eid holiday. Deputy National Police Chief Komjen Dedi Prasetyo stated that the initiative, coordinated by 36 provincial police forces and approximately 500 district police units across Indonesia, aims to ensure national food security and price stability. The distribution includes rice, sugar, cooking oil, flour, and other staples at affordable prices, with Metro Jaya Police targeting around 3,000 beneficiaries from various sectors including labourers, online ride-hailing drivers, and community organisations.

The Directorate General of Taxation (DJP) reported that 7,723,526 annual Personal Income Tax (PPh) returns have been filed as of 12 March 2026, with the majority from employee taxpayers. Account activations on the new Coretax administration system have reached 16,146,343 taxpayers across various categories.

Lebanon's Social Affairs Minister reported that 816,000 people have been displaced as a result of ongoing Israeli military operations, with approximately 126,000 currently sheltered in 589 designated centres across the country. The Health Minister stated that the death toll from the attacks has risen to 634 people, including 91 children and 47 women, with an additional 1,586 injured, whilst medical facilities have suffered 22 attacks since the escalation began in early March.

Indonesia's Defence Ministry has reached an agreement with India to acquire the BrahMos supersonic missile system as part of military modernisation efforts, with reports indicating a deal value of US$450 million. The missile system, developed jointly by India and Russia, offers high precision, Mach 2.8-3 speed, and 290-500 kilometre range capabilities. Defence analysts suggest the acquisition supports Indonesia's coastal defence strategy amidst regional geopolitical tensions, though concerns remain regarding crew training and vehicle maintenance protocols.

A major fire broke out at a shop-house in Tambora, West Jakarta on 13 March 2026, destroying approximately 1,000 square metres and affecting 58 households (213 people) across two residential zones. The blaze, believed to have been triggered by an electrical short circuit in a garment factory machine, claimed no lives but left five firefighters and two civilians injured, with residents temporarily relocated to a prayer house.

The Indonesian Anti-Corruption Commission (KPK) has scheduled the summoning of Isfan Abidal Aziz (Gus Alex), a former special staff member to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, for the following week after the detention of former Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas. Both are suspects in an alleged corruption case involving the manipulation of additional hajj quota distribution that is estimated to have caused state losses of Rp622 billion.

Commission VIII of the Indonesian House of Representatives has formally approved a Bill to amend Law No. 34 of 2014 concerning Hajj Finance Management as a House initiative, with the aim of ensuring more transparent, fair, and proportional distribution of benefits to pilgrims. The revised legislation is now classified as a national legislative priority and seeks to strengthen governance of hajj funds whilst preventing allegations of mismanagement that have long troubled worshippers.

Indonesia's National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has announced comprehensive traffic engineering measures and security preparations for the anticipated homecoming surge during the 2026 Eid holiday (Idul Fitri 1447 Hijri). Operation Ketupat 2026 will deploy 161,243 personnel across 2,746 security and service posts for 13 days (13-25 March 2026), with the government expecting 143.9 million people to travel during the holiday period, with peak flows anticipated on 15-16 March and 18-19 March.

The Indonesian parliament's Legislation Committee has unveiled plans to draft a Single Data bill aimed at optimising the utilisation of national data for planned development. The bill, initiated by the DPR, seeks to activate and harmonise data across government ministries, with Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad citing recent disasters in Aceh and North Sumatra where inconsistent data between ministries hampered humanitarian assistance efforts.

Indonesia's National Police Chief (Kapolri) and the Minister of Coordinating Affairs for People's Welfare (Menko PMK) conducted an aerial inspection of Merak Port using a helicopter to assess preparations for the 2026 Eid holiday exodus and return journey. The inspection includes reviewing security readiness, conducting coordination meetings, inspecting ferries, and engaging with travellers. The initiative is part of Operation Ketupat 2026, aimed at ensuring smooth transport operations and safety during the holiday period.

The Deputy Chair of the House of Representatives' Commission IX has criticised proposed government regulations limiting maximum nicotine and tar content in tobacco products, arguing the restrictions could devastate Indonesia's tobacco industry and displace millions of workers. The policy, part of Government Regulation No. 28 of 2024 implementing the 2023 Health Law, risks eliminating employment and tax revenue whilst disproportionately impacting small and medium-sized enterprises and hand-rolled clove cigarette manufacturers.

The Bekasi Metro Police Department plans to launch a free vehicle storage service for residents travelling home for Eid 2026, allowing those using public transport to safely leave their vehicles at police headquarters or traffic posts. The service requires documentation including vehicle registration, driving licence, and identification copies for administrative purposes. Police officials are also urging motorists to ensure their vehicles are in safe condition before undertaking the journey.

Indonesia's government is distributing Rp442 billion in zakat alms through the Tebar Harapan Ramadhan (Spreading Hope in Ramadan) programme, leveraging collaboration between 184 zakat institutions and 234 philanthropic organisations. The initiative targets impoverished communities in 168 districts across eight provinces and disaster-affected regions, aiming to strengthen social solidarity and empower communities beyond temporary relief.

Indonesia's Ministry of State Apparatus Empowerment and Bureaucratic Reform (PANRB) has stated that approximately 160,000 to 166,000 civil servants retire annually, including throughout 2025 and into 2026, necessitating new recruitment. The government plans to conduct civil service candidate (CASN) recruitment to fill these positions through CPNS and PPPK formations, though the timing remains uncertain pending budget discussions with the Finance Ministry. Despite current overstocking of 6.5 million civil servants from 2024 recruitment, gaps persist in critical areas such as teaching and healthcare professions.

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia announced that the Indonesian government is examining various alternatives to conserve fuel consumption in response to global energy supply disruptions caused by the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict. While the government has not yet made any definitive decisions, it is exploring efficiency measures similar to those being implemented by other Asian nations, including work-from-home policies. Vietnam has already implemented drastic fuel conservation measures, including mandatory remote work and reduced allocations for government fuel consumption.