Archive: 17 March 2026
Showing 551-600 of 1,957 articles
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:37 WIB
Public Complains of Expensive Air Tickets; Ministry of Transport: Not Direct Flights
The Ministry of Transport has attributed rising air ticket prices during the 2026 Lebaran exodus to indirect flight routes, which fall outside the regulatory fare ceiling framework. Officials note that the upper fare limit, set in 2019, has not been adjusted despite significant changes in rupiah depreciation (from Rp14,000 to Rp17,000 per dollar) and increased aviation fuel costs, forcing airlines to apply maximum fares during peak periods.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:37 WIB
Bulog Director Instructs Drivers to Stop if Drowsy Following Free Homecoming Journey Dispatch
PT Perum Bulog's Director General Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani has dispatched 14 buses carrying 709 participants in a free government-sponsored homecoming programme, with strict safety instructions for drivers to halt if experiencing fatigue. The free mudik (homecoming) initiative, which filled its quota within two hours of opening, has transported 116,688 passengers this year—exceeding the initial target of 104,000—demonstrating strong public enthusiasm for the state-owned enterprises' programme ahead of Eid al-Fitr celebrations scheduled for 20-21 March.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:36 WIB
PNM Supports Free Mudik Programme for State-Owned Enterprises 2026
Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM), a state-owned enterprise, has joined the 2026 free mudik (homecoming) programme launched by multiple state enterprises through a flag-off ceremony at Gelora Bung Karno in Jakarta. The initiative aims to facilitate safe, orderly, and comfortable travel for over 116,000 participants returning to more than 200 regencies and cities across Indonesia during the Idul Fitri holiday season. PNM's participation reflects the government's commitment to alleviating the financial burden of transport costs during the mudik season whilst strengthening community bonds and shared values rooted in Indonesian culture.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:36 WIB
Germany and Allies Refuse to Send Warships to Hormuz: "This Is Not Our War"
President Trump has called upon allied nations to deploy naval vessels to the Strait of Hormuz to protect commercial shipping and restore global oil supplies following Iran's closure of the waterway, but has faced widespread rejection from major allies. Germany, the UK, Spain, Japan, and Australia have all firmly declined participation, citing lack of UN or NATO mandates and emphasising that military action against Iran is not a NATO matter.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:35 WIB
Shopping Mall Operators Expect Surge in Visitor Traffic on Second Day of Eid al-Fitr 2026
The chairman of the Indonesian Shopping Centre Management Association has forecast a 10–15 per cent increase in mall visits during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 2026 compared to the previous year, with particularly strong footfall expected on the second day of Eid as families complete celebrations and gather together. Shopping patterns are anticipated to shift towards food and beverage purchases and entertainment during the festive period, prompting shopping centres to prepare themed decorations and cultural events to capitalise on this peak retail season.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:35 WIB
Bank Indonesia Governor Reports Digital Payment Transaction Volume Grew 40.35 Per Cent
Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo announced that digital payment transaction volume reached 4.67 billion transactions in February 2026, representing a year-on-year growth of 40.35 per cent driven by expanded digital payment acceptance. The strong growth was underpinned by a secure, efficient, and reliable payment system infrastructure, with notable gains in QRIS transactions (up 133.2 per cent yoy) and BI-FAST retail transactions (up 31.49 per cent yoy).
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:33 WIB
Cat Hotel in Bekasi Experiences Rush Ahead of Eid, with Bookings Received since January
A cat boarding facility in Jatiasih, Bekasi is experiencing high demand ahead of the 2026 Eid al-Fitr celebration, with some customers booking places for their pets as early as January. The hotel owner, Nia, has capped capacity at 35 to 40 cats and closed bookings two weeks before Eid, whilst also raising service fees to manage the increased workload. The facility maintains strict health protocols, requiring vaccination records and physical examinations to prevent disease transmission during peak season.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:33 WIB
Freeport Indonesia Employees Hold Joint Breaking of Fast, Support 700 Orphans and Underprivileged Children
PT Freeport Indonesia employees organised a joint Iftar (breaking of fast) event across Jakarta, Gresik, and their Papua operations, providing assistance to 700 orphans and underprivileged children from various foundations. The initiative, championed by the company's Islamic Staff Forum and supported by management, exemplifies the firm's commitment to community engagement and social responsibility across its operational areas.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:33 WIB
Musim Mas Group's Ramadan Safari: Sharing Support and Hope with Thousands of Beneficiaries
Musim Mas Group, an integrated palm oil company, has launched its 2026 Ramadan Safari programme, distributing over 9,300 assistance packages and aid to more than 1,000 orphaned children across its operational areas in Sumatra, Central Kalimantan, and West Kalimantan. The annual corporate social responsibility initiative, running from late February to mid-March 2026, includes communal breaking of fasts, distribution of basic necessities, orphan support, and aid to religious facilities as part of the company's commitment to strengthening community relations.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:33 WIB
KPK On Oppo Mobile Phone Auction Selling For Rp59 Million: Winner Has Not Yet Paid
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has clarified details regarding an auction of two Oppo mobile phones that sold for Rp59.723 million, below the reserve price of Rp73 million. KPK spokesman Budi Prasetyo stated that the auction winner has not yet collected the items and remains within the payment settlement deadline. The KPK conducted the auction in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance through the State Assets and Auction Service Office (KPKNL), with all proceeds directed to the state treasury.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:33 WIB
KPK to Summon Travel Agencies and Hajj Operator Associations Regarding Quota Corruption
The Indonesian Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) will re-summon private travel agencies and hajj operator associations as part of its investigation into alleged corruption involving the 2023–2024 hajj quota distribution. The investigation centres on the role of Maktour Travel owner Fuad Hasan Masyhur and former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas in altering the quota distribution scheme, with the estimated state financial loss put at Rp 622 billion.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:32 WIB
Deputy Public Works Minister Inspects Mudik Readiness; JTT Deploys 35 Patching Teams Along Trans-Java Toll Road
PT Jasamarga Transjawa Tol (JTT) is accelerating road preservation efforts along the Trans-Java toll corridor ahead of the Eid mudik exodus, deploying 35 patching teams to address potential pavement damage that could disrupt traffic flow. Deputy Public Works Minister Diana Kusumastuti inspected readiness efforts at rest areas and toll gates, with JTT also implementing stricter parking capacity management and enhanced facilities to prevent congestion during the anticipated surge in vehicle mobility.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:32 WIB
Asset Tokenisation Trading on PINTU Rises 45 Per Cent, Investor Interest Grows
PINTU, an OJK-regulated cryptocurrency investment platform, has recorded a 45 per cent increase in asset tokenisation trading activity in February 2026, driven by expanded access to over 30 global tokenised assets. The platform's users are particularly interested in tokenised stocks of technology giants such as NVIDIA, Apple, and Google, reflecting growing confidence in global digital assets and portfolio diversification opportunities beyond traditional cryptocurrencies.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:31 WIB
Bank Jakarta Provides 20 Buses for Free Mudik Programme by DKI Provincial Government
Bank Jakarta, a state-owned enterprise under DKI Jakarta, has contributed 20 buses to support the provincial government's free mudik (homecoming) programme for Lebaran 2026, bringing the total fleet to 744 buses. The contribution underscores the bank's commitment to supporting government initiatives whilst providing safe and comfortable transportation for residents returning to their hometowns.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:30 WIB
PTP Nonpetikemas Launches Portpress 2026, Invites Journalists to Explore Port's Role in Driving Economic Growth
PT Pelabuhan Tanjung Priok (PTP Nonpetikemas) has launched Portpress 2026, a journalism competition running from March to June 2026, designed to highlight the strategic role of ports in supporting logistics distribution and national economic growth. The competition features two categories—journalistic writing (hardnews and feature) and photojournalism—with a theme focusing on how PTP Nonpetikemas drives logistics across its 11 terminal locations throughout Indonesia. Winners will receive prizes totalling tens of millions of rupiah, with judging occurring in June 2026.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:30 WIB
Japan Displays Long-Range Missile Launcher Ahead of Deployment
Japan's Defence Ministry exhibited an upgraded Type 12 long-range missile launcher and related equipment at a garrison in Kumamoto, marking a significant shift in the nation's defence posture ahead of deployment scheduled for 31 March. The deployment represents Japan's first acquisition of counter-strike capability, a departure from its post-war pacifist constitution, with the missile capable of striking targets up to 1,000 kilometres away. Local officials expressed concern about the lack of prior notification and called for more thorough public communication regarding the placement.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:30 WIB
United States Supports Critical Mineral Processing Project in Indonesia, Here's How It Works
The United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) is funding a pilot project to demonstrate critical mineral processing technology in Indonesia, focusing on lithium extraction from geothermal energy sources through a partnership between California-based Lilac Solutions and Indonesia's state-owned PT Geo Dipa Energi. The initiative aims to diversify US critical mineral supply chains, support Indonesia's lithium independence, and advance responsible geothermal resource development in the Indo-Pacific region.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:29 WIB
KPK Investigates Source of Funds from Regional Heads for Cilacap Regent's 'Holiday Allowance' Allocation
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating the sources of funds provided by regional department heads to fulfil demands from suspended Cilacap Regent Syamsul Auliya Rachman for holiday allowances prior to Ramadan. The KPK has designated Syamsul and Cilacap's Regional Secretary Sadmoko Danardono as suspects in an alleged extortion case, with authorities examining whether the funds originated from government agencies or private companies expecting project contracts in exchange.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:28 WIB
Comfortable Homecoming Journey with State-Owned Enterprises; PNM Facilitates Hundreds of Mudik Participants Without Financial Worries
State-owned enterprise PNM has participated in the 2026 Free Mudik Programme, a government-backed initiative facilitated through a flag-off ceremony at Jakarta's Gelora Bung Karno on 17 March 2026. The nationwide programme has served over 116,000 homecoming travellers heading to more than 200 districts and municipalities across Indonesia, exceeding its target. PNM's involvement reflects the state's commitment to making Eid al-Fitr celebrations more accessible and meaningful for citizens through integrated, inclusive transportation services.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:27 WIB
Government suspends international flights amid Iran conflict escalation
The Indonesian government has formally decided to temporarily suspend all international flight operations as a precautionary measure in response to escalating tensions in the Middle East. State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi confirmed that all international air travel plans are on hold, with no fixed date for resumption until the security situation is deemed safe for national and international carriers. The suspension is a direct response to heightened security concerns in Iran and aims to protect Indonesian citizens from potential risks posed by geopolitical tensions affecting global flight routes.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:26 WIB
The Mystery of Synchronously Flashing Fireflies Finally Revealed
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder have uncovered the mathematical rules behind the remarkable phenomenon of thousands of fireflies flashing in perfect synchronisation at Congaree National Park in South Carolina. Through controlled experiments with LED lights in darkened enclosures, scientists determined that the Photuris frontalis species follows simple rhythmic patterns that allow them to coordinate their bioluminescent displays with extraordinary precision.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:25 WIB
OJK: SMEs Need More Than Just Financing
Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has emphasised that strengthening small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) requires a holistic approach beyond financing alone, including financial literacy, business capacity development, and market access expansion. The regulator highlighted that supply chain financing represents a critical complementary tool alongside traditional credit programmes like KUR, with regulations now mandating financial institutions provide easier, faster, cheaper, and more inclusive credit to SMEs integrated into large corporate supply chains.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:25 WIB
Mudik travellers begin using all toll roads toward Central Java on first day of one-way scheme
Indonesia's traffic police implemented a one-way traffic management scheme on toll roads from kilometre 70 to 263 heading towards Central Java on Tuesday afternoon, with all vehicle types now able to use all lanes in the eastbound direction. The scheme was introduced following a significant increase in traffic flow, particularly on the Trans-Java toll route, with smooth traffic conditions reported throughout the first evening. Only westbound traffic from the Jakarta-Cikampek toll road is permitted to use lanes heading back towards Jakarta under the temporary arrangement.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:25 WIB
BCA's Profit Machine Starts to Falter
PT Bank Central Asia (BBCA) reported net profit of Rp9.23 trillion for February 2026, growing only 2.8% year-on-year, significantly slower than the 8.43% growth recorded in February 2025. The slowdown reflects stagnant net interest income and rising interest expenses, despite continued growth in total assets and credit expansion, signalling limited profitability expansion amid volatile interest rates and liquidity conditions.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:25 WIB
BGN Partners with Attorney General's Office to Oversee School Nutrition Programme Budget Usage Across All Regions
The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has partnered with the Attorney General's Office through its Intellligence Unit to monitor budget allocation for the Nutritional Services Unit (SPPG) across 38 Indonesian provinces, aiming to strengthen oversight of the Free Nutritious Meal Programme. The move seeks to prevent corruption, collusion, and nepotism, whilst ensuring the efficient use of substantial monthly allocations distributed to 25,570 units nationwide, some receiving up to IDR 1 billion monthly.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:25 WIB
Prabowo Orders Swift Investigation into Acid Attack on KontraS Activist Andrie Yunus
President Prabowo Subianto has ordered the National Police to swiftly and objectively investigate an acid attack on Andrie Yunus, deputy coordinator of the Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (KontraS), which occurred in Salemba, Central Jakarta on 12 March 2026. State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi conveyed the President's concern and commitment to a thorough and transparent investigation, with the victim having received medical treatment at the RSCM hospital.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:24 WIB
DPR Member Urges Constitutional Law Amendment on Government Officials' Pensions to be Discussed by Special Committee
A DPR Commission II member has called for the Constitutional Court's decision regarding Law No. 12 of 1980 on government officials' pensions to be discussed by a special committee, arguing the legislation is outdated and requires updating to align with contemporary governance developments. The Constitutional Court ruled the law unconstitutional unless amended within two years, declaring it no longer relevant to Indonesia's current state institutions and structure.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:23 WIB
Ministry of Transportation Explains Reasons for High Airfares
Indonesia's Ministry of Transportation attributes high airfares during peak travel periods to indirect or transit flight bookings, which fall outside the maximum fare ceiling (TBA) designed for direct flights. The ministry notes that the current TBA regulations, established in 2019, do not account for changed economic conditions including increased aviation fuel costs and rupiah depreciation, prompting ongoing discussions with airlines about operational costs.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:23 WIB
Will Prabowo Cut the Salaries of Ministers and Parliamentary Members? State Secretary Responds
President Prabowo Subianto has proposed examining austerity measures including potential salary cuts for government officials and parliamentary members to prevent budget deficits amid Middle Eastern conflict repercussions. State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated the government is still studying the proposal's details, whilst emphasising that domestic fuel supplies remain secure and the administration will lead by example through efficiency measures such as reducing fuel consumption and limiting official vehicle use.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:23 WIB
MBG Halted During Eid Recess, Saving Budget Up to Rp5 Trillion
Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has temporarily suspended the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme during the Eid al-Fitr break, with the school meal component halted since 13 March 2026 and the pregnant and nursing mother packages ceasing distribution on 17 March 2026. The suspension is expected to save approximately Rp5 trillion in government expenditure as part of broader fiscal consolidation efforts amid global economic pressures. The programme will resume distribution on 31 March 2026, and the BGN is collaborating with the Attorney General's Office to prevent misuse and ensure proper implementation of the scheme.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:23 WIB
European Nations Firmly Reject Trump's Call to Deploy Naval Forces to Strait of Hormuz
European Union leaders have collectively rejected the United States' request to deploy naval forces to the Strait of Hormuz, emphasising their unwillingness to become militarily involved in escalating tensions with Iran. Senior EU officials, including Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas and representatives from Italy and Germany, reaffirmed Europe's focus on maritime security and diplomatic solutions whilst ruling out expansion of existing operations to the strategically important waterway.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:22 WIB
Indonesia Must Maintain Growth Momentum Amid Iran War, Says BI Governor
Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo has called for strengthened policy coordination between the government and central bank to maintain Indonesia's economic growth within 4.9 to 5.7 percent amid deteriorating global conditions from the Middle East conflict. First-quarter 2026 growth is projected to remain strong, supported by robust household consumption tied to religious holidays and government incentives, as well as accelerating government investment programmes.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:21 WIB
Gibran urges homebound travellers to monitor their health during peak travel period
Vice President Gibran has advised migrants and homebound travellers, particularly those with children, to carefully monitor their physical condition and take necessary precautions during the peak Eid homecoming period on 18-19 March 2026. He officially launched the free homecoming programme "Mudik Bersama Holding BUMN Danareksa 2026" in Jakarta, sending off 1,900 participants across 14 buses heading to Central and East Java, whilst emphasising the importance of rest, proper nutrition, and road safety amidst expected heavy traffic.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:21 WIB
Why the 2026 Mudik is Key to Regional Economic Growth
The Chief Executive of Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) has expressed optimism that the Lebaran mudik exodus in 2026 will drive increased consumer spending in regional areas, as millions of people travel from major cities back to their hometowns. The bank is targeting double-digit financing growth throughout 2026, with consumer segment financing accounting for approximately 46 per cent of total lending in the fourth quarter of 2025. The executive noted that whilst some consumers are choosing to save their annual holiday allowance rather than spend immediately, this reflects improved financial literacy and represents a positive signal for household financial health.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:21 WIB
Vespa GTS 150 Likely to Receive 180 cc Engine Upgrade
Vespa is signalling plans to introduce a new model with the i-get 180 cc engine following the 2026 updates to the Sprint and Primavera, with the engine upgrade programme to be rolled out gradually across the entire product line. The Vespa GTS 150 is expected to be among the models receiving this engine enhancement, as the company has confirmed that the 180 cc upgrade will extend beyond just the two recently updated models.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:20 WIB
Three Foreign Nationals Arrested Following Pornography Production in Bali, Face Up to 10 Years Imprisonment
Three foreign nationals—two French citizens and one Italian—have been arrested in Bali on charges of producing and distributing pornography after a viral video circulated on social media. The suspects face up to 10 years in prison for production charges and an additional six years for online distribution of pornographic content. This incident reflects Bali authorities' continuing crackdown on inappropriate behaviour by foreign tourists, following previous deportations of influencers and adult film performers for similar offences.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:20 WIB
Prabowo Guarantees Free Nutritious Meals Programme Funds Will Not Be Cut
President Prabowo Subianto has reiterated his commitment to protecting the budget for the free nutritious meals (MBG) programme, Indonesia's flagship initiative, despite calls from Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa for budget cuts to achieve fiscal savings. The President claims that his administration has recovered approximately Rp 308 trillion (US$18 billion) through comprehensive budget auditing and elimination of inefficiencies and waste over his first few months in office, funds which he intends to direct towards the MBG programme.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:20 WIB
Pegadaian Sends Over 4,000 Homebound Travellers to Their Home Villages
Pegadaian, a state-owned financial institution, has launched the "Comfortable Homebound Travel with Pegadaian" programme to assist over 4,000 people returning to their hometowns for Eid al-Fitr. The initiative provides various transportation modes, health checks, and digital financial services to ensure safe and convenient travel during the Ramadan and Eid season.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:19 WIB
TASPEN Strengthens Participant Services Through Collaboration to Stimulate Pension Recipient Growth in Aceh
PT TASPEN (Persero) has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (Persero) Tbk to enhance financial services for pension recipients in Aceh province, particularly for civil servants entering retirement. The partnership aims to improve financial literacy and facilitate access to financial services, with TASPEN currently serving over 139,000 active and retired participants in Aceh, including more than 84,000 through its Lhokseumawe branch.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:19 WIB
Israel Claims to Have Killed Ali Larijani, Yet Iran's Security Chief Posts on X
Israeli Defence Minister Katz claimed that Iran's security chief Ali Larijani has been killed, which if confirmed would make him the second highest-ranking Iranian official to be eliminated after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. However, shortly after the claim, Larijani posted on his X account a tribute to Iranian sailors killed in a recent U.S. attack, casting doubt on Israeli assertions about his death.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:19 WIB
Ministry of Education Distributes Thousands of Children's Books in Cilegon-Serang
The Indonesian Ministry of Education's Language Development and Cultivation Agency has distributed 4,300 free children's books to holiday travellers at Merak Port in Cilegon and Pakupatan Terminal in Serang, Banten, as part of the annual Enjoyable Homecoming Reading Campaign 2026. The initiative aims to promote reading skills, introduce age-appropriate literature to children, and provide engaging literacy activities during the peak holiday travel period.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:19 WIB
Deputy National Police Chief: Traffic Flow at Bakauheni Port Running Smoothly on Eid Eve (H-4)
Deputy National Police Chief Komjen Dedi Prasetyo reported that traffic flow at Bakauheni Port in Lampung was proceeding smoothly on H-4 (four days before) Eid 2026, with no vehicle congestion observed during aerial monitoring. The police force, in close collaboration with the TNI, local government, Basarnas, and ASDP, is implementing Operation Ketupat 2026 with emphasis on coordinated, data-driven management through real-time traffic monitoring via the Siger application to ensure safe and comfortable travel for holidaymakers.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:18 WIB
Counterfeit Currency Worth Rp 12 Billion Seized in Cirebon Ahead of Eid, Police Arrest Suspect
Cirebon police have dismantled a counterfeit currency operation, seizing approximately Rp 12 billion in forged banknotes ahead of Eid al-Fitr 2026. A 52-year-old suspect from Gegesik District was arrested for producing counterfeit 100,000-rupiah notes using sophisticated equipment in his home, with plans to distribute the fake currency across West Java, Bali, Nusa Tenggara Barat, and Yogyakarta before major religious holidays.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:18 WIB
Government Controls Budget Deficit Through Efficiency Measures
The Indonesian government is implementing comprehensive fiscal management strategies to control budget deficits through spending restraint and programme evaluation across all ministries and agencies. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi outlined concrete measures including stricter approval for official travel, particularly overseas trips, and postponement of non-urgent expenditures such as building construction projects. These efforts, coordinated between the State Secretariat Ministry and the Finance Ministry, aim to maintain fiscal health whilst ensuring efficient and targeted use of state budget allocations.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:17 WIB
National Nutrition Agency Director Enlists Attorney General to Oversee Rp 335 Trillion Free Nutritious Meal Programme Budget
The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has partnered with the Attorney General's Office to strengthen oversight of the Rp 335 trillion Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG) budget for 2026. BGN Head Dadan Hindayana announced that 93 per cent of the agency's budget is distributed directly to 25,570 nutrition service units across Indonesia, with additional monitoring mechanisms now involving the Attorney General's field officers in villages to ensure proper utilisation and quality standards. SPPG units that misuse funds or fail to meet nutritional standards face sanctions ranging from temporary closure to permanent shutdown and potential legal prosecution.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:17 WIB
US Media Reports US and Iran Reactivate Direct Communication Channel
The United States and Iran have reactivated direct communication channels in recent days, with US envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi engaging in what appears to be the first known contact between the two nations since the US and Israel launched major strikes against Iran on 28 February. Whilst US officials claim they are not currently negotiating with Iran, conflicting reports suggest discussions are underway, with President Trump acknowledging that Iran seeks a deal but expressing uncertainty about Iran's decision-making structures.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:17 WIB
Commission I of Parliament Values Indonesia's Position in Board of Peace as Palestinian Diplomacy Strategy
President Prabowo Subianto has explained Indonesia's decision to remain in the US-led Board of Peace (BoP) as a means to influence negotiations and advance Palestinian independence. Deputy Chairman of Commission I of Parliament Dave Laksono affirmed this position as a legitimate diplomatic strategy consistent with Indonesia's free and active foreign policy principles, allowing the country to maintain influence on global peace and justice issues whilst refusing to join any military alliances.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:17 WIB
Cabinet Secretary Inspects People's Train and Greets Homeward Travellers at Pasar Senen Station
Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya inspected Pasar Senen Station in Jakarta on 17 March 2026 to assess long-distance railway services, accompanied by Indonesian Railways (KAI) Director Bobby Rasyidin. The inspection revealed significant improvements to the People's Train (Kereta Kerakyatan), including reduced fares from 225,000-250,000 rupiah to 135,000-175,000 rupiah on the Jakarta-Yogyakarta route, whilst facility standards have been upgraded. The Cabinet Secretary expressed satisfaction with the service enhancements and conveyed President Prabowo Subianto's commitment to continuing railway infrastructure improvements across Indonesia beyond Java.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:17 WIB
NasDem Questions Effectiveness of Official Salary Cuts to Save State Budget
NasDem Party Chairman Irma Suryani Chaniago has expressed doubt over President Prabowo Subianto's proposal to cut official salaries as a cost-saving measure to protect Indonesia's budget amid global economic pressures. While acknowledging the political symbolism of the move, she argued that salary cuts would yield minimal savings—approximately 0.02 per cent of the total state budget—and suggested that efficiency measures should instead target large non-essential projects for greater fiscal impact.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 17:17 WIB
National Aviation Fuel Stocks Under Control; Bahlil Urges Fuel Savings
Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has assured that Indonesia's aviation fuel (avtur) stocks remain stable amid escalating global geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding conflicts involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. The government is considering various measures including potential work-from-home policies and fuel conservation initiatives, whilst maintaining fuel subsidies to protect citizens and prevent panic buying. Bahlil emphasised that Indonesia has distinct fuel policies separate from other nations and will adjust subsidies based on fluctuating global oil prices and geopolitical developments.