Archive: 17 March 2026
Showing 951-1,000 of 1,957 articles
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 15:01 WIB
Students of Aceh Besar Public School Distribute Free Breaking-of-Fast Meals
Students and staff at Sekolah Rakyat Menengah Atas (SRMA) 1 Aceh Besar organised a Ramadan community initiative distributing free takjil (breaking-of-fast meals) to passing residents, demonstrating social responsibility and fostering empathy. The activity, which included religious instruction and communal iftar (breaking of fast), reflects the school's commitment to character building and community engagement, with leadership expressing hopes for it to become an annual tradition.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 15:01 WIB
Electric Motorcycle Batteries Banned from Apartments; Manufacturers Respond
Apartment and vertical housing managers are increasingly banning electric motorcycle batteries from units due to fire hazard concerns. Indomobil Emotor CEO Pius Wirawan clarified that not all lithium batteries pose the same risks, distinguishing between NCM batteries (more sensitive to heat and impact) and safer LFP alternatives, whilst calling for building managers to establish dedicated charging areas to address resident needs safely.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 15:00 WIB
Gus Alex arrested by the Corruption Eradication Commission, following former Religious Affairs Minister
Ishfah Abidal Aziz, known as Gus Alex, a former special staff member to the Religious Affairs Minister, has been arrested by Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) as a suspect in a hajj quota corruption case alongside former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas. The KPK investigation, launched in August 2025, has determined that state losses from the alleged corruption in the 2023-2024 hajj quota allocation total approximately Rp622 billion.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 15:00 WIB
BGN suspends two nutrition service units run by person claiming to be minister's grandchild
Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has suspended two foundations operating Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) in Ponorogo, East Java, after their heads reported being pressured and intimidated by operators claiming familial ties to a government minister. The suspension follows inspections revealing mismanagement, facility inadequacies, manipulated food procurement, and severe infrastructure failures, with the agency confirming the alleged ministerial connection is fraudulent.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 15:00 WIB
Beef Prices in Sukabumi Continue to Soar, Reaching Rp150,000 Per Kilogramme
Beef prices in Sukabumi, West Java, have surged to Rp150,000 per kilogramme as of four days before Eid al-Fitr 2025, with further increases expected as the holiday approaches. Monitoring by the city's Trade and Industry Office attributes the price rises to increased demand and volatile weather conditions, though rice and chicken prices remain stable and overall food supply continues to meet public demand.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 15:00 WIB
Do Not Get It Wrong: Understanding 7 Types of Land Certificates and Their Legal Strength
This article explains seven types of Indonesian land certificates and their legal significance, clarifying that not all land certificates are equal. The most important distinctions include ownership rights, permitted uses, and duration of validity, ranging from the strongest form (Sertifikat Hak Milik) reserved exclusively for Indonesian citizens to limited-term rights such as Sertifikat Hak Guna Bangunan, which permits development on non-owned land for a maximum of 30 years.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 15:00 WIB
Beware Severe Traffic Jams! Peak Mudik Traffic to Merak Predicted Tomorrow
Traffic volumes on toll roads from the Jakarta metropolitan area towards Merak have already begun increasing as the mudik (homecoming) exodus commences, with 48,217 vehicles recorded through Cikupa toll gate on Monday—a 3.33% increase from normal traffic levels. Jasa Marga predicts the peak mudik traffic flow will occur the following day (Wednesday, 18 March 2026), with further volume increases expected. The toll operator urges travellers to prepare their vehicles, ensure adequate fuel and e-toll balance, and use consistent electronic payment cards to avoid congestion-related payment issues.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:59 WIB
Komnas HAM actively monitors condition of Andrie Yunus
Indonesia's National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) is actively monitoring the condition of Andrie Yunus, a victim of acid attack, at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital in central Jakarta. The commission has conducted multiple visits to coordinate with the victim's family and ensure optimal medical treatment, with the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) covering hospitalisation and medical costs.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:59 WIB
Central Bank Maintains BI Rate at 4.75 Per Cent
Bank Indonesia has decided to hold its benchmark interest rate (BI Rate) steady at 4.75 per cent at its March 2026 policy meeting, maintaining the deposit facility rate at 3.75 per cent and the lending facility rate at 5.75 per cent. The decision aims to strengthen the rupiah's stability amid deteriorating global conditions from Middle Eastern conflict, whilst supporting inflation targets and economic growth objectives. BI Governor Perry Warjiyo stated that the central bank will continue optimising monetary policy instruments and supporting credit growth to the real sector whilst maintaining financial system stability.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:59 WIB
Task Force Head Urges Local Governments to Expedite Census of Disaster Victims for Permanent Housing
Tito Karnavian, head of the Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Acceleration Task Force, has called on regional governments to speed up the data collection process for disaster victims who will occupy permanent housing units. The task force is implementing two housing schemes: an in-situ model where residents rebuild on their own land with government assistance of approximately 60 million rupiah, and a communal model where housing is developed in new residential complexes, with local governments required to provide suitable land for the developments.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:59 WIB
Bandung Transport Authority Urges Mudik Travellers to Avoid Peak Hours on Nagreg Route
Bandung's Department of Transportation has advised homebound travellers to avoid peak traffic hours on the Nagreg Route, particularly during afternoon and evening hours. The authority predicts the heaviest exodus traffic will occur on Friday, 20 March (the day before Eid), though it expects congestion to be less severe than previous years due to effective traffic management and extended public holidays allowing travellers to spread their journeys over multiple days.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:58 WIB
Village Chief of Hoho in Banjarnegara Assaulted; Central Java Police Professional Standards Unit Steps In
The Central Java Police Professional Standards Unit (Propam) has launched an investigation into allegations of assault against village chief Hoho Alkaf of Purwasaba in Banjarnegara, who claims to have been beaten by NGO members following a second village apparatus selection hearing on 11 March. The village chief has filed a complaint against the local police chief at the hearing, alleging biased conduct, whilst police leadership claims the situation remained controlled with no violence occurring.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:58 WIB
Government Works Hard to Ensure Safe and Smooth Homecoming Travel
The Indonesian government has mobilised multiple ministries and agencies to ensure safe and efficient homecoming travel (mudik) during the Eid season, with President Prabowo directing efforts on transport discounts, food security, and worker benefits. Despite preparations, congestion has been reported at the Ketapang-Gilimanuk crossing due to high traffic volume, prompting officials to apologise and intensify monitoring. The government aims to coordinate transport, social assistance, and food supply measures to facilitate smooth travel and stimulate economic sectors during the period.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:58 WIB
LLDikti Region V Strengthens Commitment to Enhancing Lecturer Qualifications at Private Universities
The Higher Education Services Institute (LLDikti) Region V has formalised partnerships with Bank BPD DIY and Bank BSI to support doctoral study programmes for lecturers at private universities, providing combined funding of Rp 300 million for five selected lecturers. This initiative aims to address the national shortage of doctorate-qualified lecturers, with Yogyakarta Special Region currently at 27 per cent against a national target of 30 per cent. The collaboration represents a strategic effort to strengthen the competitive position of higher education in Indonesia through enhanced human resource development.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:58 WIB
Kang DS: Viking Majalaya Football Supporters' Social Action Becomes Inspiration for Community
Bandung Regent Dadang Supriatna has praised the Viking Blue Line Majalaya football supporters' community for distributing aid to orphans and elderly residents during Ramadan, demonstrating how sports fan communities can become a significant social force. The regent emphasised that this charitable initiative exemplifies the mutual cooperation and solidarity values important to Bandung Regency's society and urged other communities and youth organisations to follow this positive example. The action reflects broader efforts to foster social harmony and community engagement across the district.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:57 WIB
Bank Indonesia Cuts Reporting Threshold for Dollar Transactions to Support Rupiah Stability
Bank Indonesia has strengthened foreign exchange reporting requirements by reducing the threshold for mandatory supporting documentation on outbound foreign currency transfers from USD 100,000 to USD 50,000, effective April 2026. Governor Perry Warjiyo announced the measure alongside other foreign exchange policy adjustments, including reductions in cash foreign exchange purchase thresholds and increases in derivative transaction limits, all aimed at stabilising the rupiah's exchange rate.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:57 WIB
KPK Detains Gus Alex as Suspect in Hajj Quota Corruption Case
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Ishfah Abidal Aziz, known as Gus Alex, a former special staff member to Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, on suspicion of corruption related to hajj quota fees. KPK officials allege that Gus Alex played a dominant role in collecting accelerated hajj service fees from special hajj operators, leveraging his position as a ministerial representative to effectively relay orders.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:57 WIB
Consumer Survey Shows AQUA as Leading Choice for Environmentally-Friendly Bottled Water
A recent consumer survey by World Visualized found that AQUA has the highest environmental responsibility score (50.3%) among Indonesian bottled water brands, with consumers increasingly valuing sustainability credentials when choosing products. The research highlights that reusable water gallons significantly reduce plastic waste and carbon emissions compared to single-use packaging, supporting Indonesia's goal to reduce plastic waste by 30% in 2025.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:57 WIB
BNI Adds Rp10 Trillion in Credit Facilities to Pegadaian
State lender Bank Negara Indonesia has extended an additional Rp10 trillion ($590 million) in credit facilities to state-owned pawnshop Pegadaian, bringing total BNI financing to Pegadaian to Rp25.1 trillion. The expansion, formalised through a Credit Agreement signed in March 2026, aims to strengthen Indonesia's financial services ecosystem and broaden access to financing for the public and businesses across various sectors.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:56 WIB
Indonesia opens oil import options from all countries including Russia
Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has affirmed the country is diversifying its oil import sources from multiple countries, including Russia, amid geopolitical uncertainties in the Middle East. The government is shifting away from heavy reliance on Middle Eastern crude, which currently accounts for 20–25 per cent of total imports, and exploring alternatives from the United States, Russia, and Brunei Darussalam. The diversification strategy prioritises commodity availability and competitive pricing whilst maintaining national energy security and stability.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:56 WIB
BI Injects Rp427 Trillion in Liquidity to Banking Sector, State and Private Banks Receive Allocations
Bank Indonesia has distributed Rp427.1 trillion in macroprudential liquidity incentives (KLM) to the banking sector during the first week of March 2026, with allocations targeting priority lending channels and banks demonstrating responsive interest rate reductions. The liquidity is distributed across state-owned banks (Rp225.6 trillion), private national banks (Rp165.8 trillion), regional development banks (Rp28.0 trillion), and foreign exchange banks (Rp7.7 trillion), channelled towards priority sectors including agriculture, industry, construction, and SMEs.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:55 WIB
Supporting Free Mudik 2026 Programme, PAM JAYA Prepares 15 Buses to Java and Sumatra
PAM JAYA, a Jakarta Provincial Government-owned enterprise, is supporting the DKI Jakarta Free Mudik 2026 programme by providing 15 buses serving routes to major cities in Java and Sumatra. The initiative, symbolically launched by Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung at the National Monument, aims to facilitate homecoming journeys for residents whilst strengthening family ties and promoting togetherness. This inaugural participation by PAM JAYA forms part of a broader corporate social responsibility scheme involving multiple Jakarta SOEs, with the programme expected to serve over 35,000 passengers using 744 buses in total.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:55 WIB
Bahlil Cites Positive Developments from Middle East as Strait of Hormuz Opens and Closes
Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has reported improved prospects at the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran has implemented a selective opening and closing policy excluding Israel and the United States, allowing negotiations to resume for detained vessels. Indonesian oil tankers remain trapped in the strait under ongoing negotiations; meanwhile, the minister confirmed fuel, LPG, and electricity supplies remain controlled and safe, with new LPG shipments expected by month's end and the government examining potential conservation measures including working from home policies.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:55 WIB
KPK Detains Gus Alex, Former Special Assistant to Ex-Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut, Over Alleged Hajj Quota Corruption
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has officially detained Ishfah Abidal Aziz, known as Gus Alex, the former special assistant to ex-Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, in connection with alleged corruption related to the 2023-2024 hajj quota distribution. According to the KPK, Gus Alex assisted Yaqut in distributing additional hajj quotas contrary to regulations and coordinated the collection of fees from special hajj organisers, with proceeds shared between the former minister and himself. The arrest follows Yaqut's detention in March 2026, with the former minister maintaining his innocence despite his legal challenge to the charges being dismissed by the court.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:55 WIB
Trump criticises allies reluctant to join Strait of Hormuz escort mission
President Donald Trump has expressed frustration with US allies who are unwilling to participate in a proposed multinational mission to escort oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, specifically criticising the United Kingdom's Prime Minister Keir Starmer for refusing to provide naval support. Trump claimed several countries harbouring large numbers of American troops have rejected requests to contribute minesweepers, asserting that whilst the US does not need their assistance, he finds their lack of enthusiasm disappointing.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:55 WIB
Still receiving treatment at RSCM, Komnas HAM designates Andrie Yunus as a human rights defender
Komnas HAM has strongly condemned the acid attack against Kontras activist Andrie Yunus, who remains hospitalised at RSCM Jakarta, and has formally designated him as a human rights defender. The commission has established an investigation team, coordinated with relevant authorities including the police and victim protection agencies, and issued protective letters whilst urging the police to conduct a thorough, independent, and transparent investigation to prevent further violence against human rights defenders.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:55 WIB
Returning Travellers Heavily Load Vehicles with Luggage on Car Roofs as Lebaran Holiday Approaches
As Indonesia approaches Lebaran with five days remaining, the Jakarta-Cikampek toll road witnessed an influx of returning travellers with numerous private vehicles carrying excessive luggage piled precariously on roof racks, often secured only with tarpaulin and rope. Despite predictions of peak traffic congestion on 13-14 March, traffic has remained relatively free-flowing, with authorities now forecasting the heaviest volume for 17-18 March and postponing scheduled one-way traffic systems accordingly.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:54 WIB
Ukraine Foreign Minister Urges Iran to Halt Gulf Attacks in GCC Dialogue
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha held discussions with Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary General Jasem Albudaiwi, urging Iran to cease military attacks on Gulf states amid regional tensions involving the United States and Israel. Ukraine reaffirmed its support for GCC nations and backed UN Security Council Resolution 2817 condemning Iranian strikes, whilst the GCC emphasised adherence to international law principles including state sovereignty and territorial integrity in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:53 WIB
National Nutrition Agency Temporarily Closes 62 Nutrition Service Facilities During Ramadan Over Substandard Free Meal Programme
The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has temporarily suspended operations at 62 nutrition service facilities across Indonesia following the discovery of substandard meal provision under the free nutritious meal programme. The temporary closures represent enforcement action against a small portion of over 25,000 operating facilities, with the agency implementing tiered sanctions and warning further violations could result in permanent closure. The head of BGN has emphasised that the majority of partner facilities are operating properly and delivering quality services to the public.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:53 WIB
Bank Indonesia: Middle East conflict since February worsens global economic outlook
Bank Indonesia has cautioned that the Middle East conflict beginning in February 2026 is deteriorating the global economic outlook, with surging oil prices disrupting international supply chains and dampening growth prospects. Global economic growth is now forecast at 3.1 per cent for 2026 versus a previous estimate of 3.2 per cent, whilst global inflation has risen to 4.1 per cent, with capital flowing out of emerging markets as the US dollar strengthens and US Treasury yields climb. BI Governor Perry Warjiyo emphasised the need for strengthened fiscal and monetary policy coordination to preserve external resilience and support domestic economic growth.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:53 WIB
Prabowo Orders Police to Investigate Attack on Andrie Yunus
President Prabowo Subianto has instructed police to conduct an objective, transparent and expedited investigation into an acid attack against Andrie Yunus, Deputy Coordinator of the Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (Kontras). The attack occurred on 12 March 2026 in central Jakarta, leaving Yunus with burns covering 24 per cent of his body and requiring eye surgery. National Police Chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo confirmed the directive and pledged to use scientific crime investigation methods, integrating forensic science and physical evidence to establish the facts.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:53 WIB
United States Embassy in Iraq Targeted by Drone Attack
The United States Embassy in Baghdad's heavily fortified Green Zone came under attack from multiple kamikaze drones on 17 March, with smoke and flames visible from the location, though no immediate casualties have been reported. Air defence systems attempted unsuccessfully to intercept the drones, and American fighter jets were subsequently deployed over the embassy complex. The attack is part of coordinated operations by Iraqi resistance groups against US military bases across Iraq, reportedly in retaliation for continued American military operations in the region.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:52 WIB
National Police Chief Announces 110 Red and White Precision Bridges in Riau Fulfil Presidential Vision
National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo announced the completion and groundbreaking of 110 Red and White Precision Bridges across Riau Province, with 27 already completed and 83 under construction. The infrastructure project, initiated by President Prabowo Subianto's concern for rural schoolchildren facing dangerous river crossings and lengthy journeys to access education, aims to improve educational access, quality of life, and economic conditions in remote communities.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:52 WIB
Sterilisation Operations Begin on Cipali Toll Road Ahead of One-Way Traffic System Implementation
Sterilisation operations commenced on the Jakarta-bound lane of the Cipali Toll Road on Tuesday, 17 March 2026, as a preparatory measure for implementing a one-way traffic management system. The operations included clearing the main lane and rest areas, whilst traffic monitoring showed a 19 per cent increase in overall volume compared to the previous day, with approximately 34,000 vehicles heading towards Cirebon and 13,000 towards Jakarta during the morning period.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:52 WIB
Pramono Readies Work-from-Home for Jakarta's Civil Servants Following Prabowo's Directive to Conserve Fuel
Jakarta's provincial government is preparing to implement work-from-home (WFH) arrangements for civil servants as a fuel conservation measure in response to President Prabowo Subianto's directive on mitigating global economic uncertainties. Governor Pramono Anung stated that WFH is one of several proactive measures, alongside energy and food security preparations, to reduce fuel consumption and mobility amid unstable global conditions affecting fuel availability and prices.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:52 WIB
Avoid Going Outside Between 10:00–14:00 WIB: These Groups Are Most Vulnerable to Extreme Heat
Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned vulnerable populations to avoid outdoor activities during peak sunshine hours (10:00–14:00 WIB) as extreme heat continues to afflict Jakarta through late March 2026, with temperatures reaching 35.6°C and ultraviolet indices at extreme danger levels. Children, elderly persons, and outdoor workers are particularly at risk from prolonged heat exposure, which can trigger heat stress and impact health and work productivity. The early onset of the 2026 dry season across Java and other Indonesian regions is expected to maintain clear skies and intensified solar radiation.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:51 WIB
BMKG: Shallow Earthquake Strikes Sumedang on Tuesday, Triggered by Local Fault
A 3.0-magnitude shallow earthquake struck Sumedang Regency, West Java on Tuesday morning at 06:44 WIB, caused by local fault activity at a depth of five kilometres. The Indonesian Agency for Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics (BMKG) reported no building damage or aftershocks as of 07:03 WIB, whilst urging the public to remain calm and maintain earthquake preparedness measures.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:51 WIB
Protecting Democracy, Idrus Marham Reminds That Criticism Must Be Grounded in Ethics
Idrus Marham, Deputy Chairman of Golkar Party, has cautioned that whilst criticism is integral to democracy, it must be conducted ethically, rationally, and without ulterior motives. He emphasised that critical discourse should be guided by national commitment, Pancasila ideology, and the rule of law, whilst warning against the dangers of criticism driven by personal animosity or undisclosed funding interests.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:51 WIB
Bank Indonesia Adjusts Foreign Currency Transaction Limits From April 2026
Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo announced new foreign currency transaction thresholds effective April 2026 to support rupiah exchange rate stability. The policy reduces the cash foreign currency purchase limit from USD 100,000 to USD 50,000 per actor per month, whilst increasing DNDF forward sale and swap transaction thresholds from USD 5 million to USD 10 million per transaction.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:50 WIB
Bank Maspion (BMAS) Secures US$285 Million Loan from KBank
PT Bank Maspion Indonesia Tbk (BMAS) has secured a US$285 million bilateral loan from its parent company Kasikornbank (KBank) to support liquidity and credit distribution. The two-year facility carries interest at SOFR plus a market-based margin, with US$100 million already drawn and further drawdowns to occur in tranches. The transaction, which does not constitute a conflict of interest under Indonesian financial regulations, strengthens the bank's capacity to serve customers.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:50 WIB
Badung Police Uncover Three Foreign Nationals as Suspects in Obscene Video Case
Badung Police in Bali have arrested three foreign nationals—a French female content creator, an Italian male, and another French male—suspected of producing pornographic content at a villa in Pererenan. The three were apprehended between 14-16 March, with two arrested at Ngurah Rai International Airport as they attempted to flee to Thailand, whilst the third was captured in Canggu. The suspects face charges under Indonesia's Criminal Code and Information Technology Law, with sentences ranging from six months to ten years imprisonment.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:50 WIB
Aceh Migrants Begin Returning Home for Eid Holiday under "Woe U Gampoeng" Tradition
Aceh migrants from across Indonesia are beginning to return to their home villages ahead of Eid, with waves of travellers arriving at Sigli Bus Terminal over recent days. The "Woe U Gampoeng" (Returning Home) tradition carries significant cultural, religious, and economic importance, with migrants from Sumatra and Java contributing financially to their home communities. Scholars note that this migration pattern reflects deep-rooted values of kinship and social solidarity within Acehnese society.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:49 WIB
Free BUMN Homecoming 2026: Kimia Farma Dispatches Travellers to Solo and Yogyakarta
PT Kimia Farma (Persero) Tbk has launched its participation in the BUMN Joint Homecoming Programme 2026, providing free bus transportation to support Idul Fitri travel. The initiative, symbolically inaugurated on 17 March 2026, saw Kimia Farma deploy five buses carrying 240 passengers to five destinations including Solo, Yogyakarta, Semarang, Surabaya, and Padang, with over 4,740 registrations received within 30 minutes.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:49 WIB
Disciplinary sanctions for Jakarta civil servants using official vehicles for personal purposes during holiday periods
The Jakarta provincial government has issued a circular imposing disciplinary sanctions on civil servants who use official vehicles for personal purposes, including travelling home for religious holidays (Nyepi and Eid 1447H/2026M) and national holidays. The measure, outlined in Circular No. 13/SE/2026 issued on 13 March 2026, prohibits the use of both official position vehicles and operational vehicles for personal activities and aligns with corruption prevention directives from the anti-corruption commission.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:49 WIB
Middle East Tensions Rise; Government Opens Option for Russian Oil Imports
Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has announced the government is considering importing crude oil from Russia as Middle East tensions escalate around the Strait of Hormuz, potentially disrupting global energy supplies. The government is also exploring oil and liquefied petroleum gas cooperation with Brunei and seeking to secure competitively priced energy supplies to strengthen national energy security.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:48 WIB
BRIN develops lightweight biomass roof tiles for earthquake safety
Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has developed lightweight, eco-friendly composite roof tiles made from biomass as an alternative to conventional roofing materials, designed to reduce earthquake-related casualties and support the country's Net Zero Emission target by 2060. The innovation aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's "gentengisasi" initiative to replace metal roofs across Indonesia, with the tiles offering water-resistance, fire-retardancy, and maintained mechanical strength whilst undergoing rigorous long-term testing and field trials.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:48 WIB
When One Job Is No Longer Enough
Indonesia's growing workforce of 154 million has increasingly turned to side hustles to bridge the gap between primary employment income and living costs, revealing structural vulnerabilities in job quality and wage stability. Data from the August 2025 National Labour Force Survey shows that whilst the workforce continues to expand, employment quality has not kept pace, with a large proportion of workers in precarious positions lacking adequate income and job security. This trend reflects deeper issues with Indonesia's labour market structure, where the majority of workers remain in vulnerable employment categories requiring supplementary income to meet basic needs.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:48 WIB
Bank Indonesia Maintains Benchmark Interest Rate at 4.75%
Bank Indonesia has held its benchmark interest rate (BI rate) steady at 4.75%, alongside maintaining the deposit facility at 3.75% and lending facility at 5.5%. Governor Perry Warjiyo stated the decision aims to strengthen rupiah stability amid deteriorating global conditions and to achieve inflation targets, whilst the central bank will optimise monetary policy instruments and digital payment infrastructure.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:47 WIB
Police Chief: 40 per cent of Jadetabek residents depart for homecoming, peak expected tonight
The Metro Jaya Police Chief reports that 40 per cent of residents from the Jakarta, Depok, Tangerang and Bekasi (Jadetabek) metropolitan area have already departed for their hometowns during the Eid al-Fitr homecoming period in 2026. Traffic remains fluid with the peak exodus expected tonight through Wednesday (18 March 2026), with police conducting oversight at major transport hubs and implementing security measures to protect neighbourhoods.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 14:46 WIB
Mudik Exodus Increases, One-Way Traffic System Implemented This Afternoon, Km 70 to Km 263
Indonesia's National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas Polri) has implemented a phased one-way traffic management system on the Trans Java toll road section beginning Tuesday afternoon (17 March 2026), starting from kilometre 70 to kilometre 263, in response to surging vehicle traffic during the mudik (homecoming) season. The measure was decided following coordination with relevant ministries and toll road operators based on analysis of increased traffic volume. Pre-implementation activities include public socialisation and inspection of toll road sections and rest areas to ensure readiness.