Archive: 17 March 2026
Showing 201-250 of 1,957 articles
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 21:01 WIB
Conventional Bank Facilitates IDR 20 Trillion in Islamic State Securities Sales Throughout 2025
PT Bank Central Asia (BCA) facilitated the sale of four series of retail Islamic State Securities (SBSN) worth over IDR 20 trillion in 2025, earning recognition as the Ministry of Finance's Best SBSN Distribution Partner for the year. BCA aims to expand public access and financial education regarding SBSN as a safe, accessible investment instrument through its integrated digital and branch services.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 21:00 WIB
Becak Drivers in Cirebon Receive Rp1.4 Million Compensation from West Java Governor
Twenty becak (traditional cart) drivers in Cirebon, West Java received Rp1.4 million compensation from Governor Dedi Mulyadi to refrain from working during the Eid holiday travel period (H-7 to H+7 Idul Fitri). The scheme, benefiting 5,000 traditional transport operators including angkot and delman drivers, aims to reduce congestion on mudik (holiday migration) routes whilst supporting drivers' income during the festive season.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 21:00 WIB
Want to Travel Home for Eid While Enjoying Beautiful Panoramas? Use the South Coast Route Instead
Indonesia's Ministry of Public Works is promoting the South Coast Route (Pansela Jawa) as an alternative for Eid holiday travel in 2026, which offers scenic coastal views whilst reducing congestion on main routes. The ministry has completed infrastructure improvements including bridge rehabilitation and has deployed 496 mudik posts with emergency relief equipment along national routes, including the entire South Coast corridor from Banten to East Java.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 21:00 WIB
Nvidia's $158.7bn CEO Brings New Catastrophe as This Profession Faces Extinction
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang is aggressively expanding the company's autonomous vehicle platform through partnerships with major automakers including Hyundai, Nissan, Isuzu, BYD, and Geely, leveraging AI to accelerate the development of Level 4 self-driving vehicles. The rapid proliferation of autonomous vehicles and robotaxi services threatens to render the online driver profession obsolete, potentially creating a significant new unemployment crisis.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 21:00 WIB
Red and White Precision Bridge Inaugurated, Riau Residents No Longer Face Crossing Difficulties
The National Police Chief inaugurated the Red and White Precision Bridge in Riau Province on 17 March 2026, a key infrastructure project aligned with President Prabowo Subianto's connectivity initiative. The bridge addresses longstanding access challenges for residents, particularly schoolchildren and economic activities, with 27 of 110 bridges in Riau now completed as part of a broader 411-bridge programme nationwide. The project exemplifies concrete state presence and benefits to remote communities previously hindered by geographical barriers.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 21:00 WIB
Bank Indonesia to Cap Monthly US Dollar Purchases at US$50,000 from April 2026
Bank Indonesia has announced it will halve the maximum monthly foreign currency purchase limit from US$100,000 to US$50,000 per person, effective 1 April 2026, to bolster rupiah stability. The central bank is also adjusting thresholds for derivative transactions and foreign exchange reporting as part of broader measures to protect the currency from deteriorating global conditions stemming from Middle Eastern geopolitical tensions. The rupiah weakened 1.29 per cent to Rp 16,985 per US dollar as of mid-March 2026.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 21:00 WIB
Sarinah Sends Off 91 Mudik Travellers to Yogyakarta and Surabaya
PT Sarinah, a state-owned enterprise, has dispatched 91 mudik travellers to Yogyakarta and Surabaya on 17 March 2026 as part of its Free Mudik Programme for state enterprises. The programme provides comprehensive support including two buses from different Jakarta locations, travel insurance, goodie bags, and comfort amenities. This initiative reflects Sarinah's broader corporate social responsibility efforts during Ramadan, which also include educational activities, community food packages, and grassroots fundraising programmes.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:59 WIB
Magetan Population Authority Launches Digital Service "SI PAK HER"
The Population and Civil Registration Authority (Disdukcapil) of Magetan Regency has officially launched SI PAK HER, a digital service application for population administration that is economical, effective, and responsive. The new service enables residents to access population administration services from home, aligning with digital-era demands for convenience and accessibility.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:58 WIB
Police Ensure Bus Drivers at Tanjung Priok Bus Terminal Are Drug-Free
Police in North Jakarta have begun conducting urine tests on bus drivers at Tanjung Priok Bus Terminal to screen for drug use and health issues that could cause traffic accidents. Over 50 drivers tested so far have all tested negative. The initiative, undertaken by the North Jakarta Metro Police's narcotics unit in collaboration with the National Narcotics Board and local coordination forums, is part of enhanced safety measures ahead of the Lebaran holiday travel season.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:58 WIB
Regions urged to anticipate increase in waste during Eid holiday
Indonesia's Environment Minister has urged regional governments to prepare for a surge in waste during the 2026 Eid al-Fitr holiday, when approximately 143.9 million people are expected to travel from major cities to their hometowns. The ministry estimates that this mass migration could generate significant waste, with each traveller producing roughly 0.5 kilograms daily, and has reminded local officials to enforce existing waste management regulations strictly to handle the burden on regional infrastructure.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:58 WIB
Ferry Ticket Scalper at Bintan Port Arrested for Selling Rp270,000 Tickets at Rp450,000
Police in the Riau Islands arrested a man suspected of scalping ferry tickets at Bintan Port, selling official tickets at nearly double their regulated price. The suspect, identified as RS, allegedly exploited connections with port employees to conduct the scalping operation for approximately one year, with authorities investigating potential involvement of other parties.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:56 WIB
RI Government says fuel prices stable despite ongoing Middle East conflict
Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated that the government has no immediate plans to raise fuel prices and possesses sufficient budget reserves to maintain current price levels throughout the year, using the state budget as a shock absorber against external disruptions. The statement comes as global crude oil prices have surged to over US$100 per barrel owing to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, with state energy firm Pertamina closely monitoring market dynamics and coordinating with the government on potential policy responses.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:55 WIB
H-4 Eid, Migration Traffic at Padang Bai Port Gets Busy as Evening Approaches
Migration traffic at Padang Bai Port in Bali intensified on the fourth day before Eid as travellers headed to Lombok, with many preferring to depart in the evening to avoid daytime heat. Port authorities increased ferry trips from the usual 13 to 15 to accommodate the surge in travellers, with 7,352 passengers recorded crossing on the previous day, mostly motorcyclists.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:55 WIB
Vice President Gibran Visits Jasamarga Tollroad Command Centre to Monitor Lebaran Exodus Traffic
Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka inspected traffic management operations at the Jasamarga Tollroad Command Centre in Bekasi on 17 March 2026, monitoring preparations for the Lebaran 2026 exodus. Traffic data showed approximately 990,506 vehicles leaving the Jakarta-Bogor-Tangerine metropolitan region between 11-16 March, with peak traffic anticipated on 18 March with 259,000 vehicles expected. Jasa Marga has deployed three functional toll routes and digital innovations including 360° monitoring technology and the Travoy application to facilitate safe and efficient travel during the festive season.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:55 WIB
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk Affirms Country Has No Interest in Invading Iran with US-Israel
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has declared that Poland will not deploy military forces to participate in any conflict against Iran, following President Trump's request for allies to form a coalition to secure the Strait of Hormuz. Tusk emphasised that this applies to all Polish military branches—ground, air, and naval forces—which are currently focused on the border conflict with Ukraine. The declaration comes as major international airlines, including Lufthansa, British Airways, and American carriers, suspend flights to Tel Aviv and regional capitals due to significant air traffic restrictions in the Middle East.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:53 WIB
ASDP operates electric buses to serve passengers at Merak Terminal
PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry has deployed four electric buses at Merak Integrated Terminal to transport passengers from the terminal to port departure areas during the Lebaran exodus, improving service efficiency and passenger convenience. The company is also operating 22 shuttle vehicles at Cilegon Railway Station to provide direct access to the port for train users, alongside flexible ticketing policies allowing 8 hours before to 12 hours after scheduled departure times to accommodate travel delays.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:53 WIB
China to Provide Emergency Humanitarian Aid to Four Gulf Nations
China has announced it will provide emergency humanitarian assistance to Iran, Jordan, Lebanon, and Iraq amid significant military escalation in the Middle East affecting nearly 25 million people. The Chinese Foreign Ministry emphasised China's commitment to international solidarity and humanitarian principles whilst highlighting the severe displacement crises across the region, with the UNHCR reporting critical shortages in funding for ongoing relief operations.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:53 WIB
Finance Minister Assures Strong State Budget Can Withstand Fuel Price Pressures Despite Oil Reaching US$100
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has assured the public that the government possesses sufficient fiscal capacity to maintain fuel prices without increases through the end of 2026, despite global crude oil prices breaching the US$100 per barrel mark due to Middle Eastern geopolitical tensions. The minister emphasised that the state budget is functioning as a shock absorber to protect public purchasing power, with the government currently holding adequate reserves to sustain fuel subsidies at present price levels.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:52 WIB
Cabinet Secretary Teddy Inspects People's Economy Train at Pasar Senen Station, Fares Cut-Quality Improved
Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya inspected the people's economy train service at Jakarta's Pasar Senen Station ahead of the 2026 Lebaran exodus, following President Prabowo Subianto's directive to overhaul the national railway sector. Ticket prices for the Jakarta-Yogyakarta route have decreased significantly from Rp225,000–Rp250,000 to Rp135,000–Rp175,000, whilst facility improvements include functioning air conditioning, cleaner toilets, and redesigned seating arrangements that no longer face each other.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:52 WIB
Hang Nadim Airport on Full Alert During Eid Holiday Rush, Extra Flights Exceed Hundreds
Hang Nadim Airport in Batam is operating at full capacity during the 2026 Eid holiday travel rush, with PT Bandara Internasional Batam having received approximately 290 applications for additional flights from various airlines. In the first three days of operations (13–16 March), passenger numbers surged 15 per cent to 59,000 people, and aircraft movements increased 4.4 per cent to 428 flights, exceeding initial projections. The airport has implemented three main strategies—strengthening human resources, adjusting operational procedures, and optimising facilities—to manage the influx through the end of the transport operation period on 30 March.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:51 WIB
Newport Marine Services Profit Grows 73 Per Cent, Boosted by Ship Charter Business
PT Newport Marine Services Tbk (BOAT) recorded a significant 73% net profit growth in 2025, reaching US$2.04 million, driven primarily by its ship charter (vessel charter) business segment and improved financial management. Revenue surged 54% to US$17.71 million, whilst net profit margin expanded to 11.5% from 10.2%, reflecting enhanced operational efficiency and cost control. The company plans measured expansion in the offshore services sector, supported by strengthened cash flows and reduced debt burden.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:50 WIB
Inspection at Kalideres Terminal Ahead of Homecoming Season, DPRD Member Kenneth Highlights Inadequate Facilities
Hardiyanto Kenneth, a Jakarta DPRD member from the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle faction, conducted a surprise inspection at Kalideres Terminal in West Jakarta to assess public transport readiness ahead of the major homecoming season. While praising the terminal's general operations, Kenneth identified several shortcomings including inadequate air conditioning, inconsistent sanitation standards, and potential overcrowding at key points, calling for facility renovations and stricter security measures. The inspection revealed passenger concerns regarding clearer information dissemination, improved waiting area comfort, and baggage security, prompting the DPRD member to commit to monitoring the terminal's development.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:50 WIB
Garment Company in Semarang Struggles to Pay Salaries and Bonuses to 1,338 Workers amid Liquidity Crisis
A garment company in Semarang Regency has failed to pay holiday bonuses and delayed salaries to over 1,300 employees due to liquidity difficulties, according to the Central Java Labour and Transmigration Office. The company, identified as PT MKT, has promised to clear bonuses by April 2026 and settle outstanding overtime payments across multiple months, though workers have reportedly been reluctant to file complaints for fear of dismissal.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:50 WIB
Vehicle Volume Increases, Cipali Toll Road Implements One-Way System
The Cikopo-Palimanan (Cipali) toll road operator implemented a one-way traffic system on 17 March 2026 to manage the Eid mudik (homecoming) exodus, with vehicle volumes increasing approximately 18 per cent to 71,000 vehicles compared to the previous day. The one-way scheme was activated at 15:21 WIB across a 116-kilometre stretch, with rest areas operating at capacity but maintaining available parking spaces. Authorities reminded travellers to limit rest stops to 30 minutes and refrain from stopping on roadsides, emphasising that exit and re-entry through nearby toll gates incurs no additional charges.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:50 WIB
400 Dead as Hospital Bombed; Afghanistan Accuses Pakistan
Pakistan vehemently denies Afghanistan's allegations that it conducted an airstrike on a drug rehabilitation hospital in Kabul that killed approximately 400 people, claiming instead that its military operations targeted militant installations and terrorist infrastructure. The Taliban-led Afghan government maintains the assault occurred on 16 March 2026, destroying the Omar Addiction Treatment Hospital and killing 400 civilians with a further 250 wounded, whilst rising tensions between the two nations have also resulted in border clashes and a widening humanitarian crisis affecting over 20,000 displaced families.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:49 WIB
Tina Wiryawati Urges Young People Not to Abandon Sundanese Culture
West Java legislator Tina Wiryawati has called on young Indonesians to preserve Sundanese culture amid rapid modernisation and globalisation, warning that without careful stewardship, youth risk losing their cultural identity. Speaking at a community engagement event in Kuningan Regency, she emphasised that cultural preservation requires active participation from families, communities, and local government, whilst highlighting the economic and tourism potential of Sundanese traditions and heritage.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:48 WIB
Residents manage traffic on disaster-affected route to Bukittinggi
Residents in Nagari Sungai Landia, West Sumatra have taken it upon themselves to manually direct traffic on a road severely damaged by landslides, narrowing the roadway and forcing alternating two-way passage. Since the disaster three months ago, volunteers work daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. managing traffic flow, clearing debris, and assisting stranded motorists, particularly ahead of the Eid al-Fitr holiday when vehicle volume is expected to surge. The West Sumatra Police Regional Directorate will implement one-way traffic management on primary routes between Padang and Bukittinggi during the holiday period to further mitigate congestion.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:47 WIB
Tourism Ministry and Statistics Bureau Strengthen Data Synergy on Tourism Satellite Account
Indonesia's Tourism Ministry and Statistics Bureau (BPS) are strengthening collaboration to develop Tourism Satellite Account (TSA) data, aiming to provide more current and accurate measurements of tourism's contribution to GDP, currently estimated at 3.97 percent for 2025. The partnership includes implementing Passenger Exit Surveys across international airport executive lounges and developing 2025 tourism employment statistics, with the government targeting tourism's GDP contribution to rise from 4.6 percent in 2025 to 8 percent by 2045.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:47 WIB
To Avert Energy Crisis, Government Develops Mass Work From Home Option for Fuel Savings
The Indonesian government is seriously considering reintroducing Work From Home (WFH) policies as a primary strategy to reduce fuel consumption amid anticipated global energy crisis. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated that WFH is under intensive review following President Prabowo Subianto's directive, whilst assuring that national energy stocks remain secure in line with minimum standards. The policy reflects Indonesia's experience during the COVID-19 pandemic and aligns with similar conservation measures being adopted by neighbouring countries.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:46 WIB
Environment Minister Urges Returnees to Maintain Environmental Standards
Indonesia's Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq has called on mudik (seasonal homecoming) travellers to uphold environmental standards during their journeys, particularly at Tanjung Priok Bus Terminal in North Jakarta. The minister stressed that waste management and cleanliness must be prioritised to ensure safe and comfortable travel, urging the North Jakarta City Administration to swiftly improve supporting facilities to handle mounting refuse at transportation hubs.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:46 WIB
Al-Aqsa Mosque Closure Sparks Condemnation from Malaysian Islamic Youth Movement
The Malaysian Islamic Youth Movement (ABIM) has condemned Israel's continued closure of Al-Aqsa Mosque to Palestinian Muslims, characterising it as a violation of religious freedom and international law. ABIM's president Amad Fahmi called for immediate reopening of the mosque and demanded concrete international action, including diplomatic pressure and invocation of international legal mechanisms, warning that continued inaction by the international community only strengthens impunity and weakens the credibility of the global system.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:45 WIB
Rano Karno to Lead Eid al-Fitr Prayer at DKI City Hall, KH Ma'ruf Amin as Preacher
Jakarta Deputy Governor Rano Karno announced that he will lead Eid al-Fitr prayers in 2026 at Masjid Fatahillah in City Hall, with Vice President KH Ma'ruf Amin serving as the preacher. The provincial government plans to open City Hall for public visits after 11:00 am and will provide free public transportation across Jakarta during the Eid holiday.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:45 WIB
Jatim Police Chief Reveals Suspected Chemical Materials at Jember Mosque Explosion Crime Scene
Jawa Timur Police Chief Irjen Nanang Avianto has assured the public that the situation following an explosion at a mosque in Jember is under control and that a multi-agency investigation is underway. Authorities have indicated that chemical materials may have been involved in the incident, necessitating specialised handling by forensic laboratory teams and a methodical investigation approach.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:45 WIB
Government Targets Completion of 2026 Mining Work and Budget Plan Approvals by End of March
Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is targeting the completion of approvals for 2026 Work Plans and Budget Plans (RKAB) for mineral and coal mining by the end of March 2026. The Directorate General of Mineral and Coal reports having already approved plans covering approximately 400 million tonnes of coal and over 100 million tonnes of nickel as of mid-March, whilst noting challenges in transitioning to a new application submission system.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:45 WIB
Strengthening Literacy and National Character at Tanjung Priok Through Reading Corners for State Defence
The Ministry of Defence inaugurated a Reading Corner for State Defence (Pojok Baca Bela Negara) at a kindergarten in Tanjung Priok, Jakarta, through a collaborative initiative aimed at strengthening literacy and instilling national values. The facility is intended to serve as an educational space that promotes critical thinking, national consciousness, and democratic values amongst young people and communities whilst addressing contemporary challenges such as disinformation and social polarisation.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:44 WIB
Eid Holiday: Gus Ipul Ensures Social Welfare Services Continue
Social Welfare Minister Saifullah Yusuf (Gus Ipul) has instructed his ministry to maintain all services during the 2026 Eid holiday, emphasising that celebrations should not interrupt assistance for vulnerable populations. The minister also highlighted concerns about potential social impacts from Middle Eastern conflicts, including inflation and reduced purchasing power, and urged his staff to strengthen data collection, expand safety net programmes, and improve operational efficiency through cost optimisation and digitalisation.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:43 WIB
West Java Restricts Traditional Transport During Eid, Provides 1.4 Million Rupiah Compensation
West Java Provincial Government has implemented restrictions on traditional transport vehicles including horse-drawn carts, pedicabs, and public minibuses on major routes during the 2026 Eid holiday period to reduce congestion. Around 5,000 affected drivers will receive compensation of 1.4 million rupiah each, disbursed in two instalments before and after Eid, with the condition that they do not operate on prohibited routes.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:43 WIB
Haier Introduces AI Vision 2.0, Advancing the Concept of Manual Labour-Free Homes
Haier unveiled its latest AI Vision 2.0 technology and household robots at the 2026 Appliance & Consumer Electronics Expo in Shanghai, aimed at enabling fully automated home environments. The technology features advanced visual recognition capabilities integrated into appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines, whilst three categories of robots—cleaning, companion, and household task robots—are designed to execute domestic duties autonomously. The innovations operate through the company's UHomeOS platform, enabling smart home devices to adapt proactively to user behaviours and requirements.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:43 WIB
Unique Concept: Transformers-Inspired Integrated Post at Padalarang Welcomes Homecoming Travellers
The Cimahi Police's Integrated Mudik Post at Padalarang Toll Gate in West Bandung District has unveiled a distinctive facility inspired by the Transformers robot character Optimus Prime, featuring prayer areas, children's play zones, and free workshop services. Police Chief AKBP Niko N Adiputra stated the design represents the hope that the Indonesian National Police (Polri) can continuously transform into a more precise institution that protects, nurtures, and serves the public. The National Police Commission praised the child-friendly approach, emphasising the importance of creating positive experiences for children during the festive Eid mudik season.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:42 WIB
GenB's Wayang Method Transforms Energy Transition Knowledge into Creative Narrative
Generasi Energi Bersih (GenB) Indonesia and Youth for Energy Southeast Asia launched the Amplify initiative in South Tangerang, using traditional wayang puppet theatre to educate 40 children from marginal communities about clean energy transition and climate adaptation. The programme combines creative storytelling with interactive workshops on renewable energy literacy, designed as a replicable model to ensure inclusive climate education across Southeast Asia.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:41 WIB
ASDP Chief Requests Replacement of Ketapang-Gilimanuk Ferries with Larger Capacity Vessels
The Chief Executive of PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry has called for operational improvements at Gilimanuk and Ketapang ports, including replacement of ferries with larger tonnage capacity. With the possibility of tolled highways extending to Banyuwangi, existing port facilities risk becoming bottlenecks unless infrastructure is upgraded simultaneously at both ports.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:41 WIB
Gus Alex Confirmed to Spend Eid Holiday in Detention
The Indonesian Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Isfan Abidal Aziz (Gus Alex), former special staff to the Religion Minister, for a 20-day period beginning 17 March 2026 in connection with alleged bribery in the management and distribution of Hajj quotas at the Religion Ministry. The case centres on allegations that approximately 20,000 additional Hajj quotas were improperly allocated, with quotas divided 50-50 between regular and special Hajj pilgrimages instead of the mandated 92-8 split, causing harm to regular pilgrims waiting up to 47 years for their turn.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:40 WIB
Pertamina Inspects Padalarang Fuel Terminal, Ensures Fuel and LPG Stocks Safe During Eid al-Fitr 2026
PT Pertamina has confirmed its preparedness to meet Indonesia's energy requirements during the Eid al-Fitr 2026 holiday period, following an inspection by the Deputy Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources at the Padalarang Fuel Terminal in West Java. The company has mobilised extensive infrastructure nationwide, including 2,420 24-hour fuel stations, 6,300 LPG agents, and 200 fuel tanker vehicles, with enhanced measures for the western Java region to handle anticipated surges in demand during the homecoming and return travel periods.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:40 WIB
Video: Apindo Chief – Entrepreneurs Think Creatively as Logistics Flows Face Disruption
The chairperson of Indonesia's business association, Apindo, has highlighted how escalating tensions between Iran, the United States, and Israel are beginning to impact Indonesia's business sector. Given the domestic industry's heavy reliance on global energy supplies and logistics networks, the conflict poses direct risks to production and distribution costs for Indonesian enterprises.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:40 WIB
Co-Payment Insurance Rules Set to Show Impact Mid-Year
Indonesia's Financial Services Authority predicts that new regulations on co-payment and risk-sharing in health insurance (POJK 36/2025) will begin showing measurable impact from the second quarter of 2026 as the industry adjusts its business processes. The rules mandate co-payment mechanisms and Medical Advisory Boards to manage the rising costs of health insurance claims, which increased 9.1% in 2025 to Rp26.74 trillion despite ongoing challenges from medical inflation and high healthcare service utilisation.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:39 WIB
Makassar Prepares to Welcome Delegations from 31 OIC Nations at IGS 2026
Makassar's Mayor Munafri Arifuddin has pledged the city's readiness to host delegations from 31 Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member nations for the Indonesia Gastrodiplomacy Series (IGS) Diplomatic Tour in May-June 2026. The city is preparing a comprehensive reception plan that goes beyond ceremonial elements to showcase Makassar's potential, including investment opportunities and tourism cooperation. The preparations include arrangements for accommodation, delegation services, cultural showcases specific to Makassar, and traffic coordination, with a coordinated review scheduled with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 30 March.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:38 WIB
The Role of Gus Alex, Right-Hand Man of Yaqut, in Hajj Quota Corruption
The Indonesian Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that Isfan Abidal Aziz, known as Gus Alex, a former special staff member to the Religion Minister, played a central role in facilitating alleged bribery in the management and distribution of hajj quotas at the Ministry of Religion. Acting as the key intermediary for former Religion Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas between 2020-2024, Gus Alex coordinated with hajj operators, negotiated quota allocations, collected acceleration fees, and communicated with Saudi Arabian officials to distribute additional quotas—all reportedly under Yaqut's instructions and for his financial benefit.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:38 WIB
Free Nutritious Meals Programme Suspended During Eid al-Fitr, Budget Savings of Rp5 Trillion Achieved
Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency has temporarily halted the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme during the Eid al-Fitr holiday period, claiming budget savings of approximately Rp5 trillion. The programme will resume operations on 31 March 2026, whilst the agency has strengthened coordination with the Attorney General's Office to prevent corruption and ensure transparent fund management across regional nutrition service units.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:37 WIB
Rapid Financing Solution: GrabModal Supports UMKM Partners During Ramadan
GrabModal by OVO Finansial, an OJK-licensed financial service, provides quick and accessible financing to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and Grab drivers, particularly during high-spending periods like Ramadan and Eid. The service features simple applications, flexible repayment schemes tied to daily income, and a temporary payment deferral facility during Eid holidays (17–25 March 2026 for drivers, 18–24 March 2026 for MSMEs) to ease financial pressures during festive periods.
Tue, 17 Mar 2026, 20:37 WIB
Middle East Conflict Escalation Prompts Bank Indonesia to Abandon Rate Cut Prospects
Bank Indonesia has removed the possibility of reducing its benchmark interest rate from its monetary policy outlook due to escalating Middle East tensions. BI Governor Perry Warjiyo explained that the central bank now anticipates global oil price increases and higher inflation from the conflict, prompting the institution to maintain its BI rate at 4.75 per cent and focus on currency intervention and foreign exchange reserves management.