The Saudi Ambassador to Indonesia, Faisal bin Abdullah Al-Amudi, has reaffirmed that the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage will proceed safely and on schedule despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. He highlighted that preparations are running smoothly with no significant obstacles, and flights to Saudi Arabia will adhere to the planned timetable for Indonesian pilgrims. The Saudi government urges Indonesians not to worry, as the Kingdom remains secure and all arrangements are progressing as intended.

Transjakarta has deployed 10 additional night-time transport units (Amari) at Kalideres Terminal in West Jakarta to handle the surge in passengers returning from Eid al-Fitr holidays. On Tuesday, the terminal recorded 1,609 arrivals, primarily from Central Java, Sumatra, West Java, East Java, and Banten, with numbers expected to peak on Friday, 27 March 2026, due to the resumption of work for many. This preparation, in collaboration with Mikrotrans, underscores efforts to ensure smooth public transportation during high-traffic periods following national holidays.

The Central Java Police Chief, Ribut Hari Wibowo, has confirmed that security and order during the 2026 Eid al-Fitr holiday remain stable and conducive, with comprehensive measures covering celebration sites and tourist attractions in collaboration with the military, local governments, and stakeholders. Governor Ahmad Luthfi urged the public and travellers to prioritise safety and avoid rushing during journeys, while National Police Chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo instructed forces to anticipate traffic congestion in high-density areas and popular destinations. Preparations include weather forecasts, one-way traffic schemes, vehicle inspections, and reliable electricity supply, highlighting the government's commitment to ensuring a smooth and safe holiday period amid increased mobility.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a phone conversation with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi on Tuesday to push for a complete cessation of hostilities in the region, amid escalating tensions following US and Israeli strikes on Iran. Araghchi affirmed Iran's commitment to a full end to the war rather than a temporary ceasefire, expressed gratitude for China's humanitarian aid, and reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to non-belligerent vessels while warning of potential disruptions. Wang Yi emphasised China's principled stance in favour of dialogue and negotiation over military force, committing to an active role in promoting peace, as global oil markets face disruptions from the conflict.

The case of the acid attack on KontraS activist Andrie Yunus has drawn public attention, with the Indonesian National Armed Forces' Military Police (Puspom TNI) responding swiftly by arresting and examining suspected rogue members, while maintaining transparency in updates. Professor Kadri from UIN Mataram emphasises that the incident should be viewed as actions by individuals rather than implicating the entire TNI institution, warning against opinion manipulation that could undermine public trust in the military. He praises TNI's open communication strategy as essential in the information age to prevent misinformation and ensure clarity.

During the 2026 Eid holiday period, illegal parking operations have resurfaced around Batam's iconic Barelang Bridge, prompting complaints from tourists who are being charged unofficial fees by unidentified individuals. Visitors report discrepancies in requested payments, such as being asked for Rp10,000 despite tickets indicating Rp5,000, highlighting a lack of official oversight that disrupts traffic and tarnishes the area's tourism image. Authorities, including Batam's Transportation Department head, have yet to respond, with hopes for enforcement to ensure safety and order in this popular site.

Jakarta Central Metropolitan Police are ramping up patrols and enforcement actions to combat the circulation of illegal drugs in the Tanah Abang area, as part of ongoing efforts to prevent and uphold the law against narcotics distribution. Joint teams from the narcotics unit and local police conduct nightly mobile patrols targeting high-risk spots and suspicious individuals to maintain a conducive environment. Authorities emphasise the importance of community collaboration to detect and prevent illegal drug activities early.

PT Jasa Marga has urged motorists returning to the Jabotabek area during the post-Eid rush to ensure they have sufficient e-toll balance before entering toll roads, following evaluations of the 2026 Lebaran travel period that revealed significant instances of top-ups causing delays. For a medium-distance trip from Semarang to Jakarta in vehicle Class I, a minimum balance of Rp500,000 is recommended to avoid long queues at toll gates like Cikampek Utama. This preparation is crucial to maintain smooth traffic flow amid the surge in vehicles, especially under the closed transaction system on the Trans Java Toll Road where the entry and exit e-toll cards must match.

The Merarik tradition of the Sasak people in Lombok involves a groom symbolically "kidnapping" his bride with her consent, reflecting deep cultural values of commitment and respect for women. This practice, conducted secretly at night and involving close relatives, strengthens family bonds and minimises divorce risks, distinguishing it from forced elopements. Preserved through generations, Merarik symbolises the high esteem in which women are held, portraying the act as an honour rather than a negative deed.

Indonesian House of Representatives member Harris Turino from the PDI Perjuangan faction has called for reinforcing social solidarity during Idul Fitri 1447 H, amid challenging economic conditions affecting lower-income families through rising prices and limited business opportunities. He emphasises that the lessons of patience, self-control, and empathy from Ramadan should translate into collective support for those in need, highlighting gotong royong as Indonesia's key strength for recovery. Harris urges the nation to build a future based on hard work, honesty, anti-corruption efforts, and prioritising the people.

Authorities in Jakarta have deflated the tyres of 28 vehicles parked illegally near the National Monument (Monas) as a deterrent measure against roadside parking. The Head of DKI Jakarta Transportation Agency, Syafrin Liputo, stated that repeated socialisation efforts and directions to proper parking areas like IRTI Monas or Gambir have been ignored by stubborn drivers. This enforcement action highlights ongoing efforts to manage traffic and parking in central Jakarta amid public complaints that went viral on social media.

Saudi Arabia's Ambassador to Indonesia has urged the international community to safeguard the security of the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating tensions from Iranian attacks in the region, warning that disruptions could severely impact global energy flows and trigger worldwide economic shocks. The ambassador highlighted a UN Security Council resolution supported by 136 countries calling for Iran to cease its actions, emphasising that such incidents threaten not only Gulf states but the entire world, with developing nations particularly vulnerable to interruptions in oil distribution. This statement underscores the critical role of energy security in maintaining global economic stability.

Police in Cibatu swiftly responded to reports of stone-throwing incidents targeting vehicles of holidaymakers on the main route from Bandung to Tasikmalaya in Garut, arresting a man suspected to be mentally ill. The individual, believed to originate from Tasikmalaya, was taken to a nearby health centre for initial medical attention before being handed over to local social welfare services to prevent recurrence and ensure proper handling. This incident underscores the police's commitment to maintaining safety during the 2026 holiday travel period, with no reported vehicle damage yet and increased patrols in vulnerable areas.

The Relawan Arus Bawah Prabowo (ABP) has expressed full support for the involvement of the Attorney General's Office's Deputy Attorney General for Intelligence (Jamintel) in overseeing the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG), viewing it as a strategic measure to ensure transparency, accountability, and targeted implementation. This multi-layered supervision system, including legal intelligence, financial audits by BPKP, and public participation, aims to prevent deviations from becoming legal issues and safeguard the programme's integrity. As a flagship initiative of President Prabowo Subianto's administration, MBG is seen as a long-term investment in Indonesia's human resources, with strict oversight essential to enhance education, health, and national productivity.

The Japanese government has announced the release of 8.5 million kilolitres of state oil reserves, equivalent to 30 days' supply, starting Thursday to mitigate the impact of surging energy prices amid the Middle East crisis. This follows the prior release of private reserves covering 15 days' needs, with additional support from Middle Eastern countries like the UAE providing five days' worth. The measures aim to stabilise the economy, curb inflation risks, and lower record-high petrol prices, exacerbated by the Iranian blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and market speculation.

MY Esti Wijayanti, Deputy Chair of DPR Commission X, has rejected the government's proposal to reinstate online learning for school students starting April 2026 as a strategy to conserve energy, particularly fuel oil, drawing lessons from the ineffective experiences during the Covid-19 pandemic. She highlighted significant issues such as learning loss, declines in PISA scores, and challenges in building character and social skills among students due to remote education. Esti urged the government to explore more creative alternatives to address global energy pressures without compromising the development of the nation's youth, noting widespread public opposition to the plan.

Residents of Pematangsiantar, particularly in the Setia Negara area, are facing disruptions in clean water supply from PDAM Tirtauli on the third day of Idul Fitri 1447 H holidays, affecting their ability to cook and bathe during the festive period. Local resident Sulastiati expressed disappointment over the service failure, resorting to buying ready-made food from nearby shops. PDAM Director Arianto apologised, attributing the issue to burst pipes in two locations near Jalan Panambean, and assured that repairs are underway while requesting patience from affected customers.

LG Electronics Indonesia has launched its annual LG Lebaran Sehat programme in Pasirlangu village, West Bandung Regency, to aid recovery following a devastating landslide in late January that claimed lives and displaced residents. The initiative distributed 1,000 healthy meal packages aligned with Indonesia's GERMAS guidelines, provided health check-ups and vitamins for toddlers through local Posyandu collaborations, and donated educational toys and school supplies to support children's learning amid the crisis. This effort underscores LG's commitment to corporate social responsibility under its LG Loves Indonesia pillars, emphasising sustainable community contributions alongside business growth.

South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun has requested Oman's assistance in supplying liquefied natural gas (LNG) and crude oil during the escalating Middle East crisis, which has led to a de facto blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and disrupted global energy exports. Seoul has elevated its oil supply alert to level two and secured 18 million barrels from the UAE as a priority measure. The ministers also discussed regional developments, with Cho thanking Oman for supporting South Korean naval operations and seeking help for potential evacuations of Korean nationals.

DPLK Avrist, a financial institution pension fund, has outlined the effects of interest rate fluctuations on bond investments, noting that rising rates enhance yields on new instruments but may adjust prices of existing bonds, while falling rates could yield capital gains at the cost of lower future yields. The fund emphasises a balanced strategy focusing on high-quality assets, diversified investment packages tailored to participants' risk profiles, and rigorous performance monitoring to ensure prudent, sustainable growth. Amid global market dynamics projected to impact pension fund performance in 2026, Avrist underscores the importance of long-term consistency and risk management over short-term volatility.

The Bogor City Government will implement a policy from 26 March 2026 to ban vegetable and fruit trucks from entering the Suryakencana Bogor Market as part of urban area restructuring efforts. Drivers will be redirected to Pasar Gembrong in Sukasari and Pasar Jambu Dua, with initial socialization and guidance before full enforcement involving fines by joint teams from TNI, Police, and Satpol PP. This measure aims to control supply distribution and maintain order in the market vicinity.

During the 2026 Eid holiday, Tanah Datar Regent Eka Putra visited the Istano Basa Pagaruyuang tourist site in West Sumatra to inspect facilities like toilets, ablution areas, and prayer rooms, confirming they were clean and comfortable for visitors. Visitor numbers surged to 10,500 on the previous day, boosting sales for local vendors and highlighting the economic benefits of tourism during the festive period. Officials emphasised maintaining security and comfort, with support from various agencies, underscoring the role of local government in promoting regional economic activity through tourism.

PT Garuda Indonesia Tbk reported a net loss of US$319.39 million, equivalent to approximately Rp 5.42 trillion, for the full year of 2025, marking a significant increase from the previous year's loss of US$69.77 million. The widened deficit was primarily attributed to reduced operational capacity in the first half of the year due to 43 unserviceable aircraft awaiting maintenance, leading to a 10.5% drop in passenger numbers to 21.2 million, alongside rupiah currency fluctuations and rising fixed costs from fleet recovery efforts. Management remains optimistic about gradual improvement through ongoing fleet rehabilitation, business transformation, and funding support from the Danantara investment agency, targeting 68 serviceable aircraft for Garuda and 50 for Citilink by the end of 2026.

Amid rising global oil prices due to the Middle East conflict, Indonesia has promptly introduced energy-saving measures for civil servants and some students. This swift action has prompted tourism leaders to question potential disruptions in the travel sector, particularly affecting Bali. The measures highlight Indonesia's proactive stance on energy conservation in response to international tensions, with implications for its vital tourism industry.

The Kuantan Singingi Police Resort in Riau Province has destroyed three illegal gold mining rafts by burning them in Kuantan Tengah District, following community reports of unauthorised activities. No perpetrators were found at the site, but the operation underscores the authorities' ongoing commitment to enforcing the law against such operations to protect the environment and public order. The police urged the public to report any illegal mining sightings via the 110 hotline and emphasised adherence to green policing initiatives.

Bali's top attractions are experiencing a significant boost in visitors during the Eid al-Fitr holiday, with domestic tourism surging due to the national public holiday and school vacations, leading to over 100 million people traveling across Indonesia. Deputy Minister of Tourism Ni Luh Enik Ermawati visited sites like the Bali Botanical Garden, praising their management and safety measures amid the influx, which has increased daily visitors from 500 to 4,000-5,000. This holiday-driven tourism revival highlights Bali's appeal as a key destination, despite Java leading in demand, and underscores the economic importance of domestic travel for the island's businesses.

Bali authorities have reinforced their zero-tolerance policy towards cultural disrespect by tourists, highlighted by the arrest of a Swiss national for posting abusive content about Nyepi on Instagram, facing up to five years in prison under Indonesia's Criminal Code. Another incident involved a Turkish tourist facing backlash for mocking a traditional Ogoh Ogoh statue, prompting calls for immigration action. These events underscore Bali's commitment to protecting its cultural heritage during sacred periods like Nyepi and Eid al-Fitr, while emphasising that the majority of visitors respect local customs.

Experts have cautioned against framing the acid attack on activist Andrie Yunus as an institutional failure of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), emphasising that it involves individual rogue members rather than the organisation as a whole, to prevent public delegitimisation. The TNI's Military Police Centre has responded swiftly with arrests, transparent investigations, and commitments to military justice, reinforced by President Prabowo Subianto's firm stance on accountability. Legal practitioners and observers stress the importance of transparency to maintain public trust and avoid misinformation, while some groups advocate for general court proceedings over military ones.

The Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas (PKP) has allocated 19,668 units of Self-Help Housing Stimulus Assistance (BSPS) for North Sumatra in 2026, comprising 8,825 units in rural areas, 5,525 in coastal regions, and 5,285 in urban areas, as part of a national target of 400,000 units prioritised by President Prabowo Subianto to address uninhabitable housing. During a visit to Toba Regency, Minister Maruarar Sirait inspected proposed beneficiary homes and urged the public to monitor the programme and report any illicit fees to ensure aid reaches those in need. The initiative aims to improve the quality of housing for low-income families, making it more livable, healthy, and safe, with implementation set to begin in the second week of April 2026.

The Philippine government under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has declared a national energy emergency in response to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating Middle East conflicts involving the US, Israel, and Iran, which threaten domestic fuel supplies and have caused global energy market disruptions. This executive order enables coordinated measures to mitigate economic impacts, including the formation of a special committee to ensure distribution of essential commodities like fuel, food, and medicines, while the emergency status is set for one year. The move addresses soaring energy prices—over double pre-conflict levels—and the country's heavy reliance on Gulf imports, prompting additional austerity steps such as subsidies for public transport drivers and a four-day workweek for civil servants.

The traditional Minangkabau Rumah Gadang house in West Sumatra is renowned for its aesthetic appeal and remarkable earthquake resistance, achieved through physics-based design principles. Unlike modern structures, it relies on surface-placed stones for foundation stability and flexible wooden pillars that adapt to seismic movements, minimising damage. The steeply pitched roof made from lightweight yet durable ijuk fibres not only prevents water retention but also enhances air circulation and thermal insulation, ensuring comfort in the tropical climate.

A recent report from The Economist highlights Indonesia as one of the developing nations least affected by the global energy crisis stemming from escalating conflicts between Iran and Israel-US, crediting the government's effective strategies in maintaining national energy stability amid geopolitical tensions. DEN member Satya Widya Yudha emphasised the success in managing oil trade disruptions, particularly threats to the Strait of Hormuz, through public education on energy conservation and long-term plans for enhancing domestic oil and gas exploration and storage reserves. This positioning underscores Indonesia's stronger resilience compared to neighbours like Vietnam, supported by domestic resources and measured subsidies, with future focus on diversification and energy transition to sustain security.

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry is implementing the Tiba-Bongkar-Berangkat (TBB) scheme on the Bakauheni-Merak route to manage vehicle queues during the return flow of Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah. Under this scheme, loaded ferries depart from Bakauheni, unload at Merak, and return promptly to load more passengers, aiming to speed up vessel rotation and prevent congestion. The peak return flow is expected on 24 March 2026 and 28 March 2026, highlighting the route's critical role in national mobility and logistics distribution.

According to a New York Times report, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) has urged US President Donald Trump to press on with military actions against Iran, viewing it as a historic opportunity to reshape the Middle East by dismantling the hardline Iranian regime. This stance aligns with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's perspective on Iran as a long-term threat, though senior Saudi and US officials express concerns over the risks of escalation, including devastating attacks on Saudi oil facilities and an endless war. Despite public statements from Saudi officials emphasising peaceful resolutions and self-defence, the conflict has already disrupted global oil markets through Iranian drone and missile strikes in retaliation.

The Central Kalimantan Regional Police (Polda Kalteng) has decided to extend security posts, service points, and integrated checkpoints in areas deemed high-risk for security threats, even after the official end of Operation Ketupat on 25 March 2026. Priority regions include Kapuas district as a main route for returnees from Banjarmasin, as well as Kotawaringin Barat, Sampit, and Palang Raya, where increased traffic and tourist spots heighten vulnerabilities. This measure aims to prevent disruptions, manage traffic congestion, and ensure safety in crowded areas through enhanced patrols and routine activities.

The Saudi Ambassador to Indonesia, Faisal Abdullah Al Amoudi, has assured that the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage will proceed safely despite escalating tensions in the Middle East following Iran's attacks on Gulf states. He emphasised that Saudi Arabia remains stable and all preparations are on track, prioritising the security of pilgrims, including the largest group from Indonesia. The ambassador condemned Iran's actions for undermining regional stability and welcomed international calls, including UN Security Council Resolution 2817, urging Iran to cease its escalatory measures.

During Eid al-Fitr celebrations, the price of celery leaves, known locally as daun sop, has surged dramatically to Rp350,000 per kilogram in Bangka due to high demand for soups, meatballs, and other broth-based dishes, while supply remains limited as few farmers cultivate the vegetable. Local vendor Rahmat noted that prices peaked at Rp400,000 per kilogram just before the holiday and have since slightly declined, with consumers typically purchasing small quantities by the ounce. This price fluctuation highlights the seasonal economic pressures on essential ingredients during festive periods in Indonesia.

PT Jasamarga Jalanlayang Cikampek has recorded a significant surge in vehicle volume on the Mohammed Bin Zayed (MBZ) elevated toll road towards Jakarta, with 56,611 vehicles heading to the capital during the Eid al-Fitr 2026 return flow, marking a 139.41% increase from normal levels. This indicates the start of the post-holiday return traffic phase, with total vehicles on both directions reaching 97,433, an overall rise from typical conditions. Authorities advise drivers to ensure vehicle readiness, sufficient fuel or battery charge, and caution against potential rain to ensure safe travels.

Bank Indonesia is lowering the cash purchase threshold for US dollars against the rupiah to US$50,000 per participant per month from April 2026 to mitigate geopolitical volatility's impact on the currency's depreciation. Accompanying measures include raising thresholds for DNDF/forward and swap transactions to US$10 million, aiming to enhance monitoring of medium-to-large forex deals while expanding hedging options in the domestic market. Economists view these policies as effective for short-term pressure relief but emphasise that sustained rupiah strengthening requires improved global sentiment and capital inflows, given the external pressures driving recent outflows and weakening to near-record lows.

The Philippine government has declared a national energy emergency due to threats to fuel supplies stemming from the US-Israel conflict with Iran, which has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz and disrupted global energy markets. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed an executive order to coordinate responses, forming a committee to manage the supply and distribution of essential goods amid rising fuel prices that have more than doubled since February. This measure, lasting one year, addresses the country's heavy reliance on imported oil from the Gulf, exacerbating impacts on transportation, food prices, and the economy in a region highly vulnerable to such blockades.

Grab in Singapore is set to increase fares for its metered taxi service, GrabCab, from 30 March to 31 May 2026, in response to rising fuel prices that are impacting driver earnings. The adjustment will apply to distance and waiting time components, raising the per-unit rate from S$0.26 to S$0.27, while the initial flag-down fee remains unchanged. This move aims to provide financial relief to drivers amid volatile fuel costs, with estimated fare hikes ranging from S$0.08 for short trips to S$0.80 for longer journeys.

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has revealed that the man who went viral for dancing in the kitchen of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, claiming daily earnings of Rp 6 million, actually manages seven Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG), though only one is operational. BGN has temporarily suspended that single unit due to non-compliance with technical guidelines, including improper layout and failure to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), while vowing strict oversight on the remaining six units. This incident underscores the need for professionalism in government programmes aimed at children's nutrition and education, rather than treating them as profit-driven ventures.

On the second day after Lebaran, PT Jasa Marga Jogja-Bawen has opened the functional Ambarawa-GT Bawen toll road on Lane B from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM WIB to ease the return flow of four-wheeled vehicles travelling from Yogyakarta-Semarang towards western Central Java, DKI Jakarta, and West Java. This temporary measure addresses the increased traffic during the post-holiday period on the Trans Java Toll Road. It highlights ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and traffic management in Indonesia during peak travel seasons.

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) has shown balanced probabilities of gains and losses on the first trading day after the long Eid al-Fitr holiday, with five instances of strengthening and five of weakening between 2016 and 2025. The Indonesian stock exchange will reopen on Wednesday (25/3/2026) following the closure since 18 March 2026, allowing the market to adjust to global macroeconomic dynamics that continued during the break. This post-holiday movement reflects price adjustments to external sentiments, economic data releases, and international policies.

The Indonesian government, through Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno, has reaffirmed President Prabowo Subianto's directive to maintain in-person schooling and essential medical services during the ongoing global crisis, emphasising the prevention of learning loss and the optimisation of education. This approach prioritises national transformation agendas, including food and energy self-sufficiency, alongside significant investments in human resource development in health and education. Additionally, the government is accelerating bureaucratic reforms, such as electronic governance, efficiency measures, and flexible working arrangements to enhance public services and equitable development.

Former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas was briefly granted house arrest by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) just before Eid al-Fitr, allowing him to celebrate the holiday at home and perform the traditional sungkem to his mother, while dozens of other KPK detainees remained confined in the detention facility. This decision, made at his family's request, has sparked allegations of preferential treatment, as Yaqut was returned to the KPK detention centre after four days following a medical examination. The case involves corruption allegations related to Hajj quotas, highlighting ongoing concerns about equity in the handling of high-profile suspects.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has declared a national energy emergency in response to the Middle East conflict, particularly the US-Israel attack on Iran, which threatens the country's energy supplies amid global market uncertainties and rising oil prices. The declaration, effective for one year, empowers the government to expedite fuel procurement, form a committee for essential goods distribution, and monitor economic impacts like peso depreciation and potential inflation. This move comes amid criticisms of the government's preparedness and planned protests by transport workers and consumers over fuel price hikes.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. of the Philippines has declared a national energy emergency in response to potential fuel supply disruptions from escalating conflicts in the Middle East, particularly threats to the Strait of Hormuz. The declaration, via Executive Order No. 110, empowers the government to implement swift measures including supply management, anti-hoarding enforcement, and acceleration of renewable energy transitions to safeguard the economy. This one-year measure underscores the country's vulnerability as a net importer of petroleum products amid global geopolitical tensions.

The Klaten Regency Government organised a traditional shadow puppet performance on Tuesday Kliwon night at the RSPD Klaten courtyard, drawing hundreds of spectators including returning holidaymakers, as part of efforts to preserve local culture during Eid al-Fitr celebrations. Featuring puppeteers Ki KRAT Radyo Adinegoro and Ki Gendreh Kemasan with the story of Tunggul Wulung, the event was attended by local officials and cultural figures, highlighting the enduring appeal of wayang kulit amid modern entertainment options. The regent emphasised the importance of cultural appreciation, community unity, and participation in regional development to pass on these traditions to future generations.

A 20-year-old woman with the initials JSLP, suspected of experiencing depression, was detained by police in front of the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta and subsequently referred to Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital (RSCM) for psychiatric treatment. During examination, authorities discovered a mental health record book in her bag and a two-metre white rope believed to be intended for suicide, along with her repeated expressions of wanting to end her life. The case highlights the intersection of mental health issues and past sexual harassment reports, where the perpetrator's marriage to her led to the case being dropped, underscoring broader concerns about victim support and psychological care in Indonesia.