Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 March 2026

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KPK Grants Gus Yaqut's Request to Spend Eid at Home: Suffers from Acute GERD and Asthma

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has explained that former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, known as Gus Yaqut, was granted house arrest status during Eid 2026 due to his acute GERD and asthma conditions, as part of the strategy in handling the hajj quota corruption case. Yaqut, who returned to KPK detention on 24 March 2026 after medical checks, is one of the suspects in the case involving over Rp 1 trillion in state losses, alongside his special staff Gus Alex. The KPK plans to hold a press conference on 25 March 2026 to update on the investigation's progress, while Yaqut has filed a pre-trial motion challenging his suspect status.

Lebaran 2026 Return Flow: Transport Minister Urges Three-Axle Trucks to Comply with Restrictions

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has warned logistics operators to adhere to operational restrictions on three-axle or more goods vehicles during the peak Lebaran 2026 return flow period from 13 to 29 March, aiming to ensure smooth traffic and road safety. Peak traffic is anticipated on 24, 25, and 27 March, with authorities like Jasa Marga and police enforcing compliance amid reports of violations. The government encourages travellers to plan departures wisely and utilise work-from-anywhere options to alleviate congestion, highlighting ongoing dynamic monitoring at key transport nodes.

Under House Arrest During Eid, Yaqut Grateful to Perform Sungkem

Former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas was briefly granted house arrest status by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) ahead of Eid al-Fitr, allowing him to celebrate the holiday at home and perform the traditional sungkem to his mother, which he described as a tremendous blessing. However, on Tuesday, he was returned to KPK detention in Jakarta after the commission cited the need to ensure the smooth and swift handling of his corruption case involving alleged Hajj quota irregularities. The decision followed a health assessment revealing Yaqut's acute GERD and asthma conditions, highlighting the KPK's balancing of humanitarian considerations with legal proceedings.

KPK Reveals Reasons for Gus Yaqut's Return to Detention

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revoked the house arrest status of former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, known as Gus Yaqut, and returned him to KPK's detention facility to expedite the investigation into the alleged Hajj quota corruption case from 2023 and 2024. This move follows a health assessment and is timed ahead of scheduled questioning and significant progress announcements, amid public controversy over his prior house arrest. The case involves suspected manipulation of Hajj quotas for fees, resulting in state losses of Rp622 billion, with Gus Yaqut and his aide implicated under anti-corruption laws.

Eid Security Expanded, Covering Tourist Spots to Pilgrimage Sites

The Indonesian government is broadening security measures during this year's Eid al-Fitr period to include tourist destinations and pilgrimage sites, in addition to traditional mudik routes and shopping centres, due to increased public mobility and dispersed crowds. In South Sumatra, the regional police are implementing Operation Ketupat Musi 2026 to secure areas such as lakes, hills, cemeteries, waterways, and empty residential zones across districts like Musi Rawas, Ogan Ilir, Pagar Alam, and Palembang. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure safe and orderly post-Eid activities, with specific actions including traffic management, child safety reminders, and patrols to prevent crime.

Celebrating Eid at Home, Not in KPK Detention, Yaqut: An Extraordinary Blessing

Former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas expressed profound gratitude for being allowed to celebrate Eid al-Fitr 1447 H under house arrest instead of in KPK detention, enabling him to pay respects to his mother. The KPK granted the family's request for house arrest starting 19 March, but Yaqut was returned to full detention following medical examinations on 24 March. This case highlights the procedural flexibility in corruption investigations involving high-profile figures in Indonesia.

KPK States Gus Yaqut Suffers from Acute GERD and Asthma

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, known as Gus Yaqut, is suffering from acute gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and asthma, which contributed to his transfer to house arrest amid an ongoing corruption probe into Hajj quotas. However, he was returned to KPK detention ahead of key investigative developments scheduled for the following day, with potential significant announcements expected in an upcoming press conference. The case involves alleged manipulation of Hajj quotas for 2023 and 2024, resulting in state losses of Rp622 billion through illicit fees imposed on Hajj travel organisers and passed onto pilgrims.

Revealed: Netanyahu's 'Charm' That Led Trump to Attack Iran, With This Promise

A New York Times report has exposed how Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convinced US President Donald Trump to launch joint strikes on Iran through promises of a swift coup orchestrated by Mossad to topple the Tehran regime in days. Despite scepticism from US intelligence and Israeli military analysts, the plan has faltered, with Iran's government remaining intact despite the assassination of top leaders like Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, leading to systematic retaliations and growing frustrations among the allies. The failure has heightened tensions in the Middle East, drawing condemnation from Russia and underscoring the risks of such high-stakes interventions.

European Energy Prices Fluctuate Amid Shifting US-Iran Signals

European energy prices experienced sharp fluctuations on Monday due to rapidly changing signals from the US and Iran, causing oil and gas markets to swing multiple times and impacting investor expectations and equity markets. Brent crude oil prices surged above $113 per barrel early in trading amid fears of supply disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, before plummeting over 10% following President Trump's announcement of productive talks and a five-day delay on strikes against Iranian energy infrastructure, only to rebound and fall again after Iran's denial and retaliation warnings. This volatility also affected European gas prices and stock indices like the FTSE 100 and DAX, highlighting the profound influence of geopolitical developments on global energy and financial markets, with future trends hinging on diplomatic efforts to ease tensions.

KPK Announces Health Examination Results for Yaqut: Suffers from Acute GERD

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has disclosed that Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, the suspect in the alleged hajj quota corruption case and former Minister of Religious Affairs, suffers from acute GERD and asthma, leading to the approval of his transfer from state detention to house arrest. This decision considers his health condition alongside case management needs. The case involves an estimated state loss of Rp622 billion from irregularities in Indonesia's 2023-2024 hajj quota, with Yaqut and his aide Gus Alex named as suspects.

Indonesia urges logistics firms to follow Eid transport rules

Indonesia's Transportation Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has called on logistics companies to adhere to a joint decree restricting freight vehicles with three or more axles from operating between 13 and 29 March 2026, aiming to ensure smooth and safe traffic during the Eid al-Fitr return flow. The policy, issued by the Ministry of Transportation, National Police, and Ministry of Public Works, targets peak travel waves on 24, 25, and 27 March, with an estimated 143.9 million people expected to travel. This measure underscores the government's efforts to manage congestion, enhance road safety, and promote orderly mobility during the holiday period.

Global Gold Price Records Worst Week Since 1983 Amid Geopolitical Tensions

Global gold prices have plummeted by approximately 11% over the past week, marking the worst performance since 1983, despite escalating geopolitical uncertainties from the US-Israel conflict with Iran, which has seen prices drop over 14% since the conflict began. This unusual decline for the traditional safe-haven asset is attributed to rising energy costs prompting central banks, including the US Federal Reserve, to maintain high interest rates longer, alongside a strengthening US dollar that boosts yield-bearing alternatives like bonds. The shift in investor sentiment highlights how persistent high rates and currency strength can override crisis-driven demand for gold.

KPK's Response to Potential Secret Return of Gus Yaqut to House Arrest

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has addressed concerns over former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas potentially reverting to house arrest without public knowledge by officially returning him to KPK's detention centre to ensure legal certainty and expedite the investigation into the alleged Hajj quota corruption case. This move follows a brief house arrest period during which Yaqut spent Eid with his family, but was revoked to facilitate intensive examinations. The development has prompted former Deputy Minister of Manpower Immanuel Ebenezer, known as Noel, to apply for similar house arrest status in his separate extortion case.

Yaqut's Smile as He Returns to KPK Detention

Former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas was observed smiling during his transfer back to KPK detention on Tuesday, following a brief period of house arrest over the Idul Fitri holiday. This marks the second such transfer for Yaqut since his initial detention on 12 March 2026, amid an ongoing corruption investigation related to Hajj quotas. The case highlights the KPK's handling of high-profile suspects and the balance between legal proceedings and family considerations.

Indonesia urges logistics firms to follow Eid transport rules

Indonesia's Minister of Transportation, Dudy, has urged logistics companies to adhere to new restrictions on freight vehicles during the 2026 Eid al-Fitr holiday period, as outlined in a joint decree by the Ministry of Transportation, National Police, and Ministry of Public Works. These measures, limiting operations of vehicles with three or more axles from 13 to 29 March, aim to ensure smooth traffic flow and road safety amid an expected 143.9 million travellers. The government encourages spreading travel times and compliance with traffic rules to mitigate congestion and enhance overall mobility during the peak return waves on 24, 25, and 27 March.

Researcher: President embraces national figures during Eid to maintain political stability

Senior researcher Lili Romli from BRIN's Political Research Centre has praised President Prabowo Subianto's initiative to host an open dialogue with national figures during the Eid al-Fitr halalbihalal event at the Presidential Palace, stating that it fosters political and security stability. She emphasised that such two-way dialogues should continue beyond the 21 March gathering to build mutual understanding among Indonesians for a secure, advanced, and prosperous nation, while also serving as a platform for the president to explain current policies. Romli expressed confidence that Prabowo will genuinely consider inputs from various leaders, warning that ignoring them could undermine the process, amid meetings with former presidents like SBY, Jokowi, and Megawati.

Outrage Over Discovery of Ancient Ostrich Eggshells, Revealing Early Human Intelligence

A groundbreaking study on intricately engraved ostrich eggshell fragments from southern Africa, dating back 60,000 years, demonstrates that early Homo sapiens possessed structured geometric thinking, with patterns featuring grids, diamonds, and parallel lines. Researchers from the University of Bologna analysed over 1,300 etchings, revealing advanced cognitive abilities such as rotation, translation, and hierarchical design, which laid the foundations for abstract thought and symbolic systems. This discovery highlights a crucial milestone in human cognitive evolution, bridging ancient creativity to the development of art, decoration, and eventually writing.

WMO: Earth Absorbing Excess Heat, Global Temperature at Risk of Breaking Record

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has warned that Earth is absorbing more heat than it releases, driven by the accumulation of greenhouse gases, leading to record-high energy imbalances and the warmest 11-year period since 1850. This situation, exacerbated by human activities, threatens new global temperature records especially with the anticipated return of El Niño in late 2026, prompting calls from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for a swift transition to renewable energy to avert climate catastrophe. The impacts include accelerating ocean warming, melting polar ice, intensified storms, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events like heatwaves exceeding 40°C in the southwestern United States.

Who Will Be Affected by the WFH Rules for Civil Servants and Private Sector

The Indonesian government plans to implement a work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants and encourage private sector adoption starting after Eid al-Fitr, aiming to save energy amid rising global oil prices by reducing fuel consumption by approximately 20%. Business leaders, including Kadin's Sarman Simanjorang, warn that the policy could dampen household consumption, particularly impacting transportation and office-based UMKM in food and beverages, potentially hindering economic growth in the second quarter of 2026. While the policy applies only one day per week to balance productivity and flexibility, it excludes public service sectors and has been introduced without private sector consultation, prompting calls for mitigation measures to meet national growth targets.

Taiwan to skip WTO conference after labelled 'Province of China'

Taiwan has decided to boycott a high-level World Trade Organization (WTO) meeting in Cameroon for the first time, following a dispute over visa documents that labelled the island as "Taiwan, Province of China," a designation reflecting China's territorial claims. The Taiwanese foreign ministry lodged a stern protest, highlighting inaccuracies in the paperwork and accusing Cameroon of lacking sincerity in resolving the issue, ultimately prioritizing national dignity over attendance. This incident underscores ongoing tensions in international forums regarding Taiwan's status as a separate customs territory within the WTO, potentially impacting its participation in global trade discussions.

Local One-Way System Implemented on Semarang-Kalikangkung Toll Road

PT Jasamarga Transjawa Tol (JTT), in collaboration with the police, has introduced a discretionary local one-way traffic system on sections of the Semarang Toll Road (Sections A, B, C) up to the Batang-Semarang Toll Road to manage increased vehicle volumes during the Lebaran return flow period. This measure, effective from KM 425+800 to KM 414 at Kalikangkung Gate starting at 10:12 WIB, aims to alleviate congestion around Semarang, with additional preparations including operational staff, toll gate services, and a contraflow on the Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road. The traffic engineering is situational and adjustable based on real-time conditions to ensure smooth flow towards Jakarta.

Traffic on Cipali Toll Road to Jakarta Increases on Tuesday Morning

Traffic volumes on the Cikopo–Palimanan (Cipali) toll road in West Java heading towards Jakarta surged significantly on Tuesday morning (24/3), with one-way traffic to the capital recording a 167% increase compared to the previous day, reaching approximately 36,000 vehicles between midnight and 9:00 AM. Overall traffic in both directions rose by 36%, reflecting a notable return flow of vehicles. Astra Tol Cipali has urged drivers to prioritise safety by maintaining safe distances, following traffic rules and signs, avoiding lane changes during one-way operations, and utilising designated rest areas to prevent accidents and ensure smooth flow.

PNM's Clean Water Programme Boosts Community Business Productivity

PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) has reaffirmed its commitment to providing clean water and proper sanitation to underprivileged communities across Indonesia, particularly on World Water Day. Through initiatives in 28 locations in 2025, the programme builds sanitation facilities and clean water sources, enhancing health, environmental cleanliness, and the productivity of household-based businesses reliant on water. This holistic approach integrates economic empowerment with improved quality of life, supporting sustainable development and greater welfare for beneficiaries.

Return Traffic from Eid Exodus at Bakauheni Port Begins to Increase on H+2 Lebaran

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry reports a significant uptick in passenger and vehicle traffic at Bakauheni Port on H+2 of Eid al-Fitr 2026, with 51,751 passengers and 14,094 vehicles crossing, marking increases of 30.5% and 45.3% respectively compared to the previous year. The surge, particularly in motorcycles and logistics vehicles, is being managed smoothly through adaptive operational controls and traffic diversions to alternative ports. This indicates the start of the peak return phase of the annual mudik migration, underscoring the importance of Indonesia's ferry infrastructure in facilitating mass travel during national holidays.

Rest Area at KM 52B on Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road Temporarily Closed

PT Jasamarga Transjawa Tol (JTT) has temporarily closed the rest area at KM 52B on the Jakarta-Cikampek toll road towards Jakarta to ensure smooth traffic flow during the Eid al-Fitr 1447H return period. The decision, made in coordination with the police, aims to prevent vehicle queues that could disrupt the main lanes, with ongoing monitoring for situational adjustments. JTT advises toll users to plan their journeys, utilise alternative rest areas, and stay informed via the Travoy app or Jasa Marga's 24-hour hotline.

Predicted Traffic Jam at KM 70, Returnees Advised to Avoid Returning on 24 March

Police Traffic Corps Head Irjen Pol Agus Suryonugroho has predicted significant congestion at KM 70 of the Cikampek Main Toll Road during the 2026 return flow, primarily due to high vehicle volumes on 24 March amid the implementation of the national one-way system starting at 2:00 PM WIB. Authorities, including the Directorate General of Land Transportation, urge travellers not to concentrate their return on that date and highlight ongoing traffic engineering measures like local and national one-way systems on the Trans Java Toll Road to ease the flow. Motorists are advised to maintain safe distances, adhere to speed limits, ensure sufficient e-toll balances, and follow traffic directions for safety.

Ex-CIA Boss Criticises Trump: He Created the Oil Crisis in the Middle East

Former US Defence Secretary and CIA Director Leon Panetta has sharply criticised President Donald Trump for initiating a war with Iran that has led to a self-inflicted oil crisis by closing the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting one-fifth of global oil trade. Panetta argues that Trump's naive approach has trapped him in a no-win situation, with rising fuel prices eroding his domestic support and no clear exit strategy amid escalating casualties and a hardened Iranian regime. He warns that Trump must now confront the reality of expanding the conflict to reopen the strait or face undeniable failure, highlighting the folly of ignoring alliances and potential consequences.

TAUD Urges Prosecution of Andrie Yunus Case in General Court

The Advocacy Team for Democracy (TAUD) has criticised plans to investigate and prosecute the acid attack on human rights activist Andrie Yunus through the military court, arguing that it promotes impunity and undermines civilian supremacy and equality before the law. Citing examples of lenient sentences in past military trials, TAUD demands that the suspects, who are members of TNI's Strategic Intelligence Agency, be tried in the general court as per Article 65 of the TNI Law for ordinary criminal acts against civilians. Meanwhile, the TNI's Central Military Police Commander insists the case will proceed in the military court in line with the 2025 TNI Law, with four suspects already detained.

Tambrauw temporarily closes health services following attack incident

The Tambrauw District Health Office in Southwest Papua has temporarily suspended all health services after an attack by unidentified individuals on 16 March 2026, which killed two people and injured two others, including hospital staff. The closure affects one hospital, 24 community health centres, and five auxiliary centres to ensure the safety of medical personnel, with operations set to resume only once security conditions are deemed conducive by local authorities. Residents are advised to remain calm and utilise limited emergency services provided by medical staff at their residences.

Back in the Orange Vest: Yaqut Returned to KPK Detention

Former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has been returned to the Corruption Eradication Commission's (KPK) detention facility in Jakarta after a brief stint under house arrest, allowing him to spend Eid al-Fitr at home. The KPK initially granted house arrest following a family request, not due to health issues, but has now cited Yaqut's acute GERD and asthma as reasons for the temporary change, though it was reversed to ensure smooth case proceedings in the alleged Hajj quota corruption scandal. This development underscores the KPK's commitment to efficient handling of high-profile corruption cases involving public officials.

Eid Greetings to Tapal Kuda Kiais, Gus Ipul Delivers President's Regards

Social Minister and PBNU General Secretary Saifullah Yusuf (Gus Ipul) visited influential Islamic scholars in eastern East Java during the second and third days of Eid al-Fitr, conveying greetings from President Prabowo Subianto and seeking prayers for the success of the People's School programme and other pro-people initiatives. The visits, which included stops at prominent pesantrens like Zainul Hasan Genggong and Nurul Jadid, underscore the government's efforts to align social welfare policies with spiritual and moral guidance from religious leaders. Gus Ipul emphasised that these interactions go beyond Eid traditions, serving as a means to ensure government programmes reach those in need and foster broader societal benefits.

Lebaran 2026 Homecoming Traffic: Local One-Way Scheme Applies from Km 425 to 414 Kalikangkung

Traffic authorities have implemented a local one-way system on the Semarang-Batang Toll Road from kilometre 425+800 to 414 at Kalikangkung Gate starting at 10:12 WIB to alleviate congestion during the 2026 Lebaran homecoming rush. PT Jasamarga Transjawa Tol is fully supporting the police-directed traffic engineering by deploying operational staff, ensuring infrastructure readiness, and facilitating transactions at nine toll gates equipped with 37 lanes and 17 mobile readers. Motorists are advised to use rest areas wisely and rest if fatigued to ensure safe and comfortable journeys.

Energy crisis: Japan to soon release national oil reserves

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has announced the release of national oil reserves starting Thursday, amid concerns over supply disruptions from the US-Israel war against Iran. This follows the initial release of private sector reserves last week, with additional Middle Eastern oil stored in Japan to be utilised by month's end. The move underscores Japan's commitment to diplomatic efforts for Middle East stability and stable energy supplies, coordinated with international partners including the US.

Revealed: Failure of Mossad's Plan to Overthrow Iran's Government, Netanyahu Frustrated

A New York Times report has exposed Mossad's ambitious plan to incite public protests in Iran leading to the collapse of the Tehran government, which was pitched to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US officials but ultimately failed. Mossad chief David Barnea assured Netanyahu of the agency's ability to rally Iranian opposition for regime change, a strategy adopted by Netanyahu and former US President Trump despite doubts from some American and Israeli intelligence figures. The plan envisioned starting with assassinations of Iranian leaders followed by intelligence operations to force a regime shift, highlighting the high-stakes geopolitical tensions in the region.

Numerous 'Zombie' Ships Emerging in the Strait of Hormuz, What's Happening?

Amid the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran following US-Israel attacks, the global oil supply faces severe disruptions, with only vessels from China, India, and Japan permitted passage, facilitating shipments of over 11 million barrels primarily to China. The emergence of 'zombie' ships—vessels operating under false identities to evade sanctions and tracking—poses significant risks to maritime security and highlights the challenges in enforcing international regulations during heightened geopolitical tensions. This situation underscores the vulnerability of key energy trade routes and the lengths to which actors will go to maintain oil flows despite conflict.

Return Traffic: Purwomartani Toll Gate Operating Hours Extended to 8:00 PM WIB

The operating hours of the Purwomartani Toll Gate on the Yogyakarta-Solo toll road have been extended by two hours to 8:00 PM WIB from March 22 to 29, 2026, to facilitate smoother return traffic during the Lebaran holiday period. This measure aims to alleviate congestion towards Klaten and Central Java amid a significant increase in vehicles, with traffic volumes nearing 1,500 per hour and a cumulative of over 17,000 vehicles on March 23. The extension supports the functional operation of the Prambanan-Purwomartani segment, which opened on March 16, highlighting efforts to manage holiday travel in the Yogyakarta region.

Rest Area at Km 52B on Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road Temporarily Closed, Here's the Reason

PT Jasamarga Transjawa Tol (JTT) has temporarily closed the Rest Area at Km 52B on the Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road towards Jakarta to ensure smooth traffic flow during the Idul Fitri 1447 Hijriah return period. The closure, coordinated with the Indonesian Police, aims to prevent vehicle queues that could disrupt main toll road traffic, with ongoing monitoring and situational adjustments. JTT advises motorists to plan journeys using alternative rest areas and follow safety guidelines, apologising for any inconvenience.

JTT Implements Contraflow from KM 70 to KM 47 on Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road

PT Jasamarga Transjawa Tol (JTT) has introduced a one-lane contraflow from KM 70 to KM 47 towards Jakarta on the Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road, starting at 10:30 WIB, as a proactive measure to ease traffic congestion during the Eid al-Fitr 1447H/2026 return flow period. This traffic engineering initiative, directed by the Indonesian National Police, aims to ensure smoother vehicle movement back to the capital, with JTT and police monitoring conditions for potential adjustments. Motorists are advised to follow on-site instructions and traffic signs, while real-time updates are available via the Travoy app or Jasa Marga's 24-hour hotline at 133.

Takaichi Reaffirms Japan's Diplomatic Efforts to Ease Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has pledged to utilise every possible diplomatic channel, in collaboration with the international community, to de-escalate escalating tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz amid the intensifying conflict between the United States-Israel and Iran. This response follows US President Donald Trump's 48-hour ultimatum to Iran to reopen the vital oil import route, threatening strikes on its energy infrastructure, which has triggered volatility in global financial markets, including Japan. The situation is particularly critical for Japan, which relies on the Middle East for over 90% of its crude oil imports, predominantly transiting through the strait.

Papeg Health Office Hopes District Health Offices Strengthen National Programme Data

The Health Office of Papua Pegunungan province is urging the eight district health offices to improve their reporting of national health programmes, such as free health checks and free nutritious meals, via the Ministry of Health's unified data application. Acting Head Titu Kogoya highlighted that inadequate reporting leads to perceptions of inactivity at the local level, potentially affecting provincial health service achievements and funding requests. These programmes, mandated by President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, are essential for meeting minimum service standards, with proper documentation ensuring smoother coordination and support from the central government.

Public Transport Passengers Surge by 80 Percent, Peak Return Flow Predicted for Tuesday Night

Public transport passengers returning to Jakarta after Eid holidays have increased by 80 percent compared to normal conditions, with the peak influx expected on Tuesday night. Jakarta Transportation Agency Head Syafrin Liputo reported heightened activity across seven terminals, including Kampung Rambutan and Pulogebang, affecting routes to and from Java and Sumatra. Authorities urge passengers to use official terminal services and remain vigilant against crime to ensure safety during the busy period.

Ministry of Transmigration Strengthens Indonesia-Qatar Synergy for Integrated Education Infrastructure Development in Rempang

The Indonesian Ministry of Transmigration is accelerating the construction of comprehensive educational facilities in the Batam, Rempang, and Galang transmigration area, including ongoing primary school builds and planned junior and senior high schools with support from the Qatari government. Collaborations with leading Indonesian universities will bring diploma and bachelor's programmes directly to the region, aiming to enhance local human resources and foster entrepreneurship among the youth. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to transforming transmigration areas into sustainable growth centres with quality education access.

Post-Eid, Return Traffic Begins

Following the conclusion of Eid al-Fitr celebrations, migrant workers are returning to Jakarta and other major cities, marking the start of the post-holiday return traffic flow. Traffic volumes on the Cikopo-Palimanan Toll Road surged by 161.5% on Monday morning compared to the previous day, prompting the implementation of a one-way system from 5:08 PM to facilitate smoother movement towards Jakarta. Authorities urge drivers to prioritise safety, maintain safe distances, and follow on-site instructions during this period of heightened congestion.

How to Register for an NPWP Online in 2026, Possible Using a Mobile Phone!

The Indonesian Directorate General of Taxes has updated the process for registering a Taxpayer Identification Number (NPWP) to be done online via the Coretax platform, accessible through mobile phones, replacing the previous e-Registration system. This guide outlines the requirements for individuals, government institutions, and entities, including necessary documents like ID cards, passports, and establishment deeds, emphasizing ease of access for various categories such as employees, businesses, and branches. The step-by-step online registration simplifies tax administration, promoting compliance by integrating with the National ID Number (NIK) for verification and activation.

KPK Reveals Reasons for Yaqut's House Arrest: GERD and Case Handling Strategy

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has disclosed that former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, known as Gus Yaqut, was placed under house arrest due to health concerns, including acute Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and asthma, as confirmed by a medical assessment. This decision also factors in strategies to facilitate smoother case handling in the ongoing corruption investigation related to Hajj quotas. Yaqut is scheduled for further questioning as a suspect, with KPK aiming to expedite the proceedings.

Celebrating Eid at Home, Gus Yaqut: Alhamdulillah, I Could Pay Respects to My Mother

Former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, alias Gus Yaqut, expressed gratitude for being allowed house arrest during Eid, enabling him to celebrate with his family and pay respects to his mother, following a family request granted under the Criminal Procedure Code. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has since revoked his house arrest status, returning him to KPK detention after medical checks, amid an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption in the allocation of additional Hajj quotas for 2024. The decision has drawn criticism from legal experts and former KPK investigators for lacking transparency and potentially implying special treatment.

Gus Yaqut Returns to KPK, Grateful to Celebrate Eid at Home

Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, the suspect in the alleged Hajj quota corruption case, returned to the KPK's Merah Putih Building after spending Eid at home under house arrest, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate with his family. He confirmed that the arrangement was made at his family's request, allowing him to seek forgiveness from his mother during the holiday. This development follows reports from other detainees, including the wife of a co-defendant, who noted his absence from the detention facility around the Eid period, sparking curiosity among inmates.

Police Chief Inspects Return Flow of Eid Exodus in Bali

Indonesian National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo visited Bali to inspect the integrated TNI-Polri Post and 91 Command Center in Nusa Dua, Badung, as part of monitoring the return flow of the 2026 Eid al-Fitr exodus. He was welcomed by Bali's Deputy Governor I Nyoman Giri Prasta, Bali Police Chief Irjen Daniel Adityajaya, and other officials, before reviewing incoming vehicles at the command centre. Following the Bali visit, Listyo is scheduled to continue inspections in Semarang, Central Java, with the National Traffic Corps Chief also in attendance, underscoring the government's commitment to ensuring smooth and safe travel during the holiday period.

257,546 Vehicles Enter Sumatra via Toll Road in Three Days of Eid

During the three-day Eid al-Fitr period from 23 March 2026, a total of 257,546 vehicles entered Sumatra via the Trans-Sumatra Toll Road, marking a 184.20% increase compared to normal traffic. Significant surges were observed on key sections such as Padang-Sicincin (up 459.85%) and Sigli-Banda Aceh (up 455.03%), reflecting heightened travel demand during the holiday. Hutama Karya is continuously monitoring traffic to ensure safe and smooth operations on the toll roads amid the return flow of travellers.

US Petrol Prices Rise 30% Due to Middle East War, Approaching Rp 18,000 per Litre

Petrol prices in the United States have surged over 30% since the Middle East conflict erupted in late February 2026, reaching an average of $3.92 per gallon, equivalent to approximately Rp 17,530 per litre. Analysts predict prices could soon breach the $4 per gallon mark, exacerbating inflationary pressures on consumers amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. This escalation, driven by disruptions in oil supplies from the Strait of Hormuz due to attacks by Iran, poses a significant political challenge for President Donald Trump and the Republican Party ahead of the November 2026 midterm elections.