Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has assured that the Strait of Hormuz remains open for non-US and non-Israel affiliated vessels, following a de facto blockade triggered by recent US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets. This escalation, which began on 28 February with attacks causing civilian casualties in Tehran, prompted Iranian retaliatory strikes and has disrupted oil and LNG exports from Persian Gulf nations to global markets. The move underscores Iran's efforts to secure maritime navigation while coordinating with neutral shipping, potentially impacting regional energy trade dynamics.

Traffic volumes on the Cikopo-Palimanan (Cipali) Toll Road in West Java towards Jakarta surged by 167% on Tuesday morning (H+2 post-Eid al-Fitr) compared to the previous day, with around 36,000 vehicles recorded between midnight and 9 a.m. Overall traffic in both directions increased by 36%, prompting toll operator Astra Tol Cipali to urge drivers to prioritise safety, maintain safe distances, obey traffic arrangements, and avoid lane changes or stopping on the shoulder during one-way operations. Rest areas are available at multiple kilometre markers to support safe travel during this peak period.

The article explores the Indonesian tradition of Eid al-Fitr celebrations, which extend beyond family gatherings to include vibrant cemetery visits where flowers symbolise love, longing, and respect for the deceased. This practice not only fosters social interactions and cultural continuity but also supports a seasonal micro-economy for flower vendors and farmers, highlighting the interplay between tradition, emotion, and community maintenance. By beautifying graveyards and marking family ties, these customs underscore Indonesia's unique approach to blending life, death, and spirituality in a warm, communal manner.

US President Donald Trump has expressed optimism about the imminent reopening of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, which was disrupted by conflicts involving Iran, the US, and Israel, proposing joint control between the US and Iran following positive negotiations with Tehran. He highlighted potential leadership changes in Iran and claimed ongoing talks with reasonable Iranian officials could lead to de-escalation, amid the strait handling 20% of global oil distribution and hundreds of ships currently stranded. This development holds significant implications for global energy markets and regional stability in the Persian Gulf.

The Ministry of Public Works (PU) has completed the second phase of development at Malalayang Beach in Manado, North Sulawesi, extending the organised beach walk to 2 kilometres and enhancing public facilities to boost tourism and local business opportunities. Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo highlighted that the improvements not only beautify the area but also support economic growth through increased visitor numbers and entrepreneurial prospects for residents. This initiative, part of broader efforts to improve tourism infrastructure, includes additional amenities like playgrounds, theatres, and a diving centre, with similar enhancements underway at Bunaken to improve accessibility.

Former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas returned to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) headquarters on Tuesday to resume detention in the holding facility after a brief period under house arrest. He arrived wearing an orange detainee vest and expressed gratitude for being able to pay respects to his mother before being escorted inside. The shift back to facility detention followed a health check at Bhayangkara Police Hospital in East Jakarta, highlighting the procedural aspects of his corruption-related case.

Former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, known as Gus Yaqut, has returned to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) detention facility in Jakarta after a brief period of house arrest granted at his family's request. The move back to full custody followed a health check and was not due to any medical condition, according to KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo. This development underscores ongoing anti-corruption proceedings involving high-profile political figures in Indonesia.

Indonesia's Downstream Oil and Gas Regulatory Agency (BPH Migas) has assured that the national supply of fuel oil (BBM) remains ample and well-managed across the country during the 2026 Eid al-Fitr holiday period, with smooth distribution from Pertamina's terminals to petrol stations. In West Kalimantan, where initial surges in demand caused queues, operations have been intensified, including 24-hour service at select stations, leading to improving conditions and normalised supplies in most areas. This coordinated effort between government bodies and Pertamina underscores a commitment to preventing disruptions, curbing panic buying, and ensuring fair access to fuel amid heightened travel demands.

The peak of the post-Eid al-Fitr return flow at Jakarta's Integrated Terminal Pulo Gebang is expected to begin next week, coinciding with the end of the Lebaran holiday period and the Work From Anywhere policy. Currently, the return passenger numbers remain low, with only 385 arrivals via 124 AKAP buses, though preparations including 85 personnel from internal, TNI, and Polri units are in place to handle the anticipated surge. This follows a high departure of 2,436 passengers on Eid day, but numbers dropped significantly this morning to 59 passengers on five buses, highlighting the terminal's role in managing Indonesia's major seasonal travel disruptions.

An Indian semiconductor firm, RRP Semiconductor, has seen its share price skyrocket by over 65,000% in under three years, surging from around Rp2,800 to Rp1.8 million per share, driven by online hype and limited liquidity rather than strong fundamentals. The Bombay Stock Exchange has placed the stock under enhanced surveillance measures, including a ban on intraday trading and 100% margin requirements, to curb excessive speculation and volatility. This case serves as a cautionary tale for retail investors in emerging markets, highlighting risks of pump-and-dump schemes amid weak corporate governance and discrepancies in financial reporting.

PT MRT Jakarta is marking MRT Day on 24 March with a special promotional fare of Rp243 for trips paid via the MyMRTJ app or designated partners like Kredivo, blu by BCA Digital, and GoPay, limited to one use per user. The celebration, running until 24 April 2026, includes various events culminating in a public festival on 25-26 April, under the campaign 'Melaju Menyatukan Masa Depan Kota' to highlight the system's role in sustainable urban mobility since its 2019 launch. This initiative underscores MRT Jakarta's commitment to enhancing public transport accessibility and community engagement.

The Downstream Oil and Gas Regulatory Body (BPH Migas) has confirmed that fuel supplies, particularly petroleum products, are well-managed along the busy Bogor-Puncak-Cianjur tourist route during the Eid al-Fitr holiday period in 2026. Direct monitoring at key fuel stations revealed no disruptions in delivery or distribution, with supplies sourced from the Plumpang Terminal adequately meeting demands for mudik travel, returns, and tourism. Pertamina has bolstered services like emergency fuel delivery to mitigate congestion issues, while emphasising the importance of prudent consumption to avoid artificial shortages.

The Bandung Regency Transportation Agency forecasts the first peak of return traffic on the Nagreg route from Garut and Tasikmalaya to occur today, coinciding with the last day of the holiday before work resumes. A second peak is expected over the weekend of 28-29 March, with police implementing a segmented one-way system on the southern route to manage congestion on the winding roads. This measure aims to ensure smoother vehicle flow during periods of slowdown by diverting queues towards Tasikmalaya.

Asian stock markets climbed on Tuesday following US President Donald Trump's announcement of a five-day delay in strikes on Iranian energy sites after reported talks with Tehran, boosting hopes for de-escalation in the Middle East conflict and potential reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. However, oil prices rebounded over three per cent amid Iranian denials of any negotiations and ongoing disruptions to shipping, underscoring persistent uncertainty in global energy supplies. Meanwhile, the European Union and Australia finalised a free trade deal and defence cooperation agreement, aiming to enhance exports and security amid broader trade tensions.

US President Donald Trump is pushing for lower interest rates from the Federal Reserve, but escalating oil prices due to the ongoing conflict with Iran in the Middle East are likely to fuel inflation, prompting the central bank to delay any rate reductions. This situation underscores the Fed's cautious approach to monetary policy amid energy-driven inflationary pressures. The analysis is featured in CNBC Indonesia's Big Stories of The Week programme from 22 March 2026.

The Indonesian government, through Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi, has urged logistics operators to comply with restrictions on three-axle or more goods vehicles using toll roads during the Lebaran return flow period from 13 to 29 March 2026, aiming to ensure smooth traffic and safety amid predicted peak waves on 24, 25, and 27 March. The minister appreciated the adherence from businesses and police enforcement, emphasising coordinated efforts for safe and orderly mobility. Public calls include planning travel to avoid peaks and following on-site instructions, as some violations persist according to toll operator reports.

Iran has firmly denied any recent talks with the United States, contradicting President Donald Trump's announcement of productive discussions that led him to delay military strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure for five days. Iranian sources claim Trump's statements are a ploy to reduce global energy prices and buy time for military plans amid escalating regional conflict, which has already resulted in over 1,340 deaths since joint US-Israeli attacks on Iran in late February. This dispute highlights deepening tensions in the Middle East, with potential implications for international energy markets and ongoing retaliatory actions involving drones and missiles.

The Downstream Oil and Gas Regulatory Agency (BPH Migas) has assured that fuel stocks are sufficient along the Bandung West toll road in West Java ahead of the peak Lebaran return flow this week. Monitoring revealed a 5-10% increase in Pertalite and Pertamax consumption at key service stations, offset by a 30% drop in Biosolar due to restrictions on large vehicles, with mobile storage units deployed to maintain supply. Quality checks confirmed that all fuels meet standards, ensuring safe and reliable refuelling for travellers returning to cities like Bandung and Jakarta.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is developing a personal AI agent designed to function like a chief of staff, assisting with information access, data analysis, and decision-making to streamline operations in the company's vast organisation of nearly 79,000 employees. This initiative aligns with Meta's broader push to integrate AI tools for efficiency, including reducing management layers, while raising concerns about the future of managerial roles as AI encroaches on strategic positions. Amid these advancements, Meta is considering significant layoffs of up to 20% of its workforce to offset rising AI infrastructure costs.

The Yogyakarta Regional Police Traffic Directorate has extended the operational hours of the functional Purwomartani Toll Gate until 8:00 PM from 22 to 29 March 2026 to manage the increased vehicle volume during the Lebaran return flow. This measure addresses significant traffic surges, with nearly 1,500 vehicles per hour passing through the gate on the Yogyakarta-Solo toll road, aiming to distribute traffic more evenly and reduce congestion towards Klaten and Central Java. The temporary extension from the previous 12-hour schedule supports safer and smoother travel for light vehicles during the holiday period, as the toll remains under functional operation without full completion.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has engaged in a phone conversation with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to extend Eid al-Fitr greetings, underscoring Indonesia's steadfast support for the Palestinian people. This communication, part of a broader series of outreach to leaders from Muslim-friendly nations including Egypt, the UAE, Malaysia, Turkey, Pakistan, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia, aims to strengthen bilateral ties and promote regional peace and stability. The gesture highlights Indonesia's commitment to fostering international cooperation, particularly during significant religious occasions.

In the face of accelerating globalisation, the Sekura Cakak Buah mask festival in West Lampung endures as a powerful symbol of local identity, community, and cultural continuity. Held shortly after Eid al-Fitr in Pekon Muara Jaya II, the tradition fosters social reconciliation, strengthens communal bonds, and promotes a spirit of mutual cooperation through anonymous participation that transcends social differences. West Lampung Regent Parosil Mabsus expressed pride in the youth's pivotal role in sustaining the festival, viewing their involvement as a promising indicator of the tradition's future amid modern cultural pressures.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is continuing a series of examinations on former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas before returning him to the KPK detention centre, pending the results of a health test conducted by doctors at Bhayangkara Hospital in East Jakarta. This follows the KPK's decision earlier this week to revert Yaqut's detention status from house arrest back to full detention in connection with an alleged corruption case involving Hajj quotas, a move prompted by a family request but not due to health issues. The change initially drew public scrutiny for lacking an open announcement, highlighting ongoing transparency concerns in high-profile corruption proceedings.

The peak of the Lebaran 2026 return flow is expected to intensify from 24 March, with traffic volumes already surging on the Trans Java Toll Road as vehicles head back to Jabodetabek. Authorities are implementing measures such as additional toll gates, one-way systems, and up to 30% toll discounts to manage congestion, while encouraging the public to stagger their journeys by leveraging Work From Anywhere (WFA) policies. This coordinated response highlights the government's efforts to ensure smoother travel amid record-high holiday traffic.

The price of Antam gold in Indonesia has decreased this morning, with the one-gram bar now at Rp 2,843,000, down from Rp 2,893,000 yesterday, while the buyback price stands at Rp 2,480,000 per gram. Antam offers gold bars in sizes ranging from 0.5 grams to 1 kilogram, allowing investors to tailor purchases to their needs, though prices exclude a 0.25% PPh tax, with additional income tax rates of 0.45% for those with an NPWP and 0.9% for those without. These daily updates reflect global precious metals market trends, providing key insights for investors tracking Indonesia's gold market fluctuations.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed that Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, the suspect in the alleged hajj quota corruption case and former Minister of Religious Affairs, is undergoing ongoing medical checks at Bhayangkara Hospital in East Jakarta as part of efforts to transfer him back to KPK custody from house arrest. The investigation into the case, which reportedly caused state losses of Rp622 billion according to the Supreme Audit Agency, is progressing positively with prosecutors working to complete the dossier for prosecution. This development follows concerns raised by fellow detainees about Yaqut's absence from the detention facility during Eid prayers, highlighting the KPK's balance between health considerations and anti-corruption enforcement.

Volkswagen CEO Oliver Blume has urged the German automotive sector to adopt China's disciplined and focused industrial planning strategies amid intensifying global competition, particularly in electrification and digitalisation. Despite China's market being a former growth driver for Volkswagen, the company experienced an 8% sales decline there to 2.69 million units, contrasting with growth in Europe and South America, prompting major transformations including 50,000 job cuts in Germany by 2030. Blume highlighted China's strengths in execution and systematic prioritisation as key lessons for European firms facing over 150 competitors and rapid innovations in the Chinese market.

Most Asian currencies weakened significantly against the US dollar on Tuesday morning, with the Thai baht experiencing the deepest fall of 1.24%, while the Philippine peso uniquely strengthened by 0.17%. The Indonesian rupiah, not yet trading domestically due to a post-Eid holiday, showed signs of stabilising below Rp17,000 per dollar in offshore markets. The dollar's rebound followed a temporary de-escalation in US-Iran tensions after President Trump delayed planned strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure, easing market fears of supply disruptions.

The Indonesian Ministry of Transportation, through its Director General of Land Transportation, Aan Suhanan, has urged holiday returnees to maximise work from anywhere (WFA) policies to better manage their return to the Jabodetabek area, aiming to alleviate peak traffic congestion predicted for 24 March 2026. With Jasa Marga forecasting around 285,000 vehicles entering via toll roads on that day, the ministry encourages returns on 25, 26, or 27 March, particularly for government, SOE, and private sector employees. Additional advice includes proper use of rest areas and avoiding roadside stops to ensure a safe and smooth traffic flow.

The price of Antam gold remained stable at Rp 2,843,000 per gram on Tuesday, as monitored on the Logam Mulia website in Jakarta, while the buyback price dropped significantly to Rp 2,480,000 from Rp 2,560,000 per gram. This update includes detailed prices for various gold bar denominations ranging from 0.5 grams to 1 kilogram, alongside reminders of applicable taxes under PMK No. 34/PMK.10/2017, such as 1.5% PPh Article 22 for NPWP holders on buybacks over Rp 10 million. The stability in selling prices contrasts with the buyback decline, potentially influencing investor decisions in Indonesia's precious metals market amid economic fluctuations.

An advisory warns of potential tidal flooding (rob) in coastal areas, particularly Jakarta and northern Java's coast, around 28-29 March 2026, coinciding with a spring tide phase that could exacerbate sea level rises. While not unprecedented, the event poses risks to infrastructure, clean water supplies, transportation, and public health, including diseases like dengue and leptospirosis. Communities are urged to prepare logistics, emergency transport, evacuation plans, and security measures to mitigate impacts through organised, rational readiness.

PT PLN (Persero) successfully maintained reliable electricity supply across Indonesia during the Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah prayers on 21 March 2026, fulfilling its commitment to support public worship and activities amid Ramadan and Eid celebrations. Backed by a national supply capacity of 51.37 GW against a peak load of 34.77 GW, PLN ensured no disruptions at 4,429 priority locations including places of worship, transport hubs, and hospitals. Regional managers reported optimal operations with ample reserves in areas like NTB, Kalselteng, and Banten, earning appreciation from local government for enabling safe and comfortable festivities.

The peak of the return traffic following Eid al-Fitr 2026 commenced on Tuesday, 24 March, with projections exceeding 285,000 vehicles entering the Jabotabek area, surpassing the outbound peak. Indonesian police have identified three peak return periods on 24, 28, and 29 March, urging the public to utilise the government's Work From Anywhere policy and toll discounts from 26-27 March to stagger journeys and alleviate congestion. These measures, including 30% toll reductions on select Jasa Marga Group routes and others managed by ASTRA Infra, aim to enhance travel efficiency during this critical post-holiday period.

The price of Antam gold bars remained stable at Rp 2,843,000 per gram on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, unchanged from the previous day, following a recent downward trend. The buyback price dropped by Rp 80,000 to Rp 2,480,000 per gram, with transactions exceeding Rp 10 million subject to Article 22 Income Tax (PPh). This stability comes after a Rp 50,000 decline on Monday, reflecting ongoing fluctuations in the precious metals market that investors should monitor closely.

The price of Antam gold remained stable at Rp2,843,000 per gram on Tuesday morning, according to monitoring on the Logam Mulia website in Jakarta. However, the buyback price decreased to Rp2,480,000 from the previous Rp2,560,000 per gram. This update includes detailed prices for various gold bar denominations and reminders of applicable taxes under PMK No. 34/PMK.10/2017, highlighting the ongoing volatility in the precious metals market amid economic fluctuations.

Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa of East Java concluded the Idul Fitri 1447 H riyayan series by hosting a silaturahim gathering with 250 online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers at her Jemursari residence in Surabaya, demonstrating her administration's commitment to supporting informal sector workers. The event featured warm interactions, culinary offerings from local MSMEs and street vendors, and personal gestures like celebrating birthdays, highlighting the vital role these drivers play in community mobility and the regional economy. Participants, including female drivers who often serve as family breadwinners, expressed gratitude for the tangible support, while local small businesses benefited from increased sales, underscoring the initiative's broader social and economic impact.

The Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs has responded to a survey by LPEM FEB UI, where 48% of economists rated Indonesia's economy as worsening, by asserting that the country's economic fundamentals are still robust and resilient. Key supporting factors include maintained macroeconomic stability with 5.11% growth in 2025 and controlled inflation, strong domestic demand backed by fiscal stimuli, solid fiscal performance with 30.4% tax revenue growth, enhanced food and energy security, and ongoing economic transformation through downstreaming and digitalisation. This official rebuttal highlights a disconnect between expert perceptions and government optimism amid persistent economic concerns.

President Prabowo Subianto has engaged in direct communication with several Muslim world leaders, including Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, to extend Eid al-Fitr greetings, underscoring Indonesia's diplomatic outreach and support for global issues. This initiative, extending to leaders from Egypt, UAE, Malaysia, Turkey, Pakistan, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia, goes beyond mere festivity to reinforce political ties and cooperation amid shifting geopolitics. The call to Abbas particularly reaffirms Indonesia's consistent stance on the Palestinian cause, highlighting ongoing bilateral and international efforts for peace and independence.

Indonesia's National Traffic Corps (Korlantas) Polri will implement a national one-way traffic system on toll roads starting Tuesday at 14:00 WIB to manage the anticipated surge in return traffic following the Eid al-Fitr holiday, with the measure being launched by the National Police Chief and relevant ministers. Kakorlantas Irjen Agus Suryonugroho emphasised data-driven, flexible traffic management to prevent congestion, urging the public to utilise work-from-anywhere policies to stagger their returns and avoid resting on toll road shoulders for safety reasons. This approach aims to ensure a smoother, safer homecoming for the millions of mudik travellers, reducing accident risks and easing peak-hour pressures on major routes.

Gold bar prices in Indonesia have declined, with UBS gold falling to Rp2.862.000 per gram and Galeri24 to Rp2.849.000 per gram as of Tuesday morning, down from the previous day's levels of Rp2.933.000 and Rp2.920.000 respectively. This drop reflects broader market fluctuations in precious metals, impacting investors and buyers through Pegadaian. Detailed pricing for various quantities of both brands is available, highlighting accessibility for small to large investments.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is set to return former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, a suspect in the hajj quota corruption case, from house arrest to the KPK detention centre following a medical examination at the Police Hospital. KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo stated that the transfer process is underway, emphasising the agency's commitment to keeping the public informed amid ongoing developments. Former KPK investigator Praswad Nugraha has raised concerns over the unprecedented house arrest precedent, warning it could undermine anti-corruption efforts by creating legal inconsistencies and allowing suspects to potentially interfere with investigations.

The price of Antam precious metal gold remained unchanged at Rp 2,843,000 per gram on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, following a decline of Rp 153,000 over the previous five days. Meanwhile, the buyback price fell sharply to Rp 2,480,000 per gram, down Rp 80,000 from the prior day. This stability in spot prices amid a dropping buyback rate reflects ongoing volatility in the domestic gold market, influenced by global commodity trends.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has announced that Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, the suspect in the alleged Hajj quota corruption case and former Minister of Religious Affairs, is currently undergoing a health examination at the Indonesian National Police Hospital before being transferred back to detention from house arrest. KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo urged the public to await the results of the medical tests, assuring that the investigation into the Hajj quota case will continue uninterrupted, with efforts focused on completing the dossier for prosecution. This development follows reports from fellow detainees indicating Yaqut's absence from the detention facility since late March 2026, highlighting ongoing procedural steps in high-profile corruption probes involving former government officials.

A British man has accused his wife of stealing 2,323 bitcoins from his crypto wallet by secretly viewing his recovery phrase via home CCTV footage, with the assets now valued at around $158 million (Rp 2.7 trillion) due to bitcoin's price surge. The wife, in the midst of divorce proceedings, argues that bitcoin is digital and not subject to physical theft laws, leading the court to dismiss the initial claim but allow the case to proceed on alternative legal grounds. This high-profile dispute highlights the legal challenges in protecting and recovering cryptocurrency assets amid rising values and sophisticated security breaches.

PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM), a state-owned enterprise, is reinforcing its commitment to providing clean water and sanitation access to underprivileged communities in Indonesia, particularly to support the productivity of micro-businesses. On World Water Day, PNM announced plans to implement the programme at 28 locations across the country in 2025, focusing on building sanitation facilities and water sources that benefit household-based enterprises reliant on clean water, such as culinary and agricultural processing ventures. This initiative underscores a holistic approach to empowerment, integrating economic financing with essential infrastructure to enhance health, livelihoods, and sustainable development.

Indonesia's rupiah faces heightened vulnerability due to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly involving Iran, which could drive oil prices higher and trigger capital outflows, potentially weakening the currency to Rp20,000 per US dollar. Analysts from the Political Economy and Policy Studies (PEPS) warn that the country's substantial foreign exchange reserves of US$151.9 billion as of February 2026 may not fully shield it from such shocks, drawing on historical patterns of depreciation during periods of global uncertainty. This scenario underscores Indonesia's ongoing sensitivity to external energy costs and investor sentiment, posing risks to trade balances, fiscal stability, and regional economic dynamics in Southeast Asia.

Traffic on the functional section of the Bogor-Ciawi-Sukabumi (Bocimi) Toll Road has been dense during the third day after Eid al-Fitr, driven by increased mobility towards Sukabumi's tourist areas. The section, operational from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily due to lack of lighting, has seen around 19,000 vehicles since its opening on 14 March 2026, with authorities deploying traffic management teams and urging drivers to ensure vehicle readiness and safe conditions. Density is also reported towards Parungkuda, attributed to high interest in Pelabuhan Ratu beach attractions.

Indonesia is aiming to secure savings of up to 80 trillion rupiah through budget efficiencies and a national work-from-home policy to mitigate the economic fallout from rising global oil prices triggered by the Middle East conflict. The government, under President Prabowo Subianto, plans to reduce energy consumption by promoting renewable sources like solar power and implementing one remote work day per week for civil servants and potentially private sector employees, while maintaining fuel subsidies and flagship programs such as free meals. These measures seek to preserve fiscal discipline and support the ambitious goal of boosting economic growth to 8 percent by 2029, ensuring stability amid regional pressures.

President Prabowo Subianto is steadfastly advancing Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG) as a flagship initiative to combat stunting, enhance nutrition for vulnerable children, and bolster human capital for long-term productivity. The programme is projected to create up to 30,000 operational kitchens employing 50 workers each, alongside millions of jobs in the supply chain involving farmers and vendors, thereby driving economic opportunities without incurring new debt through improved budget efficiency. Despite operational hurdles leading to the closure of over 1,000 substandard kitchens, the government is refining oversight to ensure quality and accountability, marking a shift towards inclusive growth that addresses social inequalities.

Indonesia's national holiday calendar for April 2026 features two key observances: Good Friday on 3 April and Easter Sunday on 5 April, both designated as national holidays, with no additional joint leave days. The month also includes several nationally recognised commemorative days, such as National Fisherman Day on 6 April, Kartini Day on 21 April, and Earth Day on 22 April, allowing citizens to plan accordingly. This schedule, outlined in the Joint Ministerial Decree on National Holidays and Joint Leave for 2026, provides a brief respite from routines amid a lighter holiday lineup compared to March's extended breaks for Idul Fitri and Nyepi.