Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 March 2026

Showing 651-700 of 757 articles

Malaysia eyes rail links to strengthen role in Europe-Asia trade

Malaysia is positioning itself as a vital transit hub for Europe-Asia trade by enhancing rail connectivity, particularly through the Perlis Inland Port, to offer alternatives to disrupted maritime routes amid geopolitical tensions. The launch of the ASEAN Express in 2024 links Malaysia to China and beyond via the Eurasian Land Bridge and middle corridor, boosting interest in faster rail shipments for commodities like palm oil despite challenges such as differing rail gauges and customs procedures. This strategy aims to capture shifting global trade flows, with authorities preparing ports to handle increased cargo volumes diverted from Middle Eastern hubs.

Musim Mas Strengthens Women's Empowerment Programmes as a Foundation for Sustainable Business

In celebration of National Women’s Day, Musim Mas has reaffirmed its dedication to fostering gender equality and women's empowerment within the palm oil industry, viewing it as both a moral imperative and a key element of its long-term business strategy. The company is advancing these goals through its Gender Committee, established in 2008 to ensure safe and inclusive workplaces, and the Women Smallholders Program, which boosts women's involvement in the supply chain, as outlined in its Sustainability Roadmap 2026–2030. Collaborating with organisations like DIWA, Musim Mas is enhancing operational resilience, worker dignity, and community welfare by investing in human capital and promoting women's independence.

Trump Administration’s Global Trade War Fizzles

The Trump administration's aggressive tariff policies against China and the world in 2025 have largely failed to curb US import dependence, with imports rising 4 percent despite higher tariffs, as supply chains shifted to countries like Vietnam, Mexico, Bangladesh, and Indonesia. China's strategic control over rare earths and semiconductors allowed it to counter effectively, enhancing its global trade position amid US uncertainties from Supreme Court rulings and the Iran conflict. This fizzling trade war underscores the need for international cooperation to reduce reliance on China, though US actions risk alienating key allies.

Bali Hate Speech Case: Swiss Tourist Arrested Over Alleged Instagram Insult of Nyepi

Indonesian authorities in Bali have arrested Swiss national Luzian Andrin Zgraggen for an Instagram post allegedly insulting Nyepi, the island's sacred Day of Silence, facing up to five years in prison under hate speech laws. The case highlights escalating concerns over tourist misconduct, both online and offline, amid efforts to protect Bali's Hindu cultural traditions in a major tourism hub. It serves as a reminder to visitors that disrespecting local religious practices can lead to serious legal consequences, reinforcing the balance between tourism and cultural preservation in Indonesia.

China Urges Its Citizens to Leave Israel as Quickly as Possible, What's Happening?

The Chinese government has urged its citizens in Israel to evacuate immediately due to the deteriorating security situation, exacerbated by intensified missile and drone attacks from Iran. The Chinese Embassy in Israel is organising further evacuation missions via the Taba border with Egypt and advising citizens to avoid key infrastructure and military sites. This advisory highlights escalating regional tensions and the growing risks to civilians in the conflict zone.

National One-Way from KM 459-70 Now in Effect for Return Traffic to Jakarta

The Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps has implemented a national one-way traffic scheme on the Trans-Java Toll Road from KM 459 to KM 70 to manage the return flow of vehicles to Jakarta during the post-holiday period. This measure, starting from Salatiga to Cikampek Utama, was brought forward from its planned Tuesday afternoon commencement and could be extended until 26 March depending on traffic conditions. The initiative aims to prevent congestion and ensure smoother traffic dispersal, with authorities advising against concentrating returns on a single day.

Danger! iPhones Can Be Hacked Just by Opening a Website, Hundreds of Millions at Risk

Cybersecurity researchers from Google, iVerify, and Lookout have uncovered a new hacking technique called DarkSword that can compromise hundreds of millions of iPhones, particularly those running outdated iOS versions, simply by users visiting malicious websites. This exploit, which remains freely available online and has been linked to Russian-affiliated hacking groups for espionage and cybercrime, targets sensitive data like personal information and financial details. With approximately 20% of the 1.4 billion global iOS users still on vulnerable iOS 18, updating to the latest iOS 26 is crucial to mitigate these risks.

LSUV Market Grows 40 Percent in February 2026: Rush-Terios Dominates

The low sport utility vehicle (LSUV) segment in Indonesia exhibited robust growth in February 2026, with wholesales reaching 7,046 units, marking a 40.1 percent increase from January's 5,028 units, according to Gaikindo data. Toyota Rush led the market with 3,478 units sold, a 48.3 percent surge, while Suzuki XL7 and Mitsubishi Xpander Cross followed with significant gains of 45.3 percent and 31.5 percent, respectively. This expansion highlights the strengthening demand for affordable SUVs amid Indonesia's recovering automotive sector.

Iran Denies Negotiations, Says Trump Only Wants to "Calm" US Markets

Iran's parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has dismissed reports of ongoing negotiations with the United States as "fake news" aimed at manipulating oil and financial markets amid escalating tensions. This denial follows US President Donald Trump's claim of productive talks with Tehran and a five-day delay in attacks on Iranian energy infrastructure. The conflict intensified after joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran on 28 February, which killed around 1,340 people including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, prompting Iranian retaliatory drone and missile attacks that disrupted global markets and aviation.

Coal Prices Plunge: China Engages in Panic Buying, Stockpiling Heavily

Global coal prices tumbled 4.1% to US$140.5 per tonne on Monday, reversing a recent upward trend amid a broader decline in energy prices following US President Donald Trump's order for a five-day pause in attacks on Iranian energy infrastructure. Despite the global slump, China's coking coal market heated up due to aggressive buying by steel producers and large-scale restocking efforts amid supply uncertainties, driving futures prices sharply higher. This divergence highlights shifting supply-demand dynamics, with China's domestic production instability and import limitations exacerbating market sensitivity.

Antam Releases Special Eid al-Fitr Gold Edition as Precious Metal Prices Decline

PT Antam Tbk has launched a special edition gold bar for Eid al-Fitr 2026 in denominations from 0.5 to 5 grams, promoting it as a meaningful gift and investment option amid falling global precious metal prices. The company is also conducting 'THR to Gold' sales at locations like Pakuwon Mall Bekasi and Mall Taman Anggrek, capitalising on increased domestic demand for gold. The price drop, from around $4,388 per ounce, is attributed to rising energy costs and inflation fears prompting expectations of interest rate hikes, making gold less attractive as a non-yielding asset, though forecasts suggest stability with a potential rise mid-2026.

Asian Stock Markets Uniformly Rise as Middle East Tensions Ease

Asian stock markets opened higher on Tuesday morning, with major indices in South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, and Malaysia all recording gains amid easing investor concerns over potential global energy disruptions following a de-escalation in Middle East tensions. US President Donald Trump has delayed plans to bomb Iran's power grid and extended an ultimatum on the Strait of Hormuz, leading to falling oil prices and strengthening equities. This development is seen as a negotiation tactic to avoid a sharp spike in oil prices, while Indonesia's stock market remains closed for a holiday.

President Contacts 8 World Leaders, Including Abbas and Erdogan

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto engaged in telephone communications with eight leaders of friendly nations, including Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, to extend Eid al-Fitr greetings for 1447 Hijriah, as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral ties. This outreach, highlighted by Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya, underscores Indonesia's longstanding support for the Palestinian cause, rooted in historical and emotional bonds since independence, and its active role in advocating for just peace in international forums. Among the contacted leaders were Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, though no explanation was provided for the omission of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

22 Toll Gates at Cikatama GT Operational for Lebaran Return Flow

PT Jasamarga Transjawa Tol is operating 22 toll transaction gates at Gerbang Tol Cikampek Utama (Cikatama) to facilitate the Lebaran return flow towards Jakarta, while adjusting to 8 gates for the Trans-Java direction amid situational one-way traffic engineering by the police to ease congestion. Additionally, PT Jasa Marga is offering a 30 percent toll discount on 26-27 March 2026 across nine group toll roads for continuous journeys, aiming to distribute traffic volume away from peak times as recommended by government officials. These measures enhance road safety, service provision, and traveller comfort during the high-volume return period.

Japan to tap joint oil stockpiles, PM says, with no end seen to supply crisis

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has announced that the country will release oil from joint stockpiles with producing nations by the end of March to mitigate supply disruptions from the Middle East crisis, following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz after US and Israeli strikes on Iran. This move builds on earlier releases of private and national reserves, contributing to a significant International Energy Agency-coordinated effort totalling nearly 80 million barrels, while alternative supplies from bypassing routes are limited and delayed. The ongoing crisis underscores Japan's vulnerability to global oil shocks, prompting calls for further stockpile releases and market interventions to stabilise domestic fuel supplies.

MBZ Toll Road Traffic Remains High on H+1 Eid: Exceeds 95,000

Traffic volume on the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Elevated Toll Road surged significantly on the first day after Eid al-Fitr 1447 H, with 95,321 vehicles recorded in both directions, marking a 114.67% increase for outbound traffic from Jakarta compared to normal levels. This peak, driven by heightened mobility during the holiday period, saw the most substantial rises in the morning and evening, underscoring the ongoing travel demands post-celebrations. The data highlights the critical role of such infrastructure in managing Indonesia's festive-season mobility challenges.

Petrol Cars Face End Due to Korean Researchers' Discovery

Researchers at Pohang University of Science and Technology in South Korea have developed a silicon-based battery for electric vehicles that offers a range of up to 1,000 km per charge and 40% higher energy density than standard lithium-ion batteries. This innovation addresses key challenges like volume expansion during charging by using micro-scale silicon and a polymer gel electrolyte, making production simpler and more cost-effective. The breakthrough could accelerate the global shift to electric vehicles, potentially rendering petrol cars obsolete and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

56,000 Vehicles Head to Jakarta via Cipali Toll Road on Monday Night

Approximately 56,000 vehicles were recorded travelling towards Jakarta via the Cikopo-Palimanan (Cipali) toll road in West Java by Monday night following the 2026 Eid al-Fitr celebrations. This represents a 92 percent increase from the previous day, signalling the start of the homecoming traffic surge, though overall traffic volume on the toll road was slightly lower than the prior period, with conditions remaining busy but smooth. The toll operator urged drivers to prioritise safety, avoid stopping on the shoulder except in emergencies, ensure vehicle and driver readiness, and contact the call centre for assistance if needed.

DKI Provincial Government Implements WFA for Civil Servants After Eid Holidays

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has introduced a Work From Anywhere (WFA) policy for civil servants (ASN) starting this week following the Eid al-Fitr holidays, allowing flexible working arrangements from offices or other locations while prioritising public services. This measure, aligned with a Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform circular, limits WFA to 50% of staff per unit, mandates twice-daily online attendance, and excludes 24-hour direct public service units to ensure uninterrupted service quality. The policy aims to balance employee flexibility with efficient performance verification and optimal public service delivery.

Transport Minister Urges Logistics Entrepreneurs to Comply with Truck Restrictions During Return Flow

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has called on logistics transport entrepreneurs to adhere to truck operation restrictions during the 2026 Lebaran return flow, aimed at ensuring smooth traffic and safety for all road users. The peak return flow is expected in three waves on 24, 25, and 27 March 2026, under a joint decree from the Ministry of Transport, Indonesian National Police, and Ministry of Public Works. The minister praised compliant businesses and police enforcement, while noting prior sanctions on 124 violators and detection of 158 overloaded trucks via RFID data.

Gold Prices at Galeri 24, UBS, and Antam Retro Drop to Rp 2.8 Million Today

Gold prices for 1-gram bars from major Indonesian sellers Galeri 24, UBS, Antam, and Antam Retro have declined significantly today, with each now priced below Rp 2.95 million per gram. Galeri 24 is selling at Rp 2.849 million, Antam at Rp 2.943 million, UBS at Rp 2.862 million, and Antam Retro at Rp 2.882 million, down from yesterday's levels. This drop reflects broader market fluctuations in precious metals, impacting investors and buyers in Indonesia's gold trade.

Still Being Processed, KPK Assures Yaqut Will Be Returned to Detention

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has announced that former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, a suspect in the alleged Hajj quota corruption case, is being processed to return to state detention from house arrest. This follows reports from other detainees, including the wife of a related suspect, who noted Yaqut's absence from the facility since 19 March 2026, raising questions among inmates. The KPK has committed to keeping the public informed of developments in the case, highlighting ongoing anti-corruption efforts amid public scrutiny.

This is the Reason Fire Services Always Respond to All Public Complaints

Firefighters in Jakarta receive high public satisfaction for responding to all community reports, even those outside their core duties, as mandated by their standard operating procedures, which require them to at least attend the scene before explaining limitations. Officials highlight challenges like illegal parking and blocked roads that hinder operations, while data shows a decrease in fires but an increase in rescue incidents in 2025. This approach underscores the trusted role of fire services in public safety, with appreciation from figures like Interior Minister Tito Karnavian.

Iran Conflict Disrupts Trade, Saudi Aramco Cuts Exports to Asia

Saudi Aramco, the world's largest oil exporter, has reduced crude oil supplies to Asian buyers for the second consecutive month in April due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz caused by the US-Israel conflict with Iran. The company is supplying only Arab Light crude from the Red Sea port of Yanbu to contract customers, keeping supplies tight and limiting refinery production in Asia. Aramco is utilising alternative export routes to ensure reliable energy supplies and maintain market stability amid regional tensions.

Guide to Accessing the Functional Japek II South Toll Road During Eid Return Traffic

The functional Jakarta-Cikampek (Japek) II South toll road is being prepared to alleviate congestion during the 2026 Eid return traffic, but access remains limited and requires entry through existing toll networks like the Sadang Toll Road. The road will open based on traffic conditions, such as queues exceeding 500 meters at Kalitama or vehicle speeds dropping to 30-40 km/h with a volume-to-capacity ratio of 0.7-0.8. This initiative aims to ensure smoother travel to Jakarta and its surrounding areas, with users advised to follow traffic signs and instructions for safety.

Business Leaders Respond to WFH One Day per Week Policy, Say This

Indonesian business leaders, led by Apindo Chair Shinta Kamdani, have urged the government to carefully assess the proposed policy of implementing work from home (WFH) one day per week, aimed at reducing fuel consumption amid escalating tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, the US, and Israel. They emphasise the need for a thorough impact analysis on productivity and business operations, warning against a one-size-fits-all approach since sectors like manufacturing, logistics, and services require physical presence, while IT and creative professions could adapt more easily. The policy, directed by the President and set to detail post-Eid 2026, targets efficiency without uniform application to public services or industries where remote work is infeasible, as confirmed by Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto and State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi.

Staying in Jakarta, Struggling for Family Happiness During Eid

Amid Jakarta's annual mass exodus for Eid al-Fitr, many residents choose to remain in the capital to maintain essential services and earn overtime pay, exemplified by Dasman, a Minangkabau bus driver from Padang. This decision reflects a calculated trade-off between homesickness and financial stability, ensuring their families back home can celebrate the holiday comfortably. The phenomenon highlights the social realities faced by urban migrants in Indonesia's bustling metropolis.

OJK Predicts Impact of Global Market Dynamics on Pension Fund Investments, ADPI's Response

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has warned that global financial market dynamics could impact pension fund investment performance in 2026, potentially lowering returns amid interest rate fluctuations. The Indonesian Pension Fund Association (ADPI) emphasises the need for portfolio diversification, robust risk management, and a focus on long-term stability rather than short-term gains to ensure consistent benefits for participants. With 70% of pension fund portfolios in fixed-income instruments like government bonds, ADPI views the overall impact as minimal, advocating prudent investment strategies such as careful stock selection and asset-liability matching.

Returning to Indonesia from Thailand, You'll Now Have to Pay Rp 608,000

Starting 20 June 2026, passengers departing from Thailand to international destinations, including Indonesia, will face a new Passenger Service Charge (PSC) of 1,120 baht (approximately Rp 608,000) per person, a significant increase from the previous 730 baht. This adjustment, approved by Thailand's Civil Aviation Board, applies to six airports managed by Airports of Thailand (AOT) and is expected to generate an additional 10 billion baht annually for enhancing airport facilities and services. While airlines support the hike, they urge tangible improvements, and AOT maintains that the fee remains competitive globally and will not deter tourists.

12 Updates on Iran-US War: Trump Loses-Regime Change for Mojtaba Khamenei

In a surprising turn, US President Donald Trump has announced negotiations with Iran to end the three-week conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran, claiming talks are progressing well despite Tehran's denials, which analysts interpret as Trump conceding to avoid escalating retaliation. Key developments include Israel's continued strikes on Iranian proxies in Beirut and Tehran, vulnerabilities in Israel's David's Sling defence system, and international responses such as the UK summoning Iran's ambassador and deploying air defences to the Gulf. The conflict has caused temporary oil market disruptions, economic terrorism accusations over the Strait of Hormuz blockade, and warnings of irreversible consequences from attacks on critical infrastructure, with Trump hinting at an automatic regime change in Iran due to high-level casualties.

Tambora Residents' Suffering: Forced to Live in the Remains of Their Burnt Houses

Residents affected by a devastating fire in Tambora, West Jakarta, have been compelled to return to the charred remnants of their homes after the closure of emergency shelters, just before the Eid al-Fitr celebrations. In one particularly dire case, 65-year-old Soleh and his family of 11, including young children, are crammed into a narrow, exposed ground floor space that was once a grocery shop, facing exposure to cold, mosquitoes, and mould. This situation underscores the urgent need for improved post-disaster housing support and rehabilitation efforts by local authorities in densely populated urban areas.

Oil Prices Plunge 10%, Investors Growing Weary of Trump's Manoeuvres

Global crude oil prices tumbled over 10% following US President Donald Trump's announcement of a five-day delay in planned strikes on Iran's energy infrastructure, amid claims of productive talks with Tehran. While Iran denies ongoing negotiations and Israel continues its assaults, markets are pricing in the potential reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for 20% of world oil supplies, which has been effectively closed due to the conflict. Trump's shifting rhetoric has fatigued investors, reducing trading volumes as they navigate conflicting news, highlighting the precarious balance between diplomacy and escalation in stabilising energy markets.

Until When is the 2026 Eid Holiday? Here is the Complete Schedule and WFA Scheme

The Indonesian government has set the official Eid al-Fitr 2026 holiday from 20 to 24 March, comprising two national holidays and three collective leave days, following the Joint Decree of Three Ministers. This period aligns with Nyepi holidays, creating a seven-day break from 18 to 24 March, while Work From Anywhere (WFA) policies for civil servants and private sector workers extend flexibility before and after the holidays to ease traffic congestion and boost local economies. These measures ensure public services remain operational where essential, balancing rest with productivity.

Oil Prices Fall After Trump Delays Attack on Iran's Energy Facilities

Oil prices have dropped significantly following US President Donald Trump's announcement of a five-day delay in attacks on Iran's energy infrastructure, amid claims of productive talks to end hostilities in the Middle East. Brent crude fell 11% to $99.94 per barrel, and WTI declined 10% to $88.13 per barrel, with further decreases anticipated if the Strait of Hormuz remains stable. However, Iran has denied any such discussions and warned of severe retaliatory consequences, highlighting ongoing tensions that could reverse the price trend if escalation resumes.

Grab Enters Taiwan with Rp 10 Trillion Acquisition of Foodpanda

Singapore-based Grab Holdings has acquired Foodpanda's food delivery business in Taiwan for $600 million (approximately Rp 10 trillion), marking its first expansion outside Southeast Asia into a market of 23 million people with high demand for mobile services. The deal, awaiting regulatory approval and expected to close in the second half of 2026, will integrate Foodpanda's 52% market share with Grab's AI-driven platform, challenging Uber Eats' dominance and potentially reshaping Taiwan's competitive landscape. This move leverages Taiwan's mature food delivery sector, which generated $1.8 billion in gross merchandise value in 2025, to bolster Grab's regional growth.

Thank You Donald Trump, Wall Street Soars

Wall Street indices surged on Monday following US President Donald Trump's announcement of a delay in attacks on Iran's power plants after productive talks with Tehran, reversing a previous market slump triggered by escalating tensions. The Dow Jones rose 1.38% to 46,208.47, the S&P 500 climbed 1.15% to 6,581, and the Nasdaq gained 1.38% to 21,946.76, amid falling oil prices and reduced volatility. Despite Iran's parliamentary speaker denying the claims of significant agreements, the news boosted investor optimism, with bets on Federal Reserve rate hikes diminishing.

Yaqut's Camp Dismisses Criticism Over House Arrest Status

The legal team of former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has defended the Corruption Eradication Commission's (KPK) decision to change his detention status to house arrest in the hajj quota corruption case, emphasising his full cooperation and compliance with all procedures. Despite sharp criticisms, the lawyer expressed confidence that Yaqut will adhere to all obligations, including supervision, following his release from KPK's detention facility at his family's request. This development comes after Yaqut and his former aide, Isfan Abidal Aziz, were named suspects under anti-corruption laws, highlighting ongoing scrutiny of high-level graft in Indonesia's religious affairs sector.

List of Miscalculations and Failures of Trump-Netanyahu to Subdue Iran

US President Donald Trump's recent decision to postpone an attack on Iran's power facilities contradicts his earlier triumphant rhetoric, highlighting the stalled US-Israel efforts to quickly subdue Iran. Instead of achieving strategic goals, the conflict has resulted in over 1,500 Iranian deaths, including more than 200 children, over 1,000 Lebanese killed by Israeli strikes on Hezbollah, and skyrocketing global energy prices due to attacks on Gulf facilities. Israel's security has deteriorated, with constant Iranian missile and drone attacks breaching advanced defences, leading to civilian casualties, disrupted daily life, and renewed ground operations in Lebanon that strain resources.

2026 Lebaran Return Flow: Jogja-Jakarta Toll Fees Reach Rp 600,000

The toll fees for the return journey from Yogyakarta to Jakarta during the 2026 Lebaran period will total approximately Rp 622,500 for private vehicles, comprising charges from multiple segments of the Trans Java Toll Road. This significant cost underscores the need for travellers to plan meticulously to avoid issues at toll gates amid high traffic volumes. Proper preparation, including optimal departure times and vehicle checks, is essential for a safe and smooth trip.

The Story of Stanley Druckenmiller, the Wealthy Investor Who Conquered the Bank of England

Stanley Druckenmiller rose to fame in the financial world through his partnership with George Soros, most notably for their 1992 speculative bet against the British pound, which earned over US$1 billion and is famously known as "breaking the Bank of England." Beginning his career as a management trainee in the 1970s, Druckenmiller founded Duquesne Capital Management in 1981, achieving remarkable success before closing it in 2010 with $12 billion in assets under management to focus on his family office. His investment career highlights include tech stocks in the late 1990s, defensive positioning during the 2008 financial crisis, and a long position in gold in 2015 amid concerns over low interest rates.

Marine Corps Commander Releases Bodies of Two Fallen Marines Killed by OPM

The Commander of the Marine Corps, Lieutenant General Mar Endi Supardi, led a solemn ceremony to honour and release the bodies of two marines, Private Andi Suvio and Private Elki Saputra, who were killed by the Free Papua Organisation (OPM) while defending Indonesia's sovereignty in Papua. One of the fallen soldiers was transported to his hometown in Padang, West Sumatra, for a military burial, underscoring the military's commitment to providing full honours and support to the families. This event highlights the ongoing security challenges in Papua and the sacrifices made by Indonesian forces in maintaining national unity.

KPK Awaits Health Test Results Before Returning Yaqut to Detention

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is awaiting the results of a health examination for former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas before reinstating him as a detainee in the KPK's detention centre amid a corruption case involving Hajj quotas. Yaqut's status was briefly changed to house arrest following a family request, but this decision drew widespread criticism after it was revealed publicly. The KPK has assured that the investigation will continue uninterrupted, thanking the public for their support in combating corruption.

Garuda Indonesia Suffers Internal Bleeding Despite Capital Injection

Garuda Indonesia, the national carrier, reported a net loss of $322.4 million in 2025, a 4.5-fold increase despite receiving a Rp 23.7 trillion ($1.4 billion) capital injection from the state investment body Danantara. The funds primarily addressed past debts and maintenance backlogs rather than enabling operational expansion, leading to a 5.9% drop in business revenue to $3.21 billion and a loss of market share to competitors like Lion Air Group. This situation highlights deep-seated issues in fleet management and cost structures, underscoring the need for fundamental reforms to ensure long-term viability in Indonesia's recovering aviation market.

Iran Responds to Trump's Announcement of Halting War, Denies Negotiations

Iran has firmly denied US President Donald Trump's claims of productive talks aimed at resolving the Middle East conflict, following his announcement of a temporary halt to military strikes against Iranian power plants. Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf accused Trump of manipulating the energy market, while the Foreign Ministry acknowledged receiving messages via friendly nations but rejected any direct negotiations during the 24-day war. The exchange comes amid volatile oil prices and stock market surges, highlighting the geopolitical tensions' impact on global energy markets.

Global Oil Prices Plummet, but Strait of Hormuz Remains Vulnerable

Global oil prices experienced a sharp decline on Monday (23/3/2026) following US President Donald Trump's announcement of a delay in military action against Iran, after productive talks aimed at resolving the Middle East conflict. Brent crude fell over 13% to $96 per barrel, while WTI dropped 13.5% to $85.28 per barrel, easing market fears temporarily. However, the Strait of Hormuz continues to pose risks, with Chevron's CEO warning that the physical disruptions from its partial closure are not yet fully reflected in futures prices.

Get Ready for Traffic Jams: Peak Return Flow of Eid Predicted for Today

The peak of the return traffic flow following Eid al-Fitr 1447 H is expected today, 24 March 2026, leading to increased congestion on several toll roads as vehicles head back to Jakarta and surrounding areas. The Directorate General of Land Transportation has implemented traffic engineering measures, including one-way systems from KM 421 of the Semarang-Solo toll road to KM 70 of the Jakarta-Cikampek toll road, and contraflow from KM 70 to KM 47 on the Jakarta-Cikampek route since yesterday. Motorists are advised to plan their journeys carefully, monitor real-time traffic conditions, and follow instructions from authorities to ensure smooth and safe travel.

Energy Efficiency: Remote Learning for Students Set to Be Reimplemented from April?

The Indonesian government is considering reinstating remote learning for students as part of a broader energy efficiency policy starting in April 2026, amid global oil supply concerns from restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz. Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno stated that options like distance learning are under review to ensure measurable energy savings without unduly disrupting education or public services, with in-person sessions maintained for practical subjects. This initiative also includes flexible work schemes for civil servants, enhanced digital platforms, and reduced official travel, aligning with similar energy-saving measures adopted by neighbouring Southeast Asian countries such as the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Vietnam ready to build first nuclear power plant with Russian assistance

Russia and Vietnam have signed an intergovernmental agreement to collaborate on constructing Vietnam's first nuclear power plant, with the signing ceremony taking place in Moscow following talks between the two countries' prime ministers. The deal was inked by Rosatom's head Alexey Likhachev and Vietnam's government office chief Tran Van Son. This agreement is expected to boost joint projects in the oil and gas sector and enhance bilateral trade between the two nations.

Different Approaches by Indonesia and Malaysia to US Trade Agreement

Indonesia and Malaysia have taken divergent paths regarding the US Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) signed under former President Trump. While Malaysia has fully cancelled its ART following a US Supreme Court ruling invalidating reciprocal tariffs, Indonesia under President Prabowo Subianto maintains its agreement, preserving zero tariffs on 1,819 commodities despite ongoing US investigations. This difference highlights varying strategies to navigate US trade policy shifts, with potential impacts on key export sectors like electronics, palm oil, and textiles in both nations.

Lebaran Homecoming Traffic: One-Way System from KM 459-70 Officially Implemented

Indonesia's national one-way traffic scheme has been officially enforced on the Trans-Java Toll Road towards Jakarta, starting from KM 459 to KM 70, to manage the heavy return traffic following Lebaran holidays. According to Jasa Marga official Pingky, the system includes both a national one-way from Kalikangkung to Cikampek Utama (KM 390 to KM 70) and a local one-way from Banyumanik to Salatiga, implemented since the previous night. This measure aims to alleviate congestion during the peak post-holiday period on one of the country's vital transportation arteries.