As Indonesians prepare for the 2026 Lebaran return traffic, monitoring real-time traffic conditions is crucial for safe travel. Official CCTV links provide live feeds from 1,351 cameras across toll roads and arterial routes nationwide, helping users identify congestion spots. Additional features like mudik route maps and rainfall maps assist travellers in choosing safer and more efficient paths.

In a bid to address the state budget deficit and rising oil prices due to the Iran war, President Prabowo Subianto has proposed salary cuts for government officials, a move supported by several ministers who pledge obedience to the policy. Prabowo has also committed to rationally reviewing recommendations from the Police Reform Commission to build a professional and corruption-free law enforcement institution. Despite potential crises, he firmly vows to continue the free nutritious meals (MBG) programme for children, funding it through budget efficiencies to combat stunting, underscoring his administration's focus on fiscal prudence and social priorities.

Indonesia's economy has maintained a stable but sluggish growth rate of around 5 percent for the past two decades, with projections for 2025 at 5.11 percent, far short of the ambitious 8 percent target that demands structural leaps. To reach this goal, the article outlines five key pillars: drastically increasing investment efficiency by lowering the ICOR through bureaucratic reforms and anti-corruption measures; advancing full industrialisation beyond mere downstreaming to high-value manufacturing; reorienting the economy towards exports as the primary engine, emulating models like Vietnam; accelerating labour productivity by shifting workers from informal to modern sectors; and redirecting fiscal policy from defensive consumption support to aggressive investments in productive areas like industry, technology, and education. Achieving 8 percent growth requires bold reforms to transform Indonesia's resilient but constrained economy into one capable of sustained high-speed expansion.

DAMRI, Indonesia's state-owned bus operator, has reported serving approximately 31,423 passengers on return journeys to Jakarta during the initial days of the 2026 Eid al-Fitr period, from 23 to 29 March. The Lampung-Jakarta route dominated with over 18,000 passengers, highlighting significant cross-island mobility reliant on national ferry connections, followed by routes from Yogyakarta and Purwokerto. DAMRI is dynamically adjusting operations to ensure safety and smoothness, underscoring its critical role in managing peak holiday travel and supporting national transport infrastructure.

US stock markets closed higher on Monday following signals of de-escalation in the Middle East conflict after constructive talks between the US and Iran, with President Donald Trump announcing a delay in attacks on Iranian energy infrastructure. Major indices like the Dow Jones, S&P 500, and Nasdaq saw significant gains of over 1%, reversing earlier declines driven by oil price spikes. However, analysts remain cautious, noting uncertainties involving regional players and potential long-term damage to energy facilities that could keep oil prices elevated.

Military analysts have sharply criticised the United States' plan to seize Iran's Kharg Island, a key oil export hub, labelling it a high-risk amphibious operation that endangers American forces amid Iran's advanced weaponry. Former Swedish military officer Mikael Valtersson attributes the aggression to US intelligence and planning failures, highlighting Iran's formidable anti-ship missiles like Khalij Fars, Zolfaghar Basir, and Abu Mahdi, which can strike targets in the Gulf within minutes. Additionally, Iran's short-range air defence systems such as Khordad-15 and Pantsir-S1 pose severe threats to US helicopters and support aircraft, potentially turning the island into a deadly trap for invading troops.

US President Donald Trump's decision to delay a strike on Iran's power facilities is reportedly the result of extensive lobbying by Turkey, Pakistan, Egypt, and Oman, rather than Indonesia or Gulf states. These countries acted as intermediaries in separate talks with US and Iranian officials to end the war and resolve outstanding issues, amid Tehran's denial of any direct negotiations. Turkey, a key player as Iran's neighbour and NATO ally, has actively engaged in phone diplomacy with regional counterparts to de-escalate the tensions, highlighting the broader regional efforts to prevent further escalation.

Iran has firmly denied any ongoing discussions with the United States regarding the Strait of Hormuz, dismissing President Donald Trump's statements about delaying attacks on Iranian power plants and energy facilities as mere intrigue aimed at stabilising global oil prices amid heightened tensions. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Abbas Araghchi emphasised that Tehran is not the aggressor in the conflict and that any de-escalation demands should be directed at Washington and its ally Israel. This denial underscores Iran's rejection of US overtures, accusing Trump of stalling tactics to pursue military plans while calming energy market volatility caused by the crisis.

During Eid al-Fitr 2026, the return journey (arus balik) in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), particularly at Lombok International Airport, highlights Indonesia's evolving mobility patterns, with over 77,000 passengers recorded from 13 to 21 March and a predicted peak on 29 March. Government policies, including toll discounts, traffic management, and additional flights, aim to distribute peak travel across three waves, influenced by flexible work arrangements like work from anywhere. This reflects NTB's growing role as a national mobility hub and the challenges in aligning public advisories with social and economic preferences for safer, more comfortable travel.

Gold prices have experienced significant volatility amid escalating tensions in the Iran war, dropping over 15% in recent days before a slight rebound following US President Donald Trump's announcement of delayed attacks and talks with Iran. Traditionally viewed as a safe-haven asset, gold's performance is now influenced more by global trade surpluses, particularly from China, and disruptions like those in the Strait of Hormuz that could hinder economic activity and central bank gold accumulation. This shift highlights how geopolitical risks are paradoxically pressuring gold prices downward due to higher interest rate expectations and a stronger US dollar, leaving investors in a precarious position.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has affirmed that military strikes against Iran and Lebanon will continue, while claiming recent intelligence operations eliminated two key Iranian nuclear scientists. This comes as US President Donald Trump expresses optimism about a potential diplomatic agreement to end the four-week conflict, though Iran denies any direct talks. The situation is further complicated by Pakistan's offer to host negotiations and escalating tensions in the Gulf region, with global markets reacting sharply to the ongoing threats.

The functional Jakarta-Cikampek (Japek) II South toll road has been opened to support the smooth flow of return traffic during Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah, with traffic from Bandung to Jakarta being diverted via the Sadang toll to this 53-kilometre alternative route to reduce congestion on the main Cikampek toll road. Restricted to private vehicles, the route provides access to Jakarta's satellite areas such as Bogor, BSD, and Serpong, while safety measures include temporary closures during heavy rain and 24-hour security personnel. This initiative highlights the importance of infrastructure enhancements in managing peak holiday traffic in Indonesia.

US President Donald Trump claims to have engaged in secret talks with a high-ranking Iranian official via phone to avert an impending US strike on Iran's energy infrastructure and power plants, with negotiations set to continue for five days. Trump insists the discussions, handled by his aides Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, aim for a positive resolution but warns of resuming bombardment if they fail, while Iran officially denies any such dialogue, labelling Trump's statements as a ploy to stabilise global oil markets amid tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. This development highlights escalating US-Iran tensions and potential impacts on international energy prices.

US President Donald Trump has announced that the United States and Iran have held productive talks to end the three-week Middle East conflict, ordering the Pentagon to suspend all military strikes on Iran's power plants and energy infrastructure for five days pending successful negotiations. Iran's foreign ministry has denied these talks, suggesting Trump's move aims to curb soaring energy prices, while retaliatory actions continue to disrupt the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for one-fifth of global crude oil. The announcement triggered a sharp 14% drop in oil prices, with Brent crude falling to $96 per barrel and West Texas Intermediate to $84.37, averting a potential global energy crisis worse than past oil shocks.

President Prabowo Subianto has urged enhancements in the quality of nutrition services under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, particularly calling for the temporary closure of underperforming kitchen units (SPPG) until comprehensive improvements are made. In response, the Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, announced the formation of a special monitoring unit to oversee certifications including hygiene and sanitation, halal standards, and HACCP protocols, aiming to ensure food safety and quality. This initiative, which includes establishing an internal classification team ahead of a national accreditation body, underscores BGN's commitment to optimising the programme in line with national and international standards.

Mohsen Rezaei, senior military advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, has vowed that Tehran will persist in its conflict until all demands are met, including full compensation for damages and the complete removal of economic sanctions, along with binding international guarantees against US interference. Rezaei claimed the war effectively ended over a week ago, with the US initially ready for a ceasefire, but alleged Israeli intervention prolonged it, while assuring Iranians of stable leadership transition and military strength. Amid escalating tensions, Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf echoed calls for justice and punishment of aggressors, linking military cessation to significant economic and political concessions from the West.

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence (Kemenhan) and the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) are introducing measured and phased fuel efficiency measures in response to global geopolitical dynamics that could impact energy stability. These initiatives align with President Prabowo Subianto's directives to enhance national efficiency without compromising public services or defence readiness, focusing on administrative and managerial adjustments while prioritising strategic operations. Key steps include adjusting workdays, prioritising alutsista usage, and restricting official vehicle use to maintain economic stability and national resilience.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has voiced strong grievances to his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan over the perceived betrayal by Gulf Arab states, accusing them of allowing US military bases on their soil to be used in attacks against Iran amid escalating conflict with Israel and the United States. Araghchi described Iran's retaliatory strikes on these bases as legitimate self-defence, lamenting the failure of fellow Muslim nations to uphold Islamic principles by isolating and targeting Tehran. This diplomatic exchange underscores deepening regional tensions in the Middle East, highlighting fractures among Muslim countries as the war intensifies.

The odd-even vehicle restriction system in Jakarta is temporarily suspended today, Tuesday 24 March 2026, as part of the extended holiday period encompassing Nyepi (Saka New Year 1948) and Eid al-Fitr 1447 H, from 18 to 24 March. This policy aligns with the Joint Ministerial Decree on National Holidays and Collective Leave for 2026 issued by the Ministers of Religious Affairs, Manpower, and State Apparatus Empowerment. The restriction will resume on 25-27 March 2026, affecting 25 specified roads in the capital to manage traffic flow.

PT Kereta Api Pariwisata has reported a dramatic 154% increase in passenger volume for its premium train services, including the KA Panoramic, during the Lebaran 2026 period from 13 to 22 March, surpassing the annual target of 122%. This surge reflects shifting public preferences towards viewing long-distance travel as an enjoyable end-to-end tourism experience rather than mere transportation. To meet demand, the company is expanding operations with additional routes, premium services, and enhanced facilities like luxury lounges, transit hotels, and upcoming bag-handling innovations.

In a tense escalation of the US-Iran conflict, President Donald Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face strikes on its power infrastructure, prompting Iranian military officials to mock him by invoking his famous 'You're Fired' catchphrase from The Apprentice. The closure of the strait, a retaliation to US and Israeli attacks, has disrupted global oil supplies, causing fuel prices to surge and threatening widespread inflation. Trump later announced a five-day delay to military action following productive talks, signaling a potential de-escalation amid ongoing hostilities in the Middle East.

A controversy has erupted over parking fees at the Kampung Serab Public Cemetery in Depok after a Rp5,000 motorcycle parking ticket went viral on social media, raising concerns about unofficial charges and lack of management clarity. Visitors report inconsistent practices, with some receiving tickets in the past but not currently, and no guarantees for vehicle security. The incident highlights potential regulatory issues in the management of public facilities, prompting public attention to the transparency and legitimacy of such fees.

Tokocrypto achieved significant growth in 2025, reaching over 4.8 million users with a 75% increase in active users, facilitating more than Rp50 trillion in transactions, and expanding to over 480 IDR-based trading pairs. The platform forged more than 1,000 brand partnerships and conducted 168 financial literacy initiatives across 50 cities, engaging 125,000 participants, while earning numerous awards for trust, innovation, and tax contributions. Looking ahead to 2026, Tokocrypto plans to introduce user-friendly features like gift cards and QR code top-ups, emphasising security, compliance, and inclusivity in Indonesia's crypto ecosystem.

The construction of the 18.5-kilometre Nirmala Road in Malasari Village, Bogor Regency, has transformed a once remote area at the foot of Mount Halimun Salak into an accessible tourism hub, drawing crowds during Eid al-Fitr comparable to the busy Puncak route. Funded through the 2025 Bogor Regency Budget and accelerated via a TNI work scheme under Presidential Instruction No. 1/2025, the improved infrastructure has shortened travel times, boosted local economic activities, and enhanced access to services. Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto emphasises the need to balance development with environmental conservation, given the area's proximity to protected zones, to ensure sustainable growth.

On 23 March, key political events in Indonesia included the Ministry of Defence and TNI preparing fuel efficiency measures to counter global geopolitical risks affecting energy stability. A new Indonesian Navy warship, KRI Prabu Siliwangi-321, arrived in the country, while President Prabowo Subianto extended Idul Fitri greetings to leaders like Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim. Additionally, Megawati Soekarnoputri met Timor Leste's President José Ramos-Horta to strengthen bilateral ties, and a DPR lawmaker opposed proposals to revert schooling to online mode for energy-saving purposes starting April 2026.

President Donald Trump announced productive talks between the United States and Iran aimed at fully resolving hostilities in the Middle East, leading to an immediate 11 percent drop in Brent crude prices to $99.71 per barrel and over 10 percent decline in WTI to $88.07 per barrel. Trump also ordered a five-day suspension of military strikes on Iran's key energy infrastructure, though the reopening of major shipping lanes remains unclear. Goldman Sachs significantly raised its oil price forecasts, predicting Brent averages of $110 in March and April, amid concerns over restricted flows through the Strait of Hormuz.

Agus Listiyono, Acting Secretary of the Blora Regency DPRD in Central Java, has apologised for using an official red-plated vehicle for personal Eid visits after photos of the car went viral on social media. He admitted to driving it from Blora to his parents' home and then to his in-laws' in Sragen, violating ministerial regulations and KPK guidelines that prohibit such use for private purposes. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about public officials' adherence to rules on state assets during holidays, with Agus expressing regret for his oversight.

Jorge Martin, set to join Yamaha next season after a competitive stint with Aprilia, insists he has no regrets about his decision despite Yamaha's current struggles in the 2026 MotoGP season. Meanwhile, Indonesia's Minister of Transportation has warned holidaymakers returning to Jabodetabek to avoid peak return flow periods on 24, 28, and 29 March 2026, with traffic engineering measures like one-way systems and contraflow implemented to manage the influx. This guidance is crucial for alleviating congestion on major toll roads, where over 285,000 vehicles are expected on the busiest day, surpassing the outbound Eid peak.

The Acting Secretary of Blora Regency's DPRD, Agus Listiyono, has admitted to using an official red-plated vehicle for personal Eid visits, including trips to the regent's residence, his parents' home, and his in-laws' in Sragen, despite being aware of KPK guidelines prohibiting such use. The incident, captured in a photo that went viral on social media, highlights a breach of ministerial regulations that restrict government vehicles to official duties only. Agus apologised for his lack of diligence in applying the rules, noting the trip was brief and he returned the same night, underscoring ongoing challenges in enforcing anti-corruption measures among public officials.

Indonesian legal developments on 23 March included the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) announcing the rearrest of former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas in a hajj quota corruption case, and Bali Police detaining a Swiss national suspected of insulting Nyepi Day. Other actions involved transferring a Filipino detainee and deporting a German citizen for unauthorised research in a national park, while a political analyst praised the Polri's 2026 free homecoming programme as evidence of the police's transformation towards service. These events highlight ongoing anti-corruption efforts, cultural sensitivities, and immigration enforcement in Indonesia.

Indonesia's National Police Traffic Corps Chief, Inspector General Agus Suryonugroho, has urged Eid returnees to avoid resting on toll road shoulders to prevent disruptions amid expected high vehicle volumes during the 2026 Lebaran homecoming rush. He recommends exiting the toll roads to rest at arterial routes or district areas instead, while confirming the implementation of a national one-way traffic system starting 24 March at 2:00 PM WIB, which may be extended based on traffic conditions. This guidance aims to ensure smoother travel and reduce congestion, with suggestions for staggered return dates to avoid peak times.

Indonesian police traffic corps has implemented a national one-way traffic system on major toll roads to manage the peak return flow of vehicles following the 2026 Eid al-Fitr holidays, starting today at 2:00 PM WIB. The measure, flagged off by the National Police Chief and relevant ministers, applies from Km 414 of the Kalikangkung Toll to Km 70 of the Cikampek Utara Toll, anticipating up to 270,000 vehicles per day based on outbound peaks. This follows a trial run yesterday and aims to handle the increasing return traffic, with 43% already back in Jakarta.

The Indonesian government is considering a policy to implement work from home (WFH) one day per week, but academics and members of the House of Representatives (DPR) have called for a cautious approach involving comprehensive studies, gradual pilots, and sector-specific mapping to avoid disrupting productivity or public service quality. Experts from Universitas Gadjah Mada suggest starting with pilot projects in select ministries and provinces, tailoring WFH to roles like managerial and analytical positions while excluding operational sectors such as healthcare and logistics. This policy aims to balance flexibility in bureaucracy but requires robust evaluation mechanisms, including output-based assessments and time-tracking tools, to ensure effectiveness.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has revealed a conversation with US President Donald Trump, where Trump expressed belief in leveraging recent military successes against Iran to secure a deal protecting Israel's vital interests. Netanyahu affirmed ongoing strikes on Iran and Lebanon, aimed at destroying Iran's missile and nuclear programmes while inflicting heavy damage on Hezbollah, including the recent elimination of two Iranian nuclear scientists. This comes shortly after Trump's announcement of positive talks with an unnamed Iranian official, marking a sudden shift to diplomacy amid a delayed ultimatum demanding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz shipping lanes.

Former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has been returned to the KPK detention centre after a brief transfer to house arrest, amid an ongoing corruption case involving Hajj quotas. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) processed the reversion on 23 March 2026, following a health examination at a Jakarta hospital. This development follows Yaqut's initial detention on 12 March 2026 and a family-requested house arrest change on 19 March, which was publicly confirmed during Eid al-Fitr celebrations.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revoked the house arrest status of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, returning him to KPK detention in connection with an alleged corruption case involving Hajj quotas. The move follows a brief transfer to house arrest on 19 March 2026 at his family's request, which was publicly confirmed by the KPK on 21 March during Eid al-Fitr celebrations. This development underscores ongoing scrutiny of high-level officials in Indonesia's anti-corruption efforts, with Yaqut's health examination currently underway before his full reinstatement in custody.

Escalating tensions involving Israel, Iran, and the United States are casting doubts on the traditional safe-haven status of US dollar-denominated assets, as geopolitical risks increasingly influence global asset pricing and capital flows. Analysts warn that a prolonged conflict could erode confidence in these assets through US corporate exposures in the region, potential energy-driven inflation pressures disrupting Federal Reserve policies, and heightened structural vulnerabilities in US financial markets. This situation may accelerate de-dollarisation trends and prompt a structural reassessment of dollar assets, with investors exploring alternatives amid persistent fiscal deficits and redemption pressures on major funds.

The proposed amendment to the Regional Government Law in Indonesia's 2026 National Legislation Programme reignites debates on balancing central and regional relations, which have fluctuated like a pendulum between decentralisation and centralisation since the 1998 reforms. Drawing on constitutional principles such as popular sovereignty, unitary state, and presidential system, the article advocates for a long-term legal political design termed 'democratic unitary executive' to achieve stable integration without fragmenting national governance. This approach views regional autonomy as an instrument of local democracy within a cohesive national framework, urging lawmakers to transcend mere redistribution of powers for a more principled reform.

The article explores how Eid al-Fitr in Indonesia drives a massive economic surge, with Bank Indonesia projecting cash needs of Rp160.3 trillion for 2025, rising to Rp185.6 trillion in 2026, highlighting its role as a key liquidity engine through heightened household consumption and the mudik phenomenon that redistributes wealth from cities to villages. It critiques the paradox of spiritual simplicity clashing with consumption euphoria, advocating for leveraging zakat, infak, and sedekah to foster sustainable socio-economic transformation and financial resilience rather than temporary prosperity.

Three prominent Arab intellectuals—a social scientist from Al Jazeera, a senior Saudi columnist, and an Al Arabiya economic analyst—argue that the US and Israeli strikes on Tehran under Operation Epic Fury repeat the historical blunders of past interventions, such as the Iraq invasion, by treating ancient civilisations as blank slates for Western-style democracy. Hisham Jaafar highlights the "blank slate" concept, critiquing American arrogance that ignores centuries of cultural evolution, leading to sectarian chaos rather than stability. Their combined analysis warns that the Arab world risks failing to recognise the true threats posed by such misguided foreign policies reshaping the Middle East.

The recent surge in gold prices has raised the zakat threshold to Rp255 million annually, potentially excluding many middle-class Indonesians from zakat obligations and reducing funds for the poor. In response, Baznas has set the 2026 zakat income nisab equivalent to 85 grams of 14-karat gold, lowering the monthly threshold to Rp7.64 million to better reflect local living costs and maintain zakat's role as a social safety net. This adjustment draws on flexible Islamic jurisprudence interpretations to ensure broader participation amid economic pressures, though it sparks debate on balancing muzaki burdens and mustahik needs.

TB Hasanuddin, a member of Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR), has asserted that the DPR is authorised to probe the acid attack on KontraS activist Andrie Yunus by summoning government officials and relevant parties, citing oversight mechanisms under the 2011 State Intelligence Law. The case, allegedly involving members of the TNI's Strategic Intelligence Agency (BAIS), demands transparent and accountable handling to restore public trust in state institutions and ensure justice for the victim. The TNI has already secured four suspects from its ranks, highlighting the need for impartial enforcement of the law.

The article reflects on the acid attack against Kontras activist Andrie Yunus as a brutal form of political terror aimed at silencing civil society voices and undermining rational discourse in Indonesia's democracy. Drawing on Jürgen Habermas's ideals of a communicative public sphere, it critiques how physical intimidation erodes democratic values, echoing global trends of declining media freedom and civic space. The piece calls for genuine restoration of civic virtue through transparent law enforcement and rejection of elitist defensiveness to prevent further erosion of public trust.

Traffic on the Sigli-Banda Aceh toll road in Indonesia surged by 251 percent on the second day of Eid al-Fitr on 22 March 2026, with 14,461 vehicles recorded on sections 2-6, reflecting high mobility during the holiday return period. Similar significant increases were observed on other Trans-Sumatra toll sections, such as Kuala Tanjung-Tebing Tinggi-Parapat with a 197.88 percent rise to 64,283 vehicles, driven by ongoing travel for returns and tourism. PT Hutama Karya is continuously monitoring these routes to ensure smooth, safe, and comfortable journeys for users during the Eid period.

US President Donald Trump surprised observers by claiming positive developments in talks with Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, following a delay in planned strikes on Iran's energy infrastructure. Iran denied any negotiations, accusing Trump of market manipulation, yet global markets reacted positively with oil prices dropping 12% to $98.95 per barrel and stock markets surging on de-escalation hopes. The situation remains tense, with Trump demanding Iran halt its nuclear ambitions and threatening renewed attacks if talks fail within five days, amid warnings of a severe global energy crisis.

The Iranian government has firmly denied engaging in any direct negotiations with US President Donald Trump, with parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf accusing Trump of manipulating financial and oil markets to extricate the US and Israel from conflict. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei acknowledged receiving messages from friendly nations about potential US requests for talks to end the war but rejected claims of ongoing discussions. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed conversations with Trump about possible deals leveraging military achievements, while committing to continued strikes on Iran and Lebanon to safeguard Israeli interests.

Amid global market volatility and surging gold prices, ultra-wealthy consumers are increasingly turning to luxury jewellery as an alternative investment, with coloured gemstones like rubies, sapphires, and emeralds emerging as long-term value assets. High-profile auction sales, such as a Tiffany & Co. necklace fetching over US$4.2 million—ten times its estimate—underscore the shift of luxury jewellery from mere accessories to recognised investment holdings. Driven by inflation, geopolitical uncertainty, and the enduring appeal of rare stones that cannot be easily replicated, this trend is boosted by celebrity endorsements and offers strong resale values, particularly for iconic brands dominating 90% of secondary market transactions.

Traffic volumes heading towards Jakarta on the Cipali Toll Road surged significantly on Monday night, 23 March 2026, with around 56,000 vehicles passing through Cikopo, marking a 92% increase from the previous day. One-way traffic management remains in place to ensure smooth flow, while overall traffic on the toll road dipped slightly by one percent. Astra Tol Cipali advises drivers to avoid stopping on the roadside except in emergencies, to rest at nearby areas if fatigued or drowsy, and to ensure vehicles and drivers are in optimal condition for safety.

President Prabowo Subianto has reassured that foreign investment in Indonesia's broadcasting and publishing sectors will continue to be governed by national laws, limiting foreign ownership to 20% in private broadcasting institutions and prohibiting majority foreign stakes in press companies. This statement addresses concerns over the Indonesia-US Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART), which includes clauses potentially allowing up to 100% foreign ownership, but Prabowo emphasised that the deal respects domestic regulations and remains subject to parliamentary ratification and renegotiation if needed. Industry leaders, including AJI's chairman, warn that such provisions could threaten national media independence and information sovereignty.

President Prabowo Subianto engaged in a phone conversation with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to extend Eid al-Fitr greetings for 1447 Hijriah, underscoring Indonesia's enduring solidarity with Palestine. This communication is part of a broader series of outreach efforts by Prabowo to leaders of Muslim-majority nations, including Egypt, UAE, Malaysia, Turkey, Pakistan, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia, aimed at fostering bilateral relations and international cooperation. The gesture reaffirms Indonesia's historical commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause and advocating for a just peace in international forums.