Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 March 2026

Showing 101-150 of 757 articles

Traffic Chief Ensures Arterial Roads Under Control Despite One-Way on Toll

Indonesia's National Police Traffic Corps Chief, Inspector General Agus Suryonugroho, has assured that arterial roads remain manageable following the implementation of a national one-way system on toll roads during the peak return flow after Eid al-Fitr. Inspections confirm that traffic impacts are well-handled, with a focus on congested urban areas and popular tourist spots, as part of the 2026 Ketupat Operation aimed at ensuring safe and joyful family reunions. The operation, led by Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, emphasises the humanitarian aspect of facilitating smooth mudik journeys under the theme 'Safe Return, Happy Family'.

Japek II South Toll Road Finally Opened, Helping to Ease Return Traffic Flow

PT Jasa Marga has reopened the functional lane of the Jakarta-Cikampek II South Toll Road (Japek II South) Sadang-Setu segment, spanning 52 km, to alleviate heavy return traffic from Cipularang to Jakarta during the 2026 Lebaran period. The lane, operational since 19 March with safety measures including lighting, signage, and emergency services in place, recorded 17,298 vehicles in its initial days and is toll-free for this segment. This initiative, authorised by police discretion, aims to distribute traffic and reduce congestion on existing routes, with drivers advised to maintain speeds below 60 km/h and ensure fuel supplies.

Monitoring the 2026 Eid Return Flow, PMI Tangsel Prepares 6 Health Posts Operating 24 Hours Non-Stop

The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) in South Tangerang has established six health posts operating around the clock to ensure the smooth flow of travellers returning after the 2026 Eid al-Fitr celebrations, anticipating increased movement through this key area near the capital. These posts, staffed by rotating teams of 15 personnel and supported by ambulances and motorbikes, have already handled five accidents resulting in 12 minor injuries and one fatality, primarily due to driver fatigue. Collaborating with military, police, health, and transportation authorities, PMI urges revellers to prioritise rest and utilise the facilities to enhance road safety during this critical period.

Ciputra Life Records 69% Surge in Investment Returns Throughout 2025 - Finansial Bisnis

PT Asuransi Ciputra Indonesia, known as Ciputra Life, achieved investment returns of Rp66.24 trillion in 2025, marking a 69% year-on-year increase, primarily driven by investments in government and corporate bonds. The company's CEO, Hengky Djojosantoso, highlighted a cautious approach to equity investments, focusing on fundamentals and growth prospects, particularly in mining and energy sectors, while emphasising portfolio diversification to match long-term liabilities. This performance aligns with the broader life insurance industry's 103.1% growth, attributed to falling BI rates that boosted bond prices and corporate profitability, underscoring a favourable economic environment for insurers in Indonesia.

MTI Urges Government to Strengthen Port Management and Toll Road Safety

The General Secretary of the Indonesian Transport Society (MTI), Aditya Dwi Laksana, has called for a comprehensive evaluation of the 2026 Lebaran return flow management, highlighting issues such as congestion at the Ketapang-Gilimanuk ferry crossing and heightened accident risks on toll roads during one-way traffic systems. He emphasised the need for optimal ferry operations, enhanced traffic management at ports, health checks for bus drivers, and better utilisation of alternative rest areas to mitigate overcrowding. Additionally, MTI advocates for intensified free return programmes and flexible work policies to distribute traffic more evenly, underscoring the importance of safety and efficiency in Indonesia's transportation infrastructure during peak holiday periods.

BMKG: Heavy Rain Looms for Returnees During Peak Eid Homecoming Flow in 2026

The Indonesian Agency for Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics (BMKG) has forecasted light to moderate rain across most of Indonesia during the peak Eid return period from 24 to 30 March 2026, with potential for heavy downpours and extreme weather in regions including Sumatra, Java, Bali, and parts of Kalimantan and Papua. Authorities urge heightened vigilance among travellers to mitigate disruptions from heavy rain, lightning, strong winds, and high waves that could impact road and sea travel. This weather outlook underscores the need for robust infrastructure planning to ensure safe mobility during one of the nation's busiest travel seasons.

Tangsel to Develop AI Service, Integrating Permit Access and Information

The Tangerang Selatan City Government is set to launch Tangsel ONE, an AI-based digital service on 30 April 2026, allowing residents to handle permits, submit complaints, and access local information such as culinary recommendations via WhatsApp conversations. This platform aims to streamline bureaucracy, enhance public service responsiveness, and foster a smart city environment by integrating thousands of services into a single, efficient system. By positioning itself as a 24/7 'city assistant', Tangsel ONE underscores the administration's commitment to transparent and user-centric governance amid the city's dynamic growth.

China Seeks to Lower Fuel Price Increases as Other Asian Countries Raise Prices, Why?

China is planning to halve the proposed increases in petrol and diesel prices to 1,160 yuan and 1,115 yuan per tonne, respectively, in response to surging energy costs amid the Iran conflict, aiming to ease the burden on drivers. While other Asian nations adjust prices upward due to the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran, China benefits from its vast oil reserves—estimated at 900 million to 1.4 billion barrels—built from cheap imports from sanctioned Iran and Gulf states. This move highlights China's strategic stockpiling efforts to mitigate global oil supply disruptions, as Brent crude prices fluctuate above $100 per barrel amid conflicting US-Iran negotiation reports.

Student Startups Are Not a Passing Trend: Digital Business Campus Produces Young Founders

The trend of student-led startups in Indonesia is growing positively, transforming university campuses into innovation hubs that produce technology-based solutions to societal needs. Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM), as a Digital Business Campus, strengthens its role through the Nusa Mandiri Startup Center (NSC), offering incubation, mentoring, pitching training, and funding access to nurture sustainable business models. NSC Head Siti Nurlela emphasises that these initiatives go beyond following digital trends, aiming to create competitive young founders and job creators in the digital economy.

Reviewing Ngurah Rai Airport, Minister of Communication and Digital Ensures Safe Eid Travel Telecommunications

Minister of Communication and Digital Meutya Hafid has assured that telecommunications and internet services will run smoothly during the 2026 Eid travel period, following an inspection of the integrated post at Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport. National download speeds average 95 Mbps, with Bali exceeding 105 Mbps and the airport reaching over 200 Mbps, while frequency interference for flights remains minimal and safe. The ministry, in collaboration with mobile operators, has deployed around 500 posts nationwide to handle any issues, having effectively resolved over 90% of complaints during recent peak periods.

Middle East Conflict Impacts Oil Prices, Legislator Warns of Burden on State Budget

Golkar legislator Eric Hermawan has cautioned that the primary economic challenge for Indonesia from the Middle East conflict lies not in physical oil supply shortages, but in the vulnerability of the state budget to global oil price fluctuations. He noted that a $1 increase in oil prices per barrel requires reallocating Rp67 trillion to stabilise domestic energy costs, potentially leading to a Rp201 trillion burden if prices rise to $100 per barrel under the 2026 budget assumptions. This could widen the fiscal deficit and heighten risks of breaching legal limits, underscoring the need for effective financial shock management.

Surabaya Rail Division States Long-Distance Train Tickets for Eid Period Still Available Until 1 April 2026

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Daop 8 Surabaya reports that 109,355 long-distance train tickets remain available for the Eid travel period ending 1 April 2026, with 80% of total capacity already sold. Passenger numbers have surged, serving nearly 634,000 travellers so far, with a peak return flow expected today at over 54,000 passengers across key stations like Surabaya Gubeng and Malang. The company urges passengers to arrive early, verify routes, and consider alternative schedules for safe and comfortable journeys during the busy holiday season.

Causing Traffic Jams, 21,000 Vehicles Faced Insufficient E-Toll Balances During Eid Return Journey

PT Jasa Marga has urged motorists returning to Jabotabek to ensure sufficient e-toll balances to avoid queues and delays at toll gates, following an incident where 21,000 vehicles at the Kalikangkung toll gate on the Batang-Semarang toll road had insufficient funds during the Eid al-Fitr holiday period from 11-22 March 2026. This issue, affecting 4.9% of the 442,000 transactions, led to significant top-up activities and traffic congestion. The company recommends preparing at least Rp500,000 for Semarang-Jakarta trips and Rp1,000,000 for Surabaya-Jakarta, with top-ups available via apps, banks, and rest areas to maintain smooth traffic flow on the Trans Java toll road.

Beware of New AI-Powered Scam Tactics, Numerous Victims Already

Cybercriminals in Southeast Asia, particularly Cambodia, are increasingly using AI deepfake technology to recruit 'face models' for sophisticated online scams, such as love scams and cryptocurrency investment frauds. These operations involve real-time facial manipulation during video calls to build emotional connections with victims, making detection difficult and resulting in widespread financial losses. While promising high salaries, the schemes often trap workers in exploitative conditions, highlighting the urgent need for greater awareness and regulatory measures against AI-enabled cybercrime.

National One-Way System Implemented for Return Traffic, Here is Kakorlantas's Advice to Travellers

Indonesia's National Traffic Corps (Korlantas) Polri has introduced a national one-way traffic system on major toll roads from KM 414 Kalikangkung to KM 70 Cikampek Utama, starting 24 March 2026, to manage the anticipated surge in return traffic following the peak Eid al-Fitr exodus. The policy, launched by Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo alongside relevant ministers, is data-driven and flexible, adjusting in real-time based on traffic conditions to prevent congestion. Kakorlantas Irjen Agus Suryonugroho urges the public to utilise the government's work-from-anywhere (WFA) policy to stagger their return journeys, thereby easing pressure on key routes and ensuring safer travels.

How the PRR Task Force Ensures Targeted and Effective Housing Assistance for Disaster Survivors

The Task Force for Accelerating Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (Satgas PRR) post-Sumatra disaster is ensuring that housing aid for survivors is delivered accurately and effectively through multi-layered data verification and tailored schemes. Chairman Muhammad Tito Karnavian highlighted that assistance, including temporary housing, permanent units, and waiting funds, is based on local government data validated by the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), with options like monthly stipends for those preferring to stay with family or rent. This data-driven approach addresses varying damage levels with specific aid amounts and construction methods, either in situ or in communal relocation sites, to meet community needs and prevent misallocation.

Newcomers to South Tangerang After Eid Holiday Must Report to RT/RW, Anticipating Urbanisation Surge

The South Tangerang city government has mandated that individuals arriving in the area following the Eid holiday report to their local neighbourhood heads (RT/RW) to facilitate data collection and mitigate urbanisation impacts. Mayor Benyamin Davnie emphasised the importance of this measure for monitoring and addressing social and security issues, noting that post-Eid urban migration is inevitable but should be managed through proper planning. He urged residents not to bring additional family members without preparation and hopes for stronger economies in rural areas to curb excessive migration.

Ceramic Industry Pushes for Domestic Market Obligation on Natural Gas

The Indonesian Ceramic Industry Association (Asaki) is urging the government to implement a Domestic Market Obligation (DMO) for natural gas to ensure a stable supply for the ceramic sector, which is facing challenges from supply disruptions, rising energy costs, and import pressures. With production utilisation at 70-72% in the first quarter of 2026, below the 80% target, Asaki emphasises the need to prioritise domestic industrial needs to sustain employment and investment. This push aligns with the sector's significant contribution to the national economy, including a 650 million square metre annual capacity and absorption of 150,000 workers, amid broader manufacturing growth.

Disaster Recovery Task Force Ensures Targeted Housing Assistance for Sumatra Survivors

The Satuan Tugas Percepatan Rehabilitasi dan Rekonstruksi (Satgas PRR) for post-disaster Sumatra has implemented a rigorous data verification process to ensure housing aid, including temporary shelters (huntara), permanent homes (huntap), and housing waiting funds (DTH), reaches the right survivors based on their needs and damage assessments. Led by Muhammad Tito Karnavian, the initiative offers flexible options such as family stays with stipends or self-rebuild funds, tailored to damage levels from light repairs at Rp15 million to heavy reconstruction at Rp60 million or communal builds. This data-driven, collaborative approach involving local governments, BPS, BNPB, and the Ministry of Public Works and Housing aims to accelerate recovery and provide decent housing for all affected communities in Sumatra.

MAKI supports KPK to achieve greater success and protect the feelings of the people

The Indonesian Anti-Corruption Society (MAKI) has expressed support for the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to enhance its performance in combating corruption while urging it to avoid actions that hurt public sentiment, such as the controversial transfer of suspect Yaqut Cholil Qoumas to house detention during Eid. MAKI presented banners at KPK headquarters highlighting the agency's record for special treatment of detainees and criticised the move as discriminatory, particularly against co-suspect Alex and other ordinary detainees. Despite praising KPK's reversal of the decision, MAKI plans to report the incident to the KPK Supervisory Board to prevent future blunders and restore public trust, amid comparisons to the Attorney General's Office's stronger anti-corruption efforts.

World Water Day: A Series of Pertamina's Stories from Papua to Disaster-Affected Areas

On World Water Day, Pertamina highlights its efforts to provide clean water access in remote Papua regions like Merauke and Jayapura, where communities previously relied on unsafe sources, by constructing seven bore wells serving 4,585 people. In disaster-struck Sumatra, the company built 25 new wells, reactivated 43 others, and delivered five million litres of water via tankers, aiding over 17,000 survivors who faced contaminated supplies post-floods. These initiatives align with UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 6 on clean water and sanitation, underscoring Pertamina's commitment to social responsibility and community resilience in Indonesia's vulnerable areas.

Acceleration of PLTD to PLTS Conversion Programme: Its Impact on Listed Companies

BPI Danantara is accelerating the conversion of diesel power plants (PLTD) to solar power plants (PLTS) to enhance operational efficiency, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and support Indonesia's clean energy transition, potentially lowering long-term energy subsidies and bolstering national energy resilience. This initiative presents significant opportunities for listed companies involved in PLTS development and supply chains, including TMAI, INDY, TOBA, MEDC, FUTR, PTBA, and ADRO, which are expanding into solar projects amid rising global oil prices. Experts highlight the need for private sector synergy, regulatory ease, and careful risk management, though challenges like intermittency and overcapacity in electricity supply remain, positioning PLTS as a long-term diversification strategy rather than an immediate revenue driver.

Viral Incident of Tourists Charged Rp 25,000 in Kintamani, Dispar Responds

A viral video showing a tourist being stopped and charged Rp 25,000 for entering the Kintamani area in Bangli Regency has sparked criticism on social media. The Bangli Tourism Office confirmed that the Penelokan main road has been a paid tourist attraction since 1993, regulated under local bylaws, with entry fees varying by visitor category to fund tourism management. Officials clarified that exemptions apply to locals and those merely passing through, amid ongoing operations at designated checkpoints.

Garut-Sumedang Road Closed Due to Landslide, Joint Team Evacuates Debris

Heavy rainfall in Garut Regency triggered a 20-metre-high cliff to collapse, completely blocking the main road connecting Garut to Sumedang with 15 metres of debris. A joint team comprising TNI, police, BPBD, Public Works Department, Brimob, and Tagana is using heavy machinery to clear the site, with no casualties reported. Authorities urge caution against potential follow-up disasters amid ongoing rain risks, advising alternative routes for travellers.

Bandung Police Chief Takes Direct Action to Ease Traffic Congestion in Pacira Tourist Area

The Chief of Bandung City Police, Kombes Pol Aldi Subartono, personally oversaw traffic management efforts in the popular Pacira tourist area during the Lebaran holiday surge, implementing situational traffic engineering and deploying personnel to key points to prevent total gridlock. With a significant increase in visitors flocking to Pasirjambu, Ciwidey, and Rancabali, the traffic unit introduced one-way systems and manual controls to maintain flow. This hands-on approach underscores the challenges of managing holiday tourism in Bandung Regency and the role of police in ensuring public safety and mobility.

Strait of Hormuz Opened on Limited Basis, Indef Urges Indonesia to Negotiate with Iran

Iran has allowed transit ships not affiliated with the United States or Israel to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, presenting a strategic opportunity for Indonesia to negotiate direct access and bolster its national energy security. Abra Talattov from Indef highlights that securing this route, which carries about 20% of the world's oil supply, could stabilise domestic fuel prices, control inflation, and reduce fiscal pressures from energy subsidies. This move could position Indonesia as a neutral player in regional energy distribution, potentially transforming its geopolitical and economic standing amid global tensions.

Smooth Road Infrastructure, Returnees Appreciate Mudik Services in Central Java

Numerous returnees traversing Central Java during the 2026 Lebaran mudik and return flow have praised the improved road infrastructure and supportive services provided by the provincial government. Travellers highlighted the smoother roads, clean rest areas, and available health posts, noting a significant enhancement compared to previous years, with minimal disruptions despite some incidents. Governor Ahmad Luthfi affirmed the roads' good condition and a decline in traffic accidents, attributing this to both infrastructure upgrades and heightened public awareness of road safety.

Peak Return Traffic: One-Way Scheme Extended to KM 459 on Semarang-Solo Toll Road

Indonesian Police Traffic Corps has extended the one-way traffic management scheme for the 2026 return flow on the Trans Java Toll Road up to kilometre 459 on the Semarang-Solo section due to surging vehicle volumes. Chief of Traffic Corps, Inspector General Agus Suryonugroho, stated that this extension from the initial kilometre 414 at Kalikangkung Gate aims to handle the predicted peak traffic on 24 March. Local one-way systems are also in place, with monitoring to continue into the next day, following the national scheme's implementation led by National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo.

Strengthening Risk Mitigation, BNI Sekuritas Achieves International ISO 22301:2019 Certification

PT BNI Sekuritas, a subsidiary of Bank Negara Indonesia, has obtained the international ISO 22301:2019 certification for its Business Continuity Management System, underscoring its preparedness to maintain operations and client services amid crises, emergencies, or disasters. This achievement, part of a two-year business transformation, enhances the firm's ability to identify, manage, and respond to risks, bolstered by four key pillars: operational security, proven reputation, rapid recovery, and regulatory compliance. The certification adds significant value for retail and institutional investors by ensuring their assets are handled with best practices in service continuity, reinforcing BNI Sekuritas' position as a trusted brokerage and investment banking firm in Indonesia's capital markets.

Operational Hours of Purwomartani Functional Toll Road Extended until 10:00 PM WIB

The operational hours of the functional Purwomartani-Prambanan toll road have been extended until 10:00 PM WIB to alleviate traffic congestion on arterial routes during the Lebaran 2026 homecoming period. Yogyakarta Police Chief Irjen Anggoro Sukartono announced the extension starting today, noting that over 67,000 vehicles have already exited through the gate, with nearly 17,000 entering by 6:00 PM. Collaboration with Jasamarga is enhancing facilities like lighting to manage peak return traffic, expected today, while urging drivers to adhere to speed limits.

Iran's True Face: Regional Superpower or Just a Fragile Giant?

Iran is often regarded as a major power in the Middle East due to its large population, vast oil reserves, and substantial military personnel, yet it lags in per capita income and military spending compared to neighbours like Saudi Arabia and Israel. While its economy totals US$356.5 billion in 2025, driven significantly by oil production of 4.63 million barrels per day and reserves of 208.6 billion barrels, sanctions and investment limitations hinder its ability to translate these resources into broader prosperity. This analysis highlights Iran's reliance on scale and asymmetric strategies, such as affordable drone technology, to maintain regional influence despite economic vulnerabilities.

Ministry of Transportation Inspects 60,000 Buses Ahead of Eid, 9,000 Banned from Operating

The Indonesian Ministry of Transportation has conducted safety inspections on 60,946 bus units ahead of the 1447 Hijriah Eid al-Fitr period, resulting in approximately 9,000 buses being prohibited from operating due to administrative and technical violations. Of these, 1,941 were banned for administrative issues and 7,131 for major technical faults, while 38,758 buses were deemed roadworthy. This initiative, which also included health checks on 683 drivers with 634 declared fit, underscores the government's commitment to enhancing road safety during peak holiday travel.

One-Way National Route for Lebaran Return Flow Begins to Open, Governor Luthfi: Don't Rush

The Indonesian government, led by Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi and National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, has initiated the national one-way traffic system on toll roads to manage the peak return flow of vehicles following the 2026 Lebaran holiday, starting from the Kalikangkung toll gate in Semarang. This measure, supported by three ministers, aims to alleviate congestion as over 2.3 million vehicles have already left Jakarta, with officials urging drivers to prioritise safety, utilise rest areas, and consider alternatives like train travel or Work From Anywhere policies. Governor Luthfi highlighted the improved road infrastructure in Central Java, reduced accident rates, and stable supplies of essentials, emphasising collaborative efforts to ensure a smooth and safe return for millions of travellers.

Wave II Peak Return Traffic at Bakauheni on 28-29 March

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry anticipates the second peak of Idul Fitri 1447 H return traffic at the Bakauheni-Merak crossing on 28-29 March 2026, following the first wave on 24 March, with continuous influx of travellers filling parking and waiting areas. The company is coordinating with BMKG to monitor weather and prioritise safety, while implementing a single regular tariff across seven docks from 23 to 29 March to support national mobility and logistics. This vital route underscores the government's efforts to manage holiday travel surges efficiently.

BGN: Certification Completeness as a Basis for Determining MBG Kitchen Gradation

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has established a special unit to monitor certification compliance in public kitchens for the free nutritious meal (MBG) programme, as directed by President Prabowo Subianto to enhance service quality. Certification completeness, particularly for hygiene, halal, and HACCP standards, will determine the classification and gradation of Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG), with further certifications required for human resources and environmental analysis. BGN has already sanctioned 1,251 SPPG nationwide for violations, including temporary suspensions, highlighting enforcement in regions like Java and Sumatra to ensure food safety and programme standards.

The 'main players' who keep Jakarta alive at Eid

During Eid al-Fitr, while millions of Indonesians undertake the mudik migration to reunite with family, essential workers like bus driver Dasman, minimarket clerk Anwar, and zakat officer Abi remain in Jakarta to maintain vital services such as transport, retail, and alms distribution. These 'main players' sacrifice personal celebrations for financial stability and duty, highlighting the human backbone of urban resilience amid government policies like work-from-anywhere initiatives to manage travel surges. Their stories underscore the quiet sacrifices that ensure cities like Jakarta continue functioning during national holidays, blending economic necessity with spiritual commitment.

One-Way Traffic Engineering Implemented on Several Routes in West Java

Traffic authorities in West Java have introduced one-way systems and alternative routes on key paths, including from Bandung to Lembang and Puncak to Bogor, to manage the busy but smooth flow during the Eid al-Fitr holiday period. These measures, effective from morning to afternoon on 24 March, accommodate increased vehicle movement dominated by private cars and motorcycles, with speeds controlled at 20-40 km/h to prevent congestion. The initiatives highlight ongoing efforts to handle holiday traffic surges, particularly on the fourth day of Lebaran, ensuring safer and more efficient travel for returnees and tourists.

Task Force Head Tito Ensures Disaster Victims' Housing Aid in Sumatra is On Target

Muhammad Tito Karnavian, head of the Task Force for Accelerating Rehabilitation and Reconstruction post-Sumatra disaster, has assured that housing assistance for survivors is distributed accurately through multi-layered data verification involving local governments and the Central Statistics Agency (BPS). Aid varies by damage level, with Rp15 million for minor repairs, Rp30 million for moderate damage, or an option of Rp60 million for self-construction, alongside choices for in-situ rebuilding by BNPB or communal relocation by the Ministry of Public Works and Housing. This approach, including calls for local task forces to expedite data collection, aims to ensure swift and targeted reconstruction, underscoring the government's commitment to effective disaster recovery in Sumatra.

Peak Return Flow: 5,000 Passengers Expected at Rambutan Terminal

The return flow of Lebaran holidaymakers at Terminal Kampung Rambutan in East Jakarta is set to peak tomorrow with an estimated 4,000 to 5,000 passengers arriving, marking a significant increase from the 2,133 recorded by midday Tuesday. Officials anticipate two peak periods on 25 and 29 March 2026, driven by varying holiday schedules, with comprehensive security measures involving police, military, and local government ensuring safety amid the surge. Enhanced facilities and advisories for using official terminals underscore efforts to maintain order and passenger well-being during this critical post-holiday period.

Purwomartani Toll Gate Operating Hours Extended Until 22:00

The operating hours of the Purwomartani Toll Gate in Sleman, Yogyakarta, have been extended to 06:00-22:00 WIB during the 2026 Lebaran return flow to alleviate traffic congestion towards Central Java, as announced by the DIY Police Chief. This measure supports the high volume of vehicles, with over 67,000 passing through daily and peak hourly rates exceeding 1,800. However, navigation issues have led some drivers to stray onto rural farm roads, prompting local residents to voluntarily assist in directing traffic.

Return Traffic Increases, Open-Close System Implemented on Cipali Toll Road

Traffic volumes on the Cipali toll road have surged as holidaymakers return to Jakarta and surrounding areas during the post-Eid al-Fitr period in 2026, with around 74,000 vehicles recorded by late afternoon on H+2. To manage the flow, a one-way system remains in place, while an open-close mechanism has been introduced at rest areas to prevent overcrowding and maintain smooth movement. Authorities urge drivers to prioritise safety, avoid stopping on shoulders except in emergencies, and use alternative rest spots outside toll gates if needed, ensuring no additional toll costs for such detours.

Iran Energy Crisis Drives UK to Implement Eco-Friendly Home Standards

The UK government has introduced new regulations mandating the installation of heat pumps and solar panels in all new homes starting from 2028, in response to the economic impacts of the Iran conflict and disruptions in the global oil market. This Future Homes Standard aims to enhance energy resilience by promoting on-site renewable energy generation, primarily from solar power, and low-carbon heating systems. Industry leaders have welcomed the move, noting a surge in demand for clean energy solutions, which could reduce costs and bolster the UK's energy independence amid climate concerns.

ABP Supports Attorney General's Office Involvement in Monitoring MBG Programme

The Relawan Arus Bawah Prabowo (ABP) has expressed strong support for the Attorney General's Office (Kejagung), particularly the Deputy Attorney General for Intelligence (Jamintel), to oversee the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. This involvement is seen as a strategic measure to ensure transparency, accountability, and effective targeting, incorporating multi-layered supervision including legal intelligence, financial audits by BPKP, and public participation to prevent deviations. As a flagship initiative of the Prabowo Subianto administration, the MBG programme aims to enhance Indonesia's human resources through improved education, health, and productivity, making robust oversight essential for its long-term success.

Is US-Israel Aggression Truly Causing Cracks in Iran?

Yuri Thamrin critiques Vedi R. Hadiz's analysis on the potential internal consequences of war for Iran, arguing that while social and economic tensions could exacerbate vulnerabilities, short-term conflicts often rally public support around the regime, as seen in the Iran-Iraq War. He highlights Iran's strong state apparatus, alliances with powers like China and Russia, and adaptive mechanisms against sanctions as factors bolstering resilience. This balanced perspective underscores the need to weigh vulnerabilities against a nation's capacity for consolidation amid external pressures.

National One-Way Return Flow Traffic Management Effective, Traffic Under Control: Kakorlantas

Indonesia's National Police Traffic Corps (Kakorlantas) has reported that the one-way traffic management system for the return flow of holidaymakers, implemented from KM 414 GT Kalikangkung to KM 70 GT Cikampek Utara, is running effectively, keeping traffic volumes controlled despite peak density on 24 December. Measures include phased one-way schemes, contraflow lanes, and extensions to local toll sections, alongside security on arterial roads and the Pantura route to handle high tourist movements. Authorities are urging the public to utilise work-from-anywhere policies to stagger travel times and enforcing restrictions on three-axle vehicles to ensure smooth and safe journeys.

Korlantas Polri opens possibility of extending national "one way" scheme

Indonesia's National Traffic Corps (Korlantas) Polri is considering extending the national one-way traffic scheme on the Trans Java toll road if vehicle volumes remain high during the return flow of the holiday period. The scheme, officially launched by Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo and several ministers, covers the route from Semarang's Kalikangkung Toll Gate to Cikampek Utara Toll Gate, with local and segmental implementations already in place. Korlantas urges the public to utilise work-from-anywhere arrangements on 26-28 March to ease congestion.

Jokowi's Residence in Solo Swarmed by Residents Wanting to Pay Respects

Residents braved light rain to gather at former President Joko Widodo's home in Solo, eagerly awaiting a chance to meet him in person. One visitor from NTT, Khatrina Aring, shared her joy after finally photographing with Jokowi during her trip for her husband's medical treatment. The event highlights Jokowi's enduring popularity post-presidency, as he briefly mentioned upcoming plans to visit NTT.

Pakistan Ready to Facilitate US-Iran Negotiations

Pakistan's Foreign Ministry has expressed willingness to host talks between the United States and Iran to resolve their conflict through diplomacy, amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East. This offer follows US President Donald Trump's decision to delay strikes on Iranian facilities and claims of positive discussions, though Iran denies any negotiations. High-level communications between Pakistani officials and leaders from both sides underscore efforts to promote dialogue, despite Iran's deep mistrust of the US and conditions for any ceasefire talks.

Return Flow for Eid 2026 in Tangerang Begins to Increase, Peak Predicted on 25 March

The return flow of vehicles for Eid al-Fitr 2026 in Tangerang Regency has started to rise since Tuesday, 24 March, as the holiday period draws to a close, with the peak expected on Wednesday, 25 March, coinciding with the resumption of work activities. Traffic authorities are implementing measures including 12 security posts and service points, along with two on the toll road, to manage the influx, supported by 1,123 personnel in Operation Ketupat Maung 2026. This effort not only covers return routes but also shopping centres and vital objects to prevent congestion during the post-holiday period.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Meets with Airlangga to Discuss Energy Adjustments and Economic Stimulus

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya participated in a virtual inter-ministerial coordination meeting led by Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto, focusing on plans for energy sector adjustments and economic stimulus policies. The discussions aimed to safeguard national economic stability and sustainability amid global dynamics, with strategic inputs from ministers including Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani, Basic and Secondary Education Minister Abdul Mu'ti, and Higher Education, Science, and Technology Minister Brian Yuliarto. This meeting underscores the government's proactive approach to formulating policies that support economic resilience.