A political and military analyst from Universitas Nasional views the Indonesian Defence Ministry and TNI's fuel efficiency policy as a strategic signal of caution amid global uncertainties, particularly due to Middle East conflicts, energy price fluctuations, and supply chain disruptions. This approach aims to maintain a proportional defence posture and demonstrate fiscal discipline to the public, thereby preserving political legitimacy under economic pressures. Externally, it reinforces Indonesia's low-profile stance in geopolitics, aligning with its free and active foreign policy principles without appearing to heighten combat readiness.

Indonesian National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo inaugurated the national one-way traffic scheme at the Kalikangkung Toll Gate in Semarang to alleviate congestion during the peak Lebaran return period on 24 March 2026. The measure, effective from KM 414 Kalikangkung to KM 70 Cikampek, addresses the high volume of over 2.3 million vehicles leaving Jakarta via toll roads, with the police emphasising safety, rest facilities, and alternative transport options like trains. Accompanied by key ministers and officials, the Chief distributed aid packages to commuters, underscoring the commitment to safe and happy family reunions under the "Safe Return, Happy Family" slogan.

PT Jasamarga Transjawa Tol (JTT) is optimising operations at the Cikampek Utama Toll Gate in response to the national one-way traffic scheme during the Lebaran return flow, designating 22 booths for Jakarta-bound vehicles and eight for Trans Java traffic to handle the surge. This adjustment, coordinated with police and implemented situationally based on real-time conditions, aims to smooth vehicle distribution and prevent congestion. Additional measures include deploying 19 mobile readers, on-site personnel, and real-time CCTV monitoring to ensure efficient transactions and traffic management.

Political analyst Iwan Setiawan has praised President Prabowo Subianto's call for national unity and collaboration among all elements of society to address uncertain global conditions, particularly economic pressures from conflicts such as the US-Israel tensions with Iran, during a Lebaran gathering at the Presidential Palace. He described Prabowo's strategy of engaging political elites, including opposition figures like former President Megawati Soekarnoputri, as a form of "Eid Diplomacy" that fosters constructive dialogue and prioritises harmony over conflict. This approach underscores Prabowo's political maturity in seeking input from diverse stakeholders to advance Indonesia's interests amid international challenges.

Indonesia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, has confirmed that the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage will go ahead on schedule, departing on 22 April, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions between the US and Iran. He stated that preparations, including accommodations, transportation, and funding, remain unaffected, with direct flights to Saudi Arabia still operational and no changes reported by Saudi authorities. The government is maintaining close communication to ensure the safety and smooth execution of the pilgrimage for Indonesian pilgrims, including provisions for elderly participants and secure Umrah operations.

Entin Sumartini, a 51-year-old resident of West Bandung, has restarted her street food business selling seblak and bakso after receiving support from the Ministry of Social Affairs' Social and Economic Empowerment Programme (PPSE), which provided essential equipment and materials to boost her income from Rp100,000 to Rp150,000 daily. This aid, integrated with President Prabowo Subianto's priority initiatives, also enables her son Diki to continue his education free of charge at the Integrated People's School (SRT) 17 in Cimahi, breaking the cycle of poverty. The story highlights the significant impact of government programmes in fostering economic independence and access to quality education for underprivileged families.

The DKI Jakarta Transportation Agency, in coordination with TNI, Polri, and local lawmakers, inspected the Kampung Rambutan Terminal in East Jakarta to ensure optimal readiness for the 2026 Lebaran return flow, focusing on facilities, passenger services, and traffic management. Officials reported that terminal infrastructure, including bus fleets and waiting areas, is in good condition to handle the influx of passengers arriving from outside the capital, with 2,501 arrivals recorded on the first day compared to only 344 departures. This preparation underscores the importance of inter-agency coordination and public safety measures to facilitate a smooth and secure post-holiday travel period.

Sri Murni, a 50-year-old widow, rebuilt her life after her husband's death by participating in the Ministry of Social Affairs' ATENSI social rehabilitation programme, which provided her with laundry skills training and essential equipment like washing machines and steam irons. Relocating to Lampung with her new husband, she started a small laundry service that has grown into a thriving business serving local residents, workers, and boarding house occupants, generating up to Rp150,000 daily. Her story exemplifies the impact of government empowerment initiatives in fostering self-reliance, allowing her to celebrate Eid in her own shop with gratitude and optimism for future expansion.

OpenAI is preparing to consolidate its products, including its browser, ChatGPT, and coding app Codex, into a single integrated desktop "super app" to simplify user experience and reduce service fragmentation. Led by CEO of Applications Fidji Simo and supported by President Greg Brockman, this move follows a phase of aggressive experimentation and aims to capitalise on successful products like Codex amid intense competition from rivals such as Google and Anthropic. The consolidation is also viewed as a step towards an initial public offering (IPO), strengthening the company's business focus under Simo's leadership, who previously served as CEO of Instacart.

Rudy, a resident of Setu in Bekasi, experienced a more serene Eid al-Fitr homecoming this year by utilising the free vehicle deposit service provided by Setu Police Station, alleviating his concerns about leaving his motorcycle unattended. This initiative, launched by Polda Metro Jaya across various police units, aims to prevent vehicle theft and maintain public order during the mass exodus period when homes are left empty. The programme underscores the Indonesian National Police's commitment to community safety and humane services, ensuring families can enjoy the holiday without worry, as highlighted by the appreciation from residents and police spokesperson Kombes Budi Hermanto.

Agus Jabo Priyono, Chairman of the Partai Rakyat Adil Makmur (PRIMA), has stressed the need for Indonesia to achieve self-reliance and a strong national identity amid intensifying global competition for natural resources, particularly in food and energy sectors. He advocates for sovereign industrialisation and downstreaming of resources based on Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution to ensure equitable distribution and prosperity, while criticising 'serakahnomics'—imperialist and oligarchic forces—that hinder government programmes under President Prabowo Subianto. Jabo calls for renewed national unity rooted in Pancasila to combat corruption, division, and foreign influences, paving the way for a just and prosperous Indonesia.

The Directorate General of Land Transportation under the Ministry of Transportation has inspected 60,946 bus fleets during the 2026 Eid transport period to ensure safety and comfort for holiday travellers using public transport. Of these, 63.59% were cleared for operation, while others received warnings, fines, or were prohibited due to technical or administrative violations; additionally, 92.83% of the 683 drivers checked were deemed fit to drive. This initiative, including checks at key rest areas, underscores the government's efforts to enhance road safety amid high travel volumes for the Idul Fitri celebrations.

The Kampung Rambutan Terminal in East Jakarta recorded 2,501 passengers arriving on 107 intercity buses during the initial phase of the 2026 Eid al-Fitr return flow, significantly outnumbering the 344 departing passengers on 47 buses. This surge indicates the start of the post-holiday influx of mudik travellers returning to Jakarta, with terminal officials anticipating peak waves on 25 March and 29 March. Enhanced coordination and service posts are in place to manage the expected increase in mobility and ensure safety and order.

Traffic volumes on the Trans Java Toll Road in Central Java have surged dramatically during the peak of the 2026 Eid al-Fitr return flow, with a reported 97.7 percent increase compared to the previous day, particularly at the Pejagan gate where 14,234 vehicles entered. Authorities have extended the national one-way traffic scheme from Cirebon to Weleri Kendal to manage the influx towards Jakarta. This surge highlights the significant strain on Indonesia's infrastructure during major holidays, underscoring the need for enhanced transport planning and capacity.

Jasa Marga has enforced a national one-way traffic system on major toll roads to manage the significant increase in vehicles returning from Semarang to Jakarta during the 2026 Lebaran holiday period, aiming to reduce congestion and ensure smoother travel. This measure, based on a joint decree from key transportation authorities, follows phased local implementations and includes public advisories on vehicle safety, emergency protocols, and travel timing to avoid peak days. The rollout was officiated at Kalikangkung Toll Gate with high-level officials present, alongside incentives like a 30% toll discount and Work From Anywhere policies to ease the flow.

Indonesian National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo reported that approximately 2.38 million vehicles have exited Jakarta through toll roads for the Eid al-Fitr homecoming travel as of 24 March. The peak of the return flow is anticipated today, with the police implementing a national one-way system on key toll sections to manage the surge. Transport Minister Budi Karya Sumadi estimated 285,000 vehicles returning, urging travellers to prioritise safety and utilise government-provided facilities like rest areas, while introducing open-close policies at specific rest areas to prevent congestion.

Market practitioner Hans Kwee forecasts a strengthening of the Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) on Wednesday, 25 March 2026, following the long holiday for Nyepi and Eid al-Fitr, driven by US President Donald Trump's five-day delay in military strikes on Iran's power and energy facilities amid escalating Middle East tensions. This postponement has boosted global markets, including Wall Street and European exchanges, though Iran's counter-threats and new attacks, such as on a Qatari gas facility, could prolong disruptions to oil and gas supplies, impacting Asia's energy-dependent economies. Additionally, expectations of steady or slightly higher US interest rates in 2026 may influence regional market sentiments, with Asian indices showing gains on Tuesday.

The implementation of a national one-way traffic scheme on toll roads during the 2026 Lebaran return flow aims to reduce vehicle congestion from Central Java to Jakarta, as outlined by Jasa Marga CEO Rivan A. Purwantono. Drivers facing emergencies, such as vehicle breakdowns, must pull over to the left shoulder and are prohibited from stopping on the right side or changing lanes abruptly to ensure traffic smoothness. This measure, enforced by police discretion starting 24 March, underscores the importance of adhering to traffic rules in limited-movement conditions to maintain safety and flow.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced that Malaysia and Japan have reaffirmed their commitment to fostering global peace following a telephone conversation with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. The leaders agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation and play a constructive role in ensuring regional and global stability and prosperity, while highlighting their longstanding ties since 1957, now bolstered by a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Discussions also covered advancements in security, defence, economy, science, technology, and innovation, alongside Malaysia's stance on the Middle East situation, calling for an immediate ceasefire, civilian protection, and resolution through dialogue and diplomacy in line with international law.

The return flow of Lebaran holidaymakers has caused a significant surge in activity at the Brebes salted egg souvenir centres along the Pantura route in Central Java, with sales tripling compared to normal days. Traders report selling around 15,000 eggs daily, alongside other local products like salted egg crackers and fried onions, boosting local commerce during this peak period. This phenomenon highlights the economic impact of seasonal travel on regional specialties, turning Brebes into a favoured stopover for Jakarta-bound commuters.

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran's parliamentary speaker and a former air force pilot, mayor of Tehran, and police chief, has emerged as a potential negotiating partner and future leader in US-Iran talks amid escalating tensions. Reports from US media suggest the White House views him as a reliable figure for negotiations following Donald Trump's announcement of serious regime change in Iran, though Ghalibaf denies any direct talks and accuses the US of spreading false information to manipulate markets. This development highlights shifting dynamics in the Iran-US conflict, with Ghalibaf's hardline background positioning him as a key player in potential de-escalation efforts.

The Indonesian Ministry of Health has identified hypertension, headaches, and gastritis as the most prevalent health issues among Eid al-Fitr travellers in 2026, based on examinations of nearly 29,000 individuals. Health checks at key stations like Gambir revealed similar trends, with hypertension dominating, followed by diabetes and influenza, while many drivers were found unfit due to high blood pressure and other conditions. Amid these findings, the ministry reported a rise in measles cases, urging vaccination and precautions during travel to prevent outbreaks.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has defended his extensive overseas travel schedule, comprising over 40 visits to more than 20 countries since taking office, as essential economic diplomacy to secure market access and protect jobs in sectors like textiles and footwear. He highlighted successes such as zero-tariff deals with the EU and Canada, which were achieved through direct head-of-state negotiations, contrasting sharply with the fewer trips by his predecessors. This approach positions Indonesia as a proactive middle power in a fragmented global landscape, strengthening its economic standing and diplomatic influence.

Polda Metro Jaya provided a free vehicle deposit service for residents travelling home for Eid al-Fitr, allowing people like Wahyu from Batu Ceper, Tangerang, to leave their motorbikes securely at local police stations. Upon his return, Wahyu expressed gratitude for the well-maintained condition of his bike and the overall service, which alleviated concerns about theft during the holiday period. This initiative, part of broader security measures including patrols, underscores the police's commitment to public safety and enabling families to enjoy a worry-free Lebaran celebration.

The Indonesian stock market is set to reopen on Wednesday amid a shortened trading week following public holidays, with investors closely monitoring key global and domestic indicators including US consumer sentiment, import-export prices, unemployment claims, and the escalating Iran-Israel-US conflict that threatens global energy supplies. Developments in the ongoing war, including Iran's missile strikes and US President Trump's delayed attacks on Iranian infrastructure, have caused volatility in oil prices and US stock markets, potentially impacting the rupiah, commodities, and IHSG. Domestically, Bank Indonesia's upcoming money supply data will provide insights into liquidity trends, while weakening US consumer confidence signals broader economic pressures from energy costs and geopolitical uncertainty.

Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong will undertake a four-day visit to China, starting 25 March, to deliver a keynote address at the 25th Boao Forum for Asia in Hainan, where he will engage with Chinese leaders and discuss global issues under the theme of shaping a shared future. The trip extends to Hong Kong, marking the first such visit by a Singaporean PM since 2014, involving meetings with Chief Executive John Lee, business leaders, and a tour of the Northern Metropolis project to explore collaboration opportunities, given Hong Kong's status as a top trading partner. This second China trip since taking office underscores Singapore's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties in economics and development.

The Indonesian ceramics industry is facing severe challenges at the start of 2026, primarily due to disrupted gas supplies from PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGN) in West and East Java, leading to production halts and a drop in utilisation rates to 72 percent, below the 80 percent target and last year's 73 percent. Rising energy costs, exacerbated by reduced allocations and surcharge hikes, have increased the energy component in production costs to 33-35 percent from 25-27 percent under the 2021 HGBT policy, while import floods from China and India further erode competitiveness. These pressures highlight the urgent need for stable energy supplies and protective measures to sustain the sector's viability.

Indonesia's aviation sector has gained international recognition, with Soekarno-Hatta International Airport securing the 22nd position in the World’s Top 100 Airports at the 2026 Skytrax World Airport Awards in London. This achievement, alongside Bali's I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport climbing to 67th, stems from comprehensive transformations since 2024 focusing on facilities, processes, and personnel standards. The upgrades have also earned Soekarno-Hatta top honours in immigration services and staff excellence in Asia, with ambitious goals set to reach the global top 10 by 2029.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim held a telephone discussion with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on the escalating Iran-Israel conflict and other regional issues, emphasising the need for sustained diplomatic approaches. The leaders agreed to hold a meeting soon, including Anwar's planned visit to Jakarta to bolster bilateral relations. This exchange underscores the growing coordination between Indonesia and Malaysia on international matters.

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has forecasted that 285,000 vehicles will head towards Jakarta and its surroundings today, marking the peak of the return flow following the Eid holiday exodus. This number exceeds the 270,000 vehicles recorded during the outbound journey on 18 March, prompting measures such as the implementation of open-close schemes at rest areas 62B and 52B to manage congestion. Additionally, the minister encouraged the public to utilise work-from-anywhere options to stagger their travel and avoid peak times.

The Justice and Democracy Forum (JDF) Asia Pacific has strongly condemned Israel's ban on Palestinian Muslims performing Eid prayers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque amid the conflict with Iran, describing it as a grave violation of international law and human rights. The forum emphasises the site's profound historical and spiritual significance to Muslims worldwide and warns that such restrictions threaten religious freedom, escalate tensions, and risk igniting global Muslim anger. JDF calls on the UN Security Council, Muslim-majority nations, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and the Arab League to demand full access to the holy site and uphold the international status quo.

Indonesia's national fuel reserves for both subsidized and non-subsidized types remain adequate as of March 22, with smooth distribution from Pertamina terminals to gas stations, ensuring public needs are met during the Eid travel period. The Energy and Mineral Resources Minister has directed guarantees on availability and quality monitoring, while Pertamina maintains 24-hour readiness and has increased deliveries in regions like West Kalimantan, where queues have normalized in most areas. Efforts include enhanced coordination with local governments and law enforcement to prevent hoarding, underscoring the government's commitment to secure energy supply nationwide.

In the escalating conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, Iranian media reported attacks on gas facilities in Isfahan and Khorramshahr, attributed to US and Israeli forces, shortly after US President Donald Trump suspended his threats to target Iran's power infrastructure. Trump announced ongoing talks with Tehran and a five-day pause in targeting power plants, following a two-day ultimatum to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, though Iranian officials denied any negotiations. The incident highlights shifting US rhetoric amid reports of no disruptions to gas supplies, underscoring the fragile diplomatic efforts in the Middle East tensions.

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) head, Police Commissioner General Suyudi Ario Seto, advocates a balanced strategy to tackle narcotics, emphasising simultaneous reduction of supply and demand, international cooperation, humanitarian values, and evidence-based rehabilitation. During the 69th Session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs in Vienna, he led Indonesia's delegation, delivered a national statement, opened a seminar on narcotics-contaminated vaping products, and inaugurated an exhibition showcasing BNN's child protection initiatives. This active participation underscores Indonesia's commitment to global efforts against evolving drug challenges through regulatory strengthening and comprehensive frameworks.

The ongoing Middle East conflict, particularly the war in Iran, has severely disrupted India's rice exports, stranding around 400,000 tonnes of shipments and causing local prices to drop by 10 per cent, despite a strong harvest that promised a bumper year for the world's largest rice exporter. Exporters face mounting losses and stalled orders, with additional concerns over fertiliser supplies from Gulf nations potentially impacting the upcoming sowing season. The Indian government has assured sufficient stocks and prioritised domestic needs, while experts advocate for sustainable shifts to organic alternatives to reduce reliance on volatile international sources.

Civil servants in South Tangerang (Tangsel) will resume work on 25 March 2026 following the Eid al-Fitr holiday, but initially under a work from anywhere (WFA) policy rather than full office attendance. Mayor Benyamin Davnie stated that full office-based work will be mandatory from 30 March, emphasising that employees must still perform their duties and submit reports to superiors during the WFA period. This phased return aims to ease the transition post-holiday while maintaining productivity in local government operations.

Indonesian National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has urged the public to take advantage of the Work From Anywhere (WFA) policy to alleviate traffic congestion during the peak return flow following Eid al-Fitr 2026. Speaking at the inauguration of the national one-way toll road system in Semarang, Central Java, he encouraged flexible workers to delay their return to Jakarta until 25-27 March for safer and smoother journeys. The government has also implemented traffic engineering measures, rest areas, and vehicle checks to ensure the safe movement of over 2.3 million vehicles back to the capital.

Indonesian National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has advised Eid returnees to prioritise their safety and security during the return journey, recommending the use of government-provided rest facilities to avoid fatigue. He also encouraged the public to utilise work-from-anywhere arrangements to stagger the peak return flow on 25-27 March, thereby easing congestion. Accompanied by key ministers, the Police Chief inaugurated the one-way traffic system from Semarang's Kalikangkung toll gate to Cikampek Utama to facilitate smoother travel towards Jakarta.

Global oil prices rebounded nearly 3% on Tuesday following a more than 10% drop the previous day, driven by heightened market concerns over energy supplies after Iran denied any talks with the United States to resolve the Middle East conflict. This denial contradicted US President Donald Trump's earlier statement about a potential imminent deal, exacerbating uncertainties around the Strait of Hormuz, where conflicts have disrupted a significant portion of global oil and LNG shipments. Analysts predict prices could stabilise between $85-90 per barrel but may surge to $150 if disruptions persist into late April 2026, amid ongoing attacks on energy infrastructure and temporary US sanctions relief on Russian and Iranian oil.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) initially granted house arrest to former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas in a high-profile hajj quota corruption case, allowing him to celebrate Eid al-Fitr with his family, but public backlash and demands for justice prompted its swift revocation just days later. Yaqut, named a suspect in January 2026 following investigations into the 2023-2024 additional hajj quota irregularities, had his pre-trial challenge rejected before being detained, highlighting tensions in Indonesia's anti-corruption enforcement. The case underscores ongoing scrutiny of the KPK's decisions in major corruption probes involving high-ranking officials, with parliamentary calls for transparency amid health concerns for the suspect.

A resident of Ciracas, East Jakarta, named Samsul Tomo, expressed relief during this year's Eid homecoming after entrusting his livelihood microlet to the Ciracas Police Station, eliminating fears of theft. The Metro Jaya Police launched a free vehicle storage service across its units to safeguard motorcycles and cars left behind, alongside intensified patrols to prevent crimes in empty neighbourhoods, under the slogan "Safe Homecoming, Happy Family." This initiative underscores the police's commitment to humane services, enhancing public trust and allowing families to celebrate Eid with peace of mind.

PT Pertamina is offering a Rp 300 per litre discount on non-subsidised fuels Pertamax and Pertamina Dex for both the outbound and return journeys during Lebaran 2026, from 13 to 31 March, accessible via the MyPertamina app. The promotion applies to purchases between 1 and 50 litres per transaction, limited to twice per week per consumer, and replaces other ongoing discounts like I Like Monday and Green Wednesday. This initiative aims to ease fuel availability concerns for holiday travellers, with full terms available on the MyPertamina platform.

The Head of Traffic Directorate of Metro Jaya Police, Kombes Komarudin, has commended PLN UID Jakarta Raya for ensuring a reliable electricity supply during the Eid holiday period, which has significantly supported security operations at crowded points and migration routes. With 2,148 PLN personnel deployed at vital locations and 673 electric vehicle charging stations available in the Jabodetabek area, the public has enjoyed uninterrupted power, enhancing safety and convenience for both residents and travellers. This inter-agency synergy underscores the importance of coordinated public services in delivering a secure and joyful Eid celebration in the capital.

Rudianto Lallo, a member of the DPR's Commission III from the NasDem faction, has criticised an unprecedented incident at the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) involving former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, who was briefly switched from KPK detention to house arrest ahead of Eid al-Fitr 2026 in a corruption case related to Hajj quotas. Lallo praised the KPK's decision to return Yaqut to the detention centre, viewing it as a positive step that aligns with public sentiment and helps preserve the institution's integrity. He urged the KPK to avoid such irregularities in the future to prevent setting a harmful precedent and to maintain public trust in anti-corruption efforts.

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has praised the significant reduction in traffic accidents during the 2026 Eid mudik exodus, attributing it to coordinated efforts by government officials and the police. He advised drivers to rest every three hours on long journeys to combat fatigue, a major cause of incidents, particularly among motorcyclists on arterial roads. The minister also commended Kereta Api Indonesia for providing train carriages to transport motorcycles, reducing road congestion and accident risks, amid a 27% drop in fatalities reported by traffic police.

Daud Joseph, previously the Director of Operations and Safety at PT Transportasi Jakarta (Transjakarta), has been appointed as the President Director of PT Pos Indonesia (Persero) following a shareholders' decision dated 11 March 2026. During his tenure at Transjakarta since April 2023, Joseph contributed significantly to enhancing operational systems, safety standards, and integrated public transportation services in Jakarta. Transjakarta has expressed gratitude for his service and reaffirmed its commitment to providing safe, comfortable, and reliable public transport.

Police in Sukabumi have identified extreme road gradients as the primary cause of a severe 14-hour traffic jam at the Cikidang intersection during the 2026 Lebaran return flow, where vehicles struggled to ascend steep inclines, leading to long queues. Traffic officers swiftly intervened to disperse the congestion until early morning, restoring smooth flow. In contrast, the nearby Ratu intersection experienced more manageable conditions due to its wider road, highlighting infrastructure disparities affecting holiday travel.

The Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has reported a significant rise in hotspots in North Sumatra, increasing from 15 to 33 within a day, as the region enters the dry season. These hotspots, detected by satellites such as Terra, Aqua, SNPP, and NOAA20, are located across several districts including Deli Serdang, Dairi, and Karo, prompting BMKG to urge the public to avoid land burning to prevent fires. Additionally, maritime warnings indicate high waves of 1.15 to 2.5 metres in various North Sumatran waters from 24 to 26 March 2026, with winds from southeast to southwest at 6-25 knots.

Hotel occupancy rates in the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY) during the 2026 Eid holiday period have declined compared to the previous year, averaging between 40% and 65% from 16 to 22 March, down from 60% to 75%. Visitor numbers to Malioboro reached 137,722 over five days, with the highest on 22 March at nearly 57,000, while rail passenger arrivals and departures in the region remain high at around 36,000 each. The peak return flow is expected today but may shift due to government advisories to stagger travel and work-from-home policies extending to 29 March, potentially impacting local tourism recovery.

President Prabowo Subianto is preparing strategic measures to mitigate the economic fallout from the Middle East conflict, focusing on maintaining the state budget deficit below 3% of GDP through fiscal efficiencies and increased coal production. Key initiatives include adjusting coal export taxes to boost state revenues amid rising commodity prices, accelerating the conversion of diesel power plants to solar energy, and promoting a flexible work-from-home scheme to reduce fuel consumption. These adaptive policies aim to ensure economic stability, energy independence, and national resilience without resorting to fuel price hikes, with implementation targeted post-Eid al-Fitr 2026 pending further assessment of global oil prices and conflict developments.