Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 March 2026

Showing 401-450 of 757 articles

2026 Return Flow: National One-Way Scheme Applies from Km 414 to Km 70 Cikampek

Authorities have implemented a national one-way traffic scheme on the toll road from Km 414 at Kalikangkung Toll Gate to Km 70 at Cikampek Utara Toll Gate to alleviate congestion during the 2026 Lebaran return flow, effective from 2:25 PM WIB at police discretion. Motorists are urged to maintain safe distances, adhere to speed limits, stay vigilant on road conditions, ensure sufficient e-toll balance, and follow on-site instructions to prioritise safety. This measure highlights ongoing efforts to manage peak holiday traffic on Indonesia's vital infrastructure corridors.

Iranian Official: US Manipulating Peace to Calm Financial Markets and Oil Prices

Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has dismissed reports of ongoing negotiations with the United States as 'fake news' aimed at manipulating financial and oil markets to alleviate pressures on the US and Israel. He emphasised Iran's resolve to pursue full retribution against aggressors, standing firmly with the nation's leadership until the war's objectives are met. This comes after US President Donald Trump announced a five-day delay in attacks on Iran's energy and power infrastructure, citing productive recent dialogues with Tehran.

This is the Ideal Savings Amount at Age 50 According to Financial Experts

Financial experts from Fidelity recommend that individuals should have savings equivalent to six times their annual income by age 50 to ensure a comfortable retirement around age 67. For instance, someone earning Rp100 million annually should aim for Rp600 million in savings, though this target varies based on retirement age, expenses, and living costs. If behind schedule, planners advise reducing retirement expectations, paying off debts, cutting expenses, relocating to cheaper areas, or continuing part-time work post-retirement.

Lebaran Return Traffic Increases, 225,293 Vehicles Enter Jakarta

The return traffic for Idul Fitri 2026 has seen a significant surge, with 225,293 vehicles entering Jakarta, marking a 73.71% increase from normal levels, while outbound traffic from the city rose by 28.55% to 167,939 units. In response, police will implement a national one-way system starting at 2:00 PM WIB from KM 414 Kalikangkung to KM 70 to alleviate congestion. Authorities report stable security conditions but note traffic incidents resulting in 18 deaths and substantial injuries, urging the public to plan journeys carefully, utilise Work From Anywhere policies, and take advantage of toll discounts for safer travel.

Indonesia Confident in Responding to US Allegations on Forced Labour

The Indonesian government is optimistic about countering US allegations under Section 301 investigation regarding excess production capacity and forced labour in 16 economic zones, including Indonesia, asserting that such issues do not occur domestically and are supported by data. This matter has already been addressed in the recently agreed Reciprocal Trade Agreement, with preparations underway for public hearings and government-to-government consultations before April 2026. Industry leaders emphasise the need for precise clarification on affected sectors, noting that Indonesia's exports to the US in areas like steel and electronics are relatively minor, while the agreement ensures zero-tariff access for key products such as palm oil and coffee remains intact.

50% of DKI Provincial Government Civil Servants to Work from Anywhere After Eid, Still Required to Do Online Attendance

The Jakarta Provincial Government has implemented a policy allowing up to 50% of its civil servants to work from anywhere following the Eid al-Fitr holiday, in line with a circular from the Ministry of State Apparatus Utilization and Bureaucratic Reform. This flexibility, applicable from 25 to 27 March 2026, requires remote workers to maintain discipline through twice-daily online attendance and adhere to specified working hours, ensuring public services remain uninterrupted. The measure aims to manage civil servant mobility during extended holidays while upholding service quality and performance targets.

Fuel Efficiency Measures: Ministry of Defence Ensures TNI's Strategic Operations Remain Unaffected

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence has assured that fuel efficiency measures within the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) will not disrupt strategic operations or national defence readiness. These measures include regulating official vehicle usage, main weapon system operations, and potentially adjusting workdays to four per week for certain functions, all prioritised to maintain effectiveness. The initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's directives to proactively safeguard economic stability and national resilience without compromising public services or state preparedness.

Analyst: Post-Lebaran is the Moment to Evaluate Stock Investment Strategies to Avoid Losses

Following the Lebaran holidays, investors are urged to evaluate their stock investment strategies amid high market volatility driven by global and domestic pressures, shifting from aggressive to more cautious approaches focused on strong fundamentals and risk management. Experts highlight the growing appeal of gold as a safe-haven asset, with Indonesian gold mining stocks gaining international attention through inclusion in global indices, potentially attracting foreign inflows. This period offers a critical opportunity to rebalance portfolios, emphasizing gradual accumulation and maintaining liquidity to navigate ongoing uncertainties.

Video: Boosting Cocoa Bean Production, 240,000 Hectares of Plantations to be Revitalised

Indonesia's cocoa industry is optimistic about export prospects for processed cocoa products to markets like the US and EU following recent trade agreements. To capitalise on this, the government plans to revitalise 240,000 hectares of cocoa plantations by 2027, aiming to increase upstream production amid a trend of declining output. This strategy also involves enhancing processing facilities to strengthen Indonesia's position in the global cocoa market.

Iran War Shakes Asia's Energy Sector, Countries Return to Coal

The ongoing war in Iran has disrupted global energy supplies through the Strait of Hormuz, prompting Asian nations to revert to coal to mitigate shortages in oil and LNG. Countries like India, South Korea, China, and Indonesia are ramping up domestic coal production and power plant operations as a short-term measure to ensure energy security, despite warnings from experts about increased pollution, delayed renewable transitions, and higher greenhouse gas emissions. As the world's largest coal exporter, Indonesia's prioritisation of domestic supply may tighten regional markets and drive up global prices.

H+4 Lebaran 2026: Bird's Eye Chilli Price in Bangka Reaches Rp130,000 per Kg

On the fourth day after Eid al-Fitr 2026, the price of red bird's eye chillies in Bangka's Kite Sungailiat market has surged to Rp130,000 per kilogram, up from Rp100,000 just days earlier and Rp70,000 pre-holiday. Local traders attribute the spike to limited stocks, delayed supplies due to distributors' Lebaran breaks, and fewer vendors operating amid the festive atmosphere. This escalation underscores the vulnerability of essential commodity prices to holiday disruptions in Indonesia's agricultural supply chain, impacting household budgets during the post-Eid period.

ASEAN Car Safety Standards Rise, ADAS Factor

The ASEAN NCAP programme is elevating vehicle safety standards in Southeast Asia by placing greater emphasis on active safety features, such as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), alongside traditional passive protections. Technologies like Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) and Lane Keeping Assist are now critical in preventing accidents and reducing injury rates, influencing how manufacturers design vehicles to achieve top ratings. This shift aims to create more adaptive cars that respond to real-time traffic dynamics, potentially lowering accident statistics across the region.

Stock Exchange Reopens Tomorrow: Can the JCI End the Curse?

The Indonesian Stock Exchange will reopen on Wednesday after the long Eid al-Fitr holiday, with the Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) facing balanced probabilities of gains or losses based on historical data from 2016 to 2025, which shows five instances each of strengthening and weakening. External factors, including the ongoing Iran war, rising energy prices, and a more hawkish stance from the US Federal Reserve—which maintained rates at 3.50-3.75% and revised down rate cut expectations—pose significant challenges that could lead to market volatility. This reopening tests whether the JCI can break its recent two-year trend of sharp declines post-holiday, highlighting the influence of global macroeconomic sentiments over seasonal factors.

Taxpayers Urged to Avoid Filing SPT Near Deadline as Coretax System May Become Congested

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) is urging taxpayers to file their Annual Income Tax Returns (SPT Tahunan PPh 21) via the Coretax system well before the deadlines of 31 March 2026 for individuals and 30 April 2026 for entities, to avoid system congestion and potential delays. Officials warn that last-minute filings could lead to slow processing despite high bandwidth, and late submissions incur penalties under the General Provisions and Tax Procedures Law (UU KUP) Article 7(1). This advisory aims to ensure smooth compliance during the peak reporting period, benefiting taxpayers by preventing unnecessary hurdles.

MP: KPK Must Explain Details on Yaqut's Detention Controversy

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III, Abdullah, has urged the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to provide a detailed explanation regarding the controversial transfer of former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas from detention facility to house arrest and back, amid public scrutiny. He emphasised the need for transparency on the supervision during house arrest to avoid perceptions of "no viral, no justice" and ensure accountability in the ongoing corruption case involving Hajj quota irregularities. The KPK has cited an upcoming questioning schedule as the reason for returning Yaqut to the detention centre, following a family request that initially granted house arrest on 19 March 2026.

Peak Return Flow of Eid Travellers and Tourists via Rest Area KM 125 of Purbaleunyi Toll Road Predicted for This Afternoon

Police in Cimahi, West Java, anticipate the peak of the return flow of Eid al-Fitr holidaymakers and tourists passing through the Purbaleunyi Toll Road at KM 125 to occur on Tuesday afternoon, with traffic currently remaining normal. Authorities have prepared contingency measures, including selective road closures and one-way systems in nearby tourist areas like Lembang, to manage potential congestion and ensure smooth movement towards Jabodetabek. This preparation highlights the critical role of infrastructure management in handling post-holiday traffic surges, supporting regional economic recovery and mobility.

Police Chief urges officers to provide best service during Eid return flow period

Indonesian National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has directed his officers to deliver optimal services to the public during the peak Eid al-Fitr return flow in 2026, anticipated today amid higher-than-expected numbers of travellers. He highlighted the need for enhanced security measures, traffic management, and sea crossings, particularly in tourist areas like Bali and Yogyakarta, while addressing potential bad weather in eastern regions and maintaining low accident rates. This directive underscores the police's role in ensuring safe and efficient travel for millions, supporting national mobility policies during major holidays.

Today Marks the First Peak of the Return Flow at Merak and Bakauheni Ports

The first peak of the Lebaran 2026 return flow is expected at Merak Port in Banten and Bakauheni Port in Lampung from 24 to 25 March, with traffic already increasing since 22 March. To manage congestion on the Sumatra-Java crossing, the government has imposed vehicle restrictions, redirecting certain heavy vehicles to alternative ports and buffer zones, while mandating online ticket purchases via Ferizy. ASDP is optimising operations with dynamic loading systems, real-time controls, and a stimulus discount programme that has already benefited over 1.06 million users, underscoring the critical role of these ferry services in national mobility and economic flow during peak holiday periods.

Lebaran 2026 Return Flow: Tegal Station Serves Over 10,000 Passengers

During the 2026 Lebaran return flow, Tegal Station in Central Java handled a significant volume of passengers, with 11,463 on 23 March (H+1) and 10,442 on 24 March (H+2), reflecting high post-holiday mobility. Popular trains such as Tegal Bahari, Airlangga, Joglosemarkerto, and Tawang Jaya transported passengers mainly to Jakarta, Surabaya, and Purwokerto, underscoring the railway's crucial role in managing peak travel demands. PT KAI Daop 4 Semarang has committed to optimal operations for safe and comfortable journeys, advising early arrivals and vigilance over belongings amid the surge.

Elon Musk Kicked Out of Africa Again, Starlink Officially Banned from Operating

Namibia has officially rejected Starlink's application for an operating licence, marking the second setback for Elon Musk's satellite internet service in southern Africa after a similar denial in South Africa. The decision by Namibia's Communications Regulatory Authority stems from the local subsidiary's lack of ownership by Namibian citizens, highlighting regional regulatory hurdles on foreign investment and local equity requirements. This rejection underscores ongoing tensions between global tech expansion and policies aimed at addressing historical inequalities, including Musk's vocal criticism of South Africa's Black Economic Empowerment laws as racist.

Facing Peak Return Traffic, Jasa Marga Implements Open-Closed System for Rest Areas

Jasa Marga is implementing an open-closed system at Rest Area KM 62B on the Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road towards Jakarta and closing Rest Area KM 52B to manage the anticipated surge in return traffic from the 2026 Lebaran holidays, in coordination with police authorities. Alternative rest areas such as KM 42B and KM 19B are recommended for Jakarta-bound travellers, with specific options provided for those coming from Cipularang and Cipali toll roads. The company urges motorists to plan their journeys carefully, avoid peak times on 24, 28, and 29 March 2026, and stay updated via official channels to ensure smooth traffic flow.

Smaller Than an Airport: Is Pakualaman Jogja Indonesia's Smallest Sub-District?

Kemantren Pakualaman, located in the heart of Yogyakarta, spans just 0.63 square kilometres, making it potentially the smallest sub-district in Indonesia and housing around 10,634 residents. Despite its diminutive size—about one-tenth that of Yogyakarta International Airport—it holds special status due to the presence of the Pakualaman Palace, residence of KGPAA Paku Alam X, who serves as Deputy Governor of the Special Region of Yogyakarta. The area thrives with hotels, vital facilities like a prison and market, and a diverse economy centred on entrepreneurship and private employment, highlighting urban density and cultural significance in Indonesia's administrative landscape.

Indonesia Weighs Hybrid Schooling, Weekly WFH to Cut Energy Use

Indonesia is set to implement a comprehensive energy-saving strategy from April 2026, including hybrid schooling that combines online and in-person learning to reduce student mobility and fuel consumption, as directed by President Prabowo Subianto amid rising global oil prices. The government is also considering a weekly work-from-home policy to cut national fuel use by up to 20%, while addressing challenges like internet access and maintaining education quality and social programs. This cross-ministerial effort draws lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic to balance energy efficiency with minimal societal disruption.

Taiwan Protests 'Chinese Province' Label and to Skip WTO Meeting in Cameroon

Taiwan has decided to boycott the World Trade Organization's high-level meeting in Cameroon for the first time, protesting against the host country's use of "Taiwan, Province of China" in visa documents issued to its delegation. This incident highlights ongoing Chinese efforts to isolate Taiwan internationally by blocking its participation in global forums and opposing its official designations. Taiwan reaffirms its status as a separate customs territory within the WTO, underscoring the tensions in international trade diplomacy.

Becoming an Eid Holiday Destination, Visits to IKN Reach 62,000 People

During the 2026 Eid al-Fitr holiday, the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) in East Kalimantan attracted a record 62,500 visitors on the second day after Idul Fitri, highlighting its growing appeal as a tourism hotspot amid ongoing development. Officials highlighted accessible public spaces such as the Ceremonial Plaza, PSSI area, and State Mosque, while enforcing rules like proper attire for the State Palace and promoting reusable bags to maintain cleanliness and sustainability. With visitor numbers expected to rise through the holiday period, this surge underscores IKN's progress as Indonesia's new administrative capital and its integration of environmental practices.

One-Way from KM 425 to 414 on the Trans-Java Toll Road Halted

PT Jasamarga Transjawa Tol has discontinued the one-way traffic system on the Trans-Java toll road from Kilometre 425 in the Semarang section to Kilometre 414 at Kalikangkung toll gate, following a two-hour and 35-minute implementation to alleviate congestion during the Eid al-Fitr return traffic to Jakarta. The decision, coordinated with the police, aims to smooth travel for holidaymakers, with Jasamarga urging drivers to obey traffic signs, maintain vehicle conditions, and utilise the Travoy app for real-time road updates. This measure highlights efforts to manage peak holiday traffic on Indonesia's vital infrastructure, potentially reducing travel times and enhancing safety.

The Precision of Law Enforcers in Closing Loopholes for Corruption Diversification

Recent sting operations by Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) have exposed bribery schemes in tax examinations and import processes within the Ministry of Finance, highlighting systemic vulnerabilities in fiscal governance despite ongoing reforms. These cases reveal a diversification of corruption methods, involving cryptocurrencies, luxury assets, and safe houses, indicative of grand corruption that inflicts massive losses on the state and erodes public trust. The incidents underscore the need for a comprehensive approach beyond mere salary increases, focusing on incentives, integrity, and adaptive law enforcement to combat state capture and organized graft.

Peak of 2026 Lebaran Return Flow Expected Today at Tenau Port, Kupang

The peak of the 2026 Lebaran return flow is anticipated today at Tenau Port in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, driven by the near-simultaneous arrival of two passenger ships carrying over 2,900 passengers. PT Pelni Kupang Branch Head Teguh Hari Setiadi highlighted the arrivals of KM Sirimau and KM Tidar, which will also depart with more than 1,800 passengers to various destinations. Authorities urge passengers to adhere to schedules and maintain order amid the high mobility during this period, underscoring the importance of efficient transport infrastructure for national holidays.

National One-Way System for Return Traffic Officially Implemented from Kalikangkung Toll Gate

The Indonesian government has officially launched a national one-way traffic system on toll roads starting from the Kalikangkung Toll Gate at kilometre 414, aimed at managing the peak Eid al-Fitr return traffic expected on 24 March. The initiative, flagged off by high-ranking officials including the National Police Chief, Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno, and Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi, will extend to kilometre 70 of the Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road to alleviate congestion and ensure safety for motorists. Authorities urge the public to avoid returning on 24 March and instead utilise work-from-anywhere policies on 26-28 March to stagger travel and prevent vehicle pile-ups.

MRT Jakarta Fare Only Rp 243 Today

PT MRT Jakarta is implementing a special fare of Rp 243 for passengers on 24 March 2026 to commemorate MRT Day 2026, aiming to appreciate users and promote safe, comfortable, and integrated public transportation in the city. The promotional rate applies only once per user via the MyMRTJ app with payments through designated partners like Kredivo, blu by BCA Digital, and GoPay. This event marks the seventh anniversary of MRT Jakarta's operations since 2019, featuring a series of programmes culminating in a public festival on 24-25 April 2026 under the campaign "Melaju Menyatukan Masa Depan Kota".

Gold Prices at Pegadaian Today Fall: Antam, UBS, Galeri 24 Weaken

Gold bar prices sold at Pegadaian experienced a uniform decline on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, affecting all precious metal products including Galeri 24, Antam, UBS, and Antam Retro across various sizes from 0.5 grams to 1,000 grams. For instance, 1-gram Galeri 24 gold fell to Rp 2,849,000 from Rp 2,920,000, while Antam dropped to Rp 2,943,000 from Rp 2,995,000. This correction reflects broader market trends in precious metals, impacting investors and buyers in Indonesia's gold market.

Iran Rejects Trump's Remarks: No Direct Discussions with the US

Iran has firmly denied US President Donald Trump's claims of productive talks to end the ongoing conflict, stating that while messages from several friendly nations regarding US negotiation requests have been received, no direct discussions between the two countries are taking place. Iranian officials, including Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, dismissed the assertions as fake news aimed at manipulating financial and oil markets amid the escalating tensions involving the US, Israel, and Iran. Meanwhile, countries like Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey are reportedly pushing for de-escalation through diplomatic channels, with global attention refocusing on the vital Strait of Hormuz for energy distribution.

Online Motorbike Taxi Association Requests Fuel Subsidy Redirected to Electric Motorcycles

The Association of Online Motorbike Taxi Drivers (Garda Indonesia) has urged the government to redirect part of the fuel subsidy to electric motorcycles, aiming to enhance efficiency amid rising global oil prices triggered by the Middle East conflict. This proposal includes comprehensive studies, affordable financing for exchanges from petrol motorcycles, and low-interest credit schemes to support the estimated 7 million online drivers who are vital to UMKM supply chains and passenger transport. The recommendation aligns with the government's efficiency measures, such as implementing one day of work-from-home per week for civil servants and encouraging private sectors, to mitigate fuel consumption.

208,000 Vehicles Crowd Kualanamu Toll Road up to H+1 of Eid

PT Jasa Marga recorded a 13.9% surge in traffic volume on the Medan-Kualanamu-Tebing Tinggi toll road, with 208,430 vehicles passing through during the Eid al-Fitr 1447H/2026 period from 11 to 22 March 2026, compared to normal levels. This increase highlights the significant congestion around Kualanamu International Airport, with 64,206 vehicles entering from the airport gate and 67,593 heading towards it, both showing double-digit growth. To manage the return flow, a 30% toll discount will be applied on 26-27 March 2026, and authorities urge travellers to plan wisely, ensure vehicle readiness, and follow safety guidelines.

Transport Agency Predicts Peak Return Traffic in Yogyakarta to Occur Today

The Yogyakarta Transport Agency (Dishub DIY) anticipates the peak of Lebaran 2026 return traffic in the region today, Tuesday, as joint holidays end for many institutions, with a second wave expected on Sunday. This year's patterns are influenced by work-from-anywhere policies and additional private sector leave, leading to a more dispersed flow rather than a single peak, as evidenced by traffic monitoring showing higher outbound vehicles at key entry points. Authorities urge road users to obey traffic signs and follow on-site directions, while police enhance security on main routes and tourist areas to ensure smooth and safe travel.

Led by the National Police Chief, National One-Way Traffic for Lebaran Return Flow Officially Opened!

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo officially inaugurated the national one-way traffic system in Semarang to alleviate congestion during the peak of the first wave of Lebaran 2026 return travel. The event, attended by key government officials including Coordinating Minister Pratikno and Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi, featured the distribution of aid packages to commuters and emphasised road safety measures. This initiative ensures safer and smoother journeys for millions returning home, aligning with the 2026 mudik theme of 'Safe Mudik, Happy Family'.

The Essence of Moral Signalling in Fiscal Discipline for State Officials

Indonesia's fiscal challenges have evolved into a moral test for state officials, exemplified by President Prabowo's directive in March 2026 to explore salary cuts for ministers and parliament members as part of extreme austerity measures to address the budget deficit amid Middle East conflicts. This symbolic fiscal discipline, while modest in financial impact, serves as a powerful moral signal of burden-sharing, enhancing public trust and potentially boosting tax revenues by demonstrating elite commitment to equitable crisis management. With the 2025 deficit nearing 2.9% of GDP and rising energy subsidies straining finances, such credibility-signalling policies are crucial for maintaining fiscal stability and public confidence in a tightening global environment.

Rebuked by Prabowo Over Rp 8.5 Billion Official Vehicle, East Kalimantan Governor Apologises

East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas’ud has apologised following a public rebuke from President Prabowo Subianto regarding the procurement of an Rp 8.5 billion Range Rover official vehicle, which contradicted efforts to enforce budget efficiency. The governor confirmed that the vehicle was returned to the regional treasury on 2 March 2026, with administration finalised by 11 March, and expressed appreciation for the president's reminder to all regional heads on the importance of fiscal prudence. He pledged to redirect the funds towards priority areas such as basic public services in education, health, infrastructure, and social activities, while inviting public oversight to ensure accountable governance.

Reopening of the Strait of Hormuz in the Spotlight Amid Conflict

The Strait of Hormuz has regained global attention due to plans for its reopening, serving as a critical chokepoint for worldwide energy distribution where approximately 20% of global oil supplies pass through. Its closure, resulting from conflicts involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, has disrupted global supply chains, detained hundreds of ships, and raised fears of surging oil prices and energy instability. US President Donald Trump announced that the strait will soon reopen under joint management with Iran, viewed as a de-escalation step to stabilise the international energy market despite ongoing security concerns in the region.

Lebaran Return Flow: Solo Balapan Station Crowded with Passengers

The peak of the Lebaran return flow on 24 March 2026 saw significant congestion at Solo Balapan Station in Central Java, as hundreds of mudik travellers rushed to board trains back to Jakarta and other western destinations ahead of the work resumption on 25 March. PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Daop 6 Yogyakarta reported 71,800 long-distance rail passengers arriving and departing on the day, with overall ticket occupancy reaching 91% during the Lebaran transport period, bolstered by additional trains and government encouragements to stagger travel amid work-from-anywhere policies. This surge underscores the critical role of rail infrastructure in managing Indonesia's annual mass migration, highlighting both operational challenges and the success of preemptive measures in accommodating high demand.

Peak Return Traffic at Bekasi Terminal Expected to Occur Twice, Note the Dates

The Bekasi City Transportation Agency predicts two waves of peak return traffic following the 2026 Eid al-Fitr holiday at Bekasi Terminal, with the first on 24-25 March and the second from 27-29 March, coinciding with the end of school holidays and the implementation of work-from-anywhere policies. Passenger numbers have risen by 7% from the previous day, dominated by inter-city buses, with 658 arrivals and 1,225 departures recorded on 23 March. This surge underscores the challenges in managing transportation infrastructure during post-holiday periods, as authorities deploy personnel to ensure orderly operations amid increasing crowds.

Lebaran 2026 Return Traffic: Commuters Urged to Use Tol Japek II Selatan

Indonesian police anticipate a surge in vehicle traffic starting 24 March 2026 due to the Lebaran holiday return, with peak volumes potentially exceeding 285,000 vehicles, surpassing the outbound peak. Authorities recommend using alternative routes like the toll-free Tol Jakarta-Cikampek II Selatan to alleviate congestion on main roads, supported by traffic engineering such as one-way systems on the Trans Java Toll Road and real-time monitoring technologies. This coordinated effort involving the police, Ministry of Transportation, and toll operators aims to ensure smoother travel during the two-phase return flow peaking on 24 March and 28-29 March.

PLN: National Peak Electricity Load Reaches 34.77 GW During Eid

PT PLN (Persero) reported that the national peak electricity load during the Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah celebrations reached 34.77 gigawatts (GW), remaining within safe limits supported by a national supply capacity of 51.37 GW. The company deployed all personnel to ensure reliable power supply, particularly during Eid prayers, and secured electricity for 4,429 priority locations including places of worship, transportation hubs, and hospitals, with no disruptions observed. This preparedness highlights PLN's efforts to maintain optimal operations amid heightened consumption during the festive period, as exemplified by stable reserves in regions like West Nusa Tenggara.

Energy crisis: South Korea tightens vehicle rotation on weekdays

In response to potential oil supply disruptions from Middle East tensions, the South Korean government is tightening vehicle rotation restrictions in the public sector to conserve energy. The policy, effective immediately, divides vehicles into groups based on licence plate numbers and excludes electric and hydrogen vehicles, while encouraging private sector participation and offering incentives for energy savings among major companies. Additional measures include adjusting work hours, restarting nuclear reactors, and easing coal power restrictions to mitigate reliance on affected liquefied natural gas supplies.

Police Chief States Peak Return Traffic Begins Today Until 27 March

Indonesian National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has announced that the peak of the Lebaran return traffic is expected from 24 to 27 March 2026, urging all units to ensure security and smooth flow. Despite an increase in domestic tourists in Bali and other areas during the low season, traffic accident rates have decreased compared to the previous year, though evaluations are needed for future improvements. Preparations include monitoring key ports like Ketapang and readiness for extreme weather conditions in eastern Indonesia.

Minister of Communication and Digital: Bali's Internet Speed Exceeds National Average During Long Holiday

Indonesia's Minister of Communication and Digital, Meutya Hafid, reported that Bali's average internet download speed reached 105 Mbps during the Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr long holiday, surpassing the national average of 95 Mbps, thanks to the efforts of mobile operators. While overall connectivity remained stable, minor disruptions occurred in areas like Gilimanuk Port and during cultural events before Nyepi, which were swiftly addressed through coordination. The monitoring, part of the 500 nationwide Posko Bersama Rafi 2026 posts, also ensured flight frequency safety at I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport, highlighting the government's commitment to seamless travel and digital infrastructure during peak periods.

2026 Update on Semarang-Jakarta Toll Rates: Here Are the Details

The Indonesian toll authority has updated the toll rates for the Semarang to Jakarta route on the Trans-Java Toll Road, effective for 2026, with the total cost for private vehicles reaching approximately Rp 467,500. This cumulative fee covers multiple segments including Batang-Semarang, Pemalang-Batang, and Jakarta-Cikampek, advising travellers to ensure sufficient electronic money balances to avoid delays during peak holiday periods like post-Eid return traffic. The update highlights the ongoing management of Indonesia's vital infrastructure to support efficient inter-city travel amid increasing vehicular volumes.

Food Commodity Prices and Availability Maintained in Cimahi-KBB During Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, Police Reveal Strategy

In Cimahi and West Bandung Regency, food commodity prices remained stable throughout Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah, thanks to collaborative efforts among stakeholders and ongoing monitoring by local authorities. Key items such as beef, chicken, red chillies, and shallots showed minimal price fluctuations, with beef ranging from Rp140,000 to Rp145,000 per kilogram and chicken from Rp40,000 to Rp45,000. The Cimahi Police contributed by distributing over 250 tons of rice and other essentials at subsidised prices to ease public expenditure during the holy month.

This Country Becomes a Victim of the Iran War: Energy Emergency - Seeks Help from Indonesia

The Philippines has declared an energy emergency in response to the armed conflict in the Middle East, which has disrupted global gas supplies and driven up energy prices, prompting the government to boost coal-fired power plant production to curb rising electricity costs. As a major archipelago nation with high energy expenses, the Philippines plans to maximise local coal use and increase imports from its primary supplier, Indonesia, which has assured unrestricted supply volumes amid the crisis. This temporary shift to fossil fuels is crucial for economic stability, especially as domestic gas reserves like Malampaya dwindle, highlighting Indonesia's pivotal role in regional energy security.

MAKI Sends Satirical Award to KPK Over Changing Yaqut's Status to House Arrest

Boyamin Saiman of the Indonesian Anti-Corruption Society (MAKI) sent satirical banners to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) as a "record-breaking award" for switching former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas to house arrest, a move that sparked public outrage and accusations of discrimination. Despite Yaqut being returned to detention today, Boyamin emphasised the banners as a reminder to KPK to avoid such errors that undermine anti-corruption efforts. The temporary house arrest, granted on family request without detailed reasons, highlighted inconsistencies in treatment compared to other detainees in similar cases.