Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 2 March 2026

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Police Deploy 2,746 Posts During 2026 Ketupat Operation

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has mobilised 2,746 posts across the country from 13-25 March 2026 to manage the Eid al-Fitr exodus and return traffic during the Ketupat Operation. The deployment comprises security posts, service facilities, and integrated posts to protect over 185,600 installations including mosques, shopping centres, ports, and airports, with traffic management measures implemented on toll roads.

From Tazakka, Goodness Flows, Strengthening Indonesia in Solidarity

Pondok Modern Tazakka, a pesantren in Batang, Central Java, hosted a large-scale Ramadhan gathering on 1 March attracting 5,000 attendees including government officials, religious leaders, and ordinary citizens to break fast together and participate in Tarawih prayers. The event distributed 1,750 food aid packages to underprivileged groups and provided free health checks and blood donations, embodying Islamic philanthropy as practical action.

Pertamax Petrol Price Rises; Calculate Full Tank Costs for LSUV Models Including Toyota Rush

Pertamina has increased the price of Pertamax 92 RON fuel by IDR 550 per litre to IDR 12,350 from March 2026, raising full-tank costs significantly for LSUV owners. A full tank for models like Toyota Rush and Daihatsu Terios with 45-litre capacity now costs IDR 555,750 instead of IDR 531,000, whilst the Hyundai Stargazer with a 40-litre tank requires IDR 494,000 rather than IDR 472,000. The seemingly modest per-litre increase translates to substantial additional costs for regular vehicle users.

Bloodied Dawn in Bekasi: Father Dead, Mother Critical, Daughter Wakes Alone

A 65-year-old man identified as EU was found dead and his 60-year-old wife PW left in critical condition during dawn prayers in a residential complex in Bekasi on 2 March 2026. Their daughter DNA discovered the incident when she woke for sahur (pre-dawn meal) and found both parents severely injured with blunt force trauma to the back of their heads. The wife was transported to hospital for intensive care whilst the husband was pronounced dead at the scene.

Revitalisation of Rasuna Said Corridor Begins, Fast-Lane Barriers Also Demolished

Following the completion of demolition of 109 monorail pillars along Jalan HR Rasuna Said in South Jakarta, the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has commenced reorganisation and revitalisation of the corridor, targeted for completion by 22 June 2026 to coincide with Jakarta's 499th anniversary.

PT Sang Hyang Seri and PT Pupuk Indonesia Niaga Establish Rice Seed Distribution Partnership

PT Sang Hyang Seri (SHS), a member of Holding Pangan ID FOOD, and PT Pupuk Indonesia Niaga have formalised a strategic partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding to distribute quality rice seeds nationwide. The collaboration leverages SHS's expertise in seed production and PI Niaga's distribution network to enhance agricultural productivity and food sovereignty by ensuring superior seeds reach farmers reliably and efficiently.

Domestic Worker Assault Case in Sunter Settled Out of Court

A case involving a domestic worker (ART) allegedly assaulted by her employer in Sunter, Tanjung Priok, North Jakarta, has been amicably resolved between the victim and accused. The incident, which occurred in February 2023 stemming from a miscommunication during Lunar New Year celebrations, resulted in the victim being struck and kicked; however, the victim has chosen not to pursue formal charges as she continues to work at the employer's residence.

Work Visit to Singkawang: AHY Attends Cap Go Meh Festival and Inspects Infrastructure

Infrastructure Coordinating Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono visited West Kalimantan on 2-3 March 2026, attending the Cap Go Meh festival in Singkawang whilst inspecting several strategic infrastructure projects including airport access roads and public school facilities. The visit underscores the central government's commitment to infrastructure development, social harmony, and cultural diversity in the region.

Environment Minister: Bekasi Raya Waste-to-Energy Project Groundbreaking Set for March 2026

Indonesia's Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq announced that the waste-to-energy (PSEL) facility project for Bekasi Raya, covering Bekasi City and Bekasi Regency, will begin with a groundbreaking ceremony in March 2026.

Ahok Exposes Origins of Pertamina LNG Losses in Court Proceedings

Former Pertamina Chief Commissioner Basuki Tjahaja Purnama (Ahok) testified in corruption court proceedings that LNG losses were first detected during a January 2020 Board meeting, revealing that cargo had been purchased without confirmed buyers—a breach of standard LNG business practice.

National Police Chief, Army, Navy and Air Force Commanders Serve as Flag Bearers at Try Sutrisno's Funeral

President Prabowo Subianto led the funeral procession of former Vice President Try Sutrisno on Monday, 2 March 2026, at the Heroes' Cemetery in Jakarta. The National Police Chief, Army Chief of Staff, Navy Commander and Air Force Commander held the Indonesian flag during the lowering of Sutrisno's coffin, with multiple former national leaders attending the ceremony.

Higher Education Minister Promotes Maggot Farming Technology to Address Indonesia's Waste Crisis

Indonesia's Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto is promoting bioconversion technology using maggot farming to manage the country's organic waste crisis, with universities tasked to review and certify waste management systems in residential complexes and private sectors. Maggot farming has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing waste residue to 3 percent in tourism and residential sectors.

Digital Skills Become Weapon: UBSI Cikampek Campus Encourages Students to Build Portfolios Early

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) Cikampek campus is emphasising the importance of students developing digital skills and building professional portfolios from the outset of their studies to meet industry demands. The campus leadership advocates that students move beyond traditional classroom attendance to acquire practical competencies in graphic design, digital marketing, coding, and data analytics, supported by online learning platforms and certifications.

Indef: Food self-sufficiency must be strengthened amid Indonesia-US trade agreement

An economist from the Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (Indef) has urged strengthening Indonesia's food self-sufficiency and import management amid the new Indonesia-US Reciprocal Trade Agreement valued at USD 4.5 billion, which includes agricultural imports.

Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education Strengthens Dapodik Validation Process to Address Data Discrepancies

Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) is enhancing verification and validation procedures for the Basic Education Data System (Dapodik) to improve data accuracy and alignment with ground conditions.

Israel-US Strike Iran; 15 Flights at Ngurah Rai Airport Cancelled Affecting 3,197 Passengers

An escalation of the Iran-Israel conflict and subsequent closure of airspace in the Middle East has disrupted international flight operations at Bali's Ngurah Rai Airport, resulting in the cancellation of 15 international flights (8 departures and 7 arrivals) as of 2 March 2026. Flights operated by Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways on routes to and from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha have been cancelled, affecting a total of 3,197 passengers.

Profile of SejutaCita Future Leaders as Founder Faces Harassment Allegations

SejutaCita Future Leaders (SFL), a prominent international leadership programme targeting young people aged 13-35, has come under public scrutiny following allegations of harassment made by programme participants against its founder (initials AS).

Evidence Not Stamped: Constitutional Court Rejects Internet Quota Expiry Lawsuit

Indonesia's Constitutional Court rejected a petition by Rachmad Rofik challenging the validity of expired internet quotas under the Job Creation Law, ruling the case inadmissible because the petitioner failed to properly stamp the evidence documents. The court determined that the evidence did not meet formal procedural requirements as mandated by the Ministry of Finance Regulation 7/2025, which requires all submitted evidence to be properly stamped.

Peak Homecoming Traffic Predicted Twice, on 14th and 18th March

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has announced that peak homecoming traffic during Eid 2026 is predicted to occur in two periods in mid-March, specifically around 14-15 March and 18-19 March. The predictions are based on surveys conducted by the Ministry of Transportation and comparisons with 2025 data. Operation Ketupat 2026, involving 161,000 personnel from TNI-Polri and other agencies, will run from 13-25 March to ensure safe travel during the holiday period.

Indonesia's offer to mediate US-Iran conflict seen as 'bold' but 'unrealistic'

President Prabowo Subianto has offered to mediate between the United States and Iran following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, declaring Indonesia's readiness to facilitate dialogue and travel to Tehran if both sides agree.

Prabowo Leads Funeral Ceremony for Try Sutrisno, Presents National Flag to Family

President Prabowo Subianto presided over the state funeral of Try Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth Vice President, at the Kalibata National Heroes Cemetery on 2 March 2026, presenting the national flag and presidential honours to his family. The ceremony was attended by numerous senior officials including former Presidents SBY and Vice Presidents Jusuf Kalla and Boediono, as well as military and police leadership.

Mexico calls for world peace amid Middle East escalation

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum reiterated Mexico's commitment to world peace on Sunday, emphasising the principle amid escalating Middle East tensions. She referenced Mexico's constitutional foreign policy principles of national self-determination, non-intervention, and peaceful dispute resolution.

Three Methamphetamine Distributors Arrested in Bima, One Repeat Offender

Police in Bima, West Nusa Tenggara, have arrested three methamphetamine distributors in coordinated raids across two locations, including one recidivist drug offender. The operations resulted in the seizure of approximately 28.37 grammes of methamphetamine and 1.05 grammes of cannabis, along with drug paraphernalia and cash. All three suspects have been transferred to the Bima City Police Narcotics Unit for further legal proceedings.

Ministry of Health: Safeguard children's hearing health for Indonesia's Golden 2045

The Indonesian Ministry of Health emphasised the importance of protecting children's hearing health to achieve Indonesia's Golden 2045 development targets, noting that hearing impairment can affect child development, language acquisition, learning performance, and future productivity.

CT Remembers Try Sutrisno: A Figure to be Emulated

Chairul Tanjung, Chairman of CT Corp, paid his respects at the residence of the late former Vice President Try Sutrisno, describing him as a figure worthy of emulation. Tanjung recalled his close relationship with Sutrisno, forged through their shared involvement in Indonesian badminton leadership, hoping that Sutrisno's exemplary character would be inherited by future generations. Sutrisno, Indonesia's 6th Vice President (1993–1998), passed away at age 90 on 2 March 2026.

Airlangga Says Iran War Will Disrupt Indonesia's Logistics and Tourism

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has warned that the escalating conflict between Iran, the United States and Israel will inevitably drive up global oil prices and disrupt Indonesia's supply chains, transportation, and tourism sectors.

Bio Farma Chief Outlines Indonesia's Health Product Opportunities Following BPOM's WHO Listed Authority Status

PT Bio Farma's Chief Executive Officer Shadiq Akasya has expressed optimism that Indonesia's pharmaceutical industry will benefit significantly from the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) achieving WHO Listed Authority (WLA) status, which recognises the quality equivalence of domestic health products internationally.

Bali Airport Updates Data as 15 Flights Cancelled Following Conflict

Bali's I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport has updated its data to reflect 15 international flight cancellations since 28 February 2026 due to airspace closures resulting from the US-Israel-Iran conflict. The cancellations comprise eight departing flights and seven incoming flights, affecting carriers including Etihad Airways, Emirates, and Qatar Airways. The airport's communication division has confirmed the figures as of 2 March 2026.

Stock Exchange Chief Responds to IHSG Decline Due to Middle East Conflict

The Acting Director-General of the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI), Jeffrey Hendrik, has urged investors to remain rational and focus on fundamentals amid the escalating Iran-Israel-US conflict and its impact on regional markets. The IHSG opened 0.29 percent lower on Monday, following broader Asian market weakness, as the Middle East crisis threatens critical shipping routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, which carries 20-25 percent of global crude oil and LNG supplies daily.

One Year of Regent Rudy Susmanto's Leadership in Bogor: 80.3 Per Cent Public Satisfaction

A public survey by political researcher Bawono Kumoro shows that Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto and Deputy Regent Ade Ruhandi have achieved approval ratings of 80.3 per cent and 79.3 per cent respectively after one year in office, significantly exceeding the 50 per cent psychological threshold. Health and education services emerged as the strongest performing sectors, with satisfaction levels of 74 per cent and 69 per cent respectively, though economic issues remain an area requiring attention.

Driving Self-Sufficiency in the Health Sector, Indonesia Needs This

Indonesia's national pharmaceutical industry faces significant challenges in raw material supply for vaccine production, with many ingredients still imported from abroad. Biofarma's Director argues that upstream sector strengthening through domestic raw material availability, combined with BPOM's new WHO Listed Authority (WLA) status, is crucial for achieving health sector self-sufficiency and expanding export markets to over 150 countries.

Muzani Reveals Try Sutrisno's Request Before Death: Constitution Amendment

MPR Chairman Ahmad Muzani has disclosed that former Vice President Try Sutrisno, who died on 2 March 2026, had requested a fifth amendment to the 1945 Constitution before his passing. Muzani stated that Try Sutrisno wished the amendment to be completed during his lifetime to strengthen national unity and ensure Indonesia's continued stability and progress.

US-Iran War: Khamenei's Death and the Infinite Game

Following the hypothetical assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei by US-Israeli forces, Middle East observer Sabpri Piliang argues that Iran's crisis will not simply end with Khamenei's death but represents a deeper geopolitical confrontation reminiscent of Cold War tensions.

Prabowo Leads Funeral Service of Former Vice President Try Sutrisno at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery, with Gibran in Attendance

President Prabowo Subianto presided over the state funeral of Try Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth Vice President, at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in South Jakarta on Monday, 2 March 2026. Sutrisno, who served as Vice President from 1993-1998 and as Armed Forces Commander from 1988-1993, passed away at age 90 at RSPAD Gatot Soebroto military hospital.

When is the Isbat Hearing for the Determination of Eid al-Fitr 2026? Check the Schedule!

The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs will hold an isbat hearing on Thursday, 19 March 2026 at 16:00 WIB to determine the official date of Eid al-Fitr 1447 AH, with proceedings involving astronomers from BMKG, BRIN, and Islamic organisations.

Police Prepare Traffic Engineering Measures Including One-Way Systems and Contraflow for Eid 2026 Return Exodus

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo announced that the Indonesian National Police (Polri) will implement comprehensive traffic engineering strategies during the 2026 Eid holiday return exodus, including one-way systems, contraflow measures, and vehicle restrictions.

Indonesia Stock Exchange Imposes 3,040 Sanctions on 453 Listed Companies Throughout 2025

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) has imposed 3,040 sanctions against 453 listed companies during 2025, demonstrating its commitment to maintaining market integrity and regulatory compliance. The majority of sanctions (1,223) were for late financial reporting submissions, followed by free float requirement breaches and inadequate public disclosure. Additional infractions included late annual listing fees, bond maturity fund readiness reports, and mining exploration disclosures.

Are Campuses Ready as Robots Become Smarter?

Indonesian universities are struggling to adequately prepare students for the robotics and automation revolution, with electrical engineering education remaining largely theoretical rather than project-based. Nusa Mandira University argues that higher education must shift toward integrated, practical learning approaches combining electrical engineering with artificial intelligence, programming, and industrial collaboration to bridge the growing gap between graduate competencies and Industry 4.

President Prabowo Leads State Funeral of Sixth Vice-President Try Sutrisno at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery

President Prabowo Subianto presided over the state funeral of Indonesia's sixth Vice-President Try Sutrisno at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in South Jakarta on 2 March 2026. The ceremony was attended by current Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, several cabinet ministers, and former presidents and vice-presidents, including Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, Jusuf Kalla, and Boediono.

Did Trump Need Congressional Approval to Attack Iran?

The United States and Israel launched a major military operation against Iran, killing over 200 people and causing significant casualties across multiple countries, but the operation proceeded without formal congressional authorisation.

Man impersonating narcotics chief steals motorcycle from taxi rider in East Jakarta

A man impersonating a narcotics unit chief from Jakarta Metro Police deceived motorcycle taxi drivers by promising payment of 300,000 rupiah before stealing their vehicles in Kramat Jati, East Jakarta. Authorities have warned the public against trusting individuals claiming to be police without verifying their official identification, as the suspect exploited people's trust and used the promise of unusually large payments to facilitate theft.

US F-15 Fighter Jet Crashes in Kuwait, Pilot Safe

A US F-15 fighter jet crashed near Ali Al Salem airbase in Kuwait on 2 March 2026 during ongoing US-Israeli military operations against Iran, with video evidence suggesting the aircraft may have been struck by friendly fire from a Kuwaiti Patriot air defence system. The pilot safely ejected and sustained only minor injuries, though debris from the crash fell into the Mina Al Ahmadi oil refinery complex, injuring two workers.

Light Rain and Grey Skies Mark Final Resting Place of Try Sutrisno at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery

General (retired) Try Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth Vice President, was laid to rest at Taman Makam Pahlawan (Heroes Cemetery) Kalibata in South Jakarta on 2 March 2026 in a formal military ceremony. President Prabowo Subianto presided as ceremony inspector, paying final respects amid grey skies and intermittent rain as military honours including drum bands and salvos accompanied the funeral procession.

Bripda P Undergoes Ethics Hearing in Case of Bripda DP's Death

Bripda P, a senior police officer accused of assaulting junior officer Bripda DP (19) to death at the South Sulawesi Police Academy barracks, is undergoing an ethics hearing. The hearing examines 14 witnesses who were present at the scene when the assault occurred, with investigators having identified Bripda P as the primary suspect and two other officers under investigation for allegedly covering up the incident.

Constitutional Court Rejects Hasto's Challenge to Anti-Corruption Law Article 21

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has dismissed a judicial review petition filed by PDIP Secretary General Hasto Kristiyanto challenging Article 21 of the Anti-Corruption Law, ruling that the matter has lost its legal object following a previous ruling that declared the phrase "directly or indirectly" in the provision unconstitutional.

Iran claims destruction of THAAD radar in UAE

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed to have destroyed a US Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) radar system in the United Arab Emirates and attacked a US naval fuel-supply vessel in the Indian Ocean, according to state news agency Tasnim. The strikes are part of "Operation True Promise 4," Iranian retaliation following a US-Israeli combined attack on 28 February that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and over 100 civilians.

Governor of West Nusa Tenggara Monitors Citizens in 7 Countries Affected by US-Israel-Iran Conflict

The Governor of West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), Lalu Muhamad Iqbal, is actively monitoring the safety of NTB citizens in seven Middle Eastern nations—Iran, Saudi Arabia, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, and Kuwait—amid escalating tensions from the US-Israel conflict with Iran.

Military Commander leads handover of Vice President Try Sutrisno's remains to the state

The Commander of the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI), General Agus Subiyanto, led a ceremonial handover of the remains of former Vice President Try Sutrisno at the Sunda Kelapa Grand Mosque in Jakarta on Monday. Try Sutrisno, the sixth Vice President of Indonesia, passed away at the Armed Forces Central Hospital (RSPAD) Gatot Soebroto at the age of 90, with his remains set to be interred at the Kalibata Heroes Cemetery.

143.9 Million People Expected to Travel Home for Eid al-Fitr 2026

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture, Pratikno, has emphasised that public safety is the highest priority during the 2026 Eid al-Fitr period, with an estimated 143.9 million people expected to travel during the holiday exodus.

Middle East Tensions Disrupt Flights; Citilink Responds

Escalating conflict in the Middle East has prompted several countries to close their airspace and forced global airlines to cancel or reroute flights. Citilink stated its operations remain unaffected as the airline has no direct routes to the region, though it is coordinating with airport stakeholders to monitor potential delays or schedule changes. Garuda Indonesia has suspended flights to Doha, Qatar and other Indonesian carriers have adjusted their routes to avoid affected airspace.

Airlangga states US-Israel attacks on Iran could disrupt supply chains: Government prepares alternative oil sources

Minister of Economic Coordination Airlangga Hartarto warned that the escalating conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran poses a significant threat to global oil supplies and energy prices.

Constitutional Court Rejects Premature Challenge to Parliamentary Threshold Law

The Constitutional Court (MK) declined to accept a judicial review petition challenging Article 414(1) of the 2017 Election Law regarding the parliamentary threshold on grounds that the petition was premature.

Honor showcases Robot Phone with moveable, dancing camera

Honor has unveiled detailed specifications of its concept "Robot Phone," featuring a robotic camera arm capable of independent movement and responsive gestures, scheduled for launch in the second half of 2026. The innovative device includes features such as a 90-180 degree rotating Spinshot camera for cinematic shots, AI-based object tracking for video calls, and a micro-motor system derived from foldable phone technology.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Restores Former Mining Site in Palembang

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga is implementing a comprehensive corporate social and environmental responsibility (TJSL) programme to rehabilitate 105 hectares of former clay quarrying land in Palembang's Talang Jambe and Talang Betutu districts.

Gianyar Police Chief Releases Three Retiring Personnel: Not the End of Service

Gianyar Police Chief AKBP Chandra C. Kesuma held a ceremony to honour personnel receiving promotions and to formally release three officers entering retirement. The chief emphasised that rank promotions symbolise institutional recognition of dedication and integrity, while retirement marks a transition rather than an end to public service.

Pramono Submits Environmental Protection Bylaw for 30-Year Plan

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has submitted a draft regional regulation for a 30-year Environmental Protection and Management Plan (RPPLH) to serve as the foundation for development and spatial planning policies. The plan envisions creating a "Safe, Healthy, and Sustainable Environment for a Global City for All," with three primary objectives: improving environmental quality, strengthening environmental carrying capacity, and increasing biodiversity.

Purchase Samsung Galaxy S26 Trio in Indonesia, Protected Across 121 Countries

Samsung's Galaxy S26 series, launched on 25 February 2026 and available for purchase in Indonesia, comes with international warranty coverage valid across 121 countries including the United States, Japan, Singapore, Germany, the United Kingdom, South Korea and Saudi Arabia. The warranty permits owners to seek repairs at Samsung service centres in any of the covered countries during travel or international use.

TNI completes connecting bridge between communities in Central Tapanuli

The Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) has completed the Garuda Pioneer Bridge in Tukka District, Central Tapanuli Regency, North Sumatra, connecting two communities as a vital access route for local residents. The 50-metre bridge was built through integrated efforts to accelerate infrastructure recovery following natural disaster damage in the region.

Domestic Worker Assaulted by Employer Family for Soiling Shrine During Chinese New Year

A domestic worker in Sunter, North Jakarta was assaulted by her employer's family in 2023 after allegedly contaminating a household shrine during Chinese New Year celebrations. Police stated that the suspect apologised and the victim forgave them, with both parties reconciling shortly after the incident; the victim reportedly did not file a formal complaint and continues to work for the employer.

Fishing Vessel Struck by Cargo Barge in Indramayu Waters, Two Dead and Four Missing

A fishing vessel, KM Al Mujib, sank after being struck by cargo barge number 3009 in waters near Rakit Island and Biawak Island, Indramayu Regency, on Saturday, 28 February 2026 at approximately 22:00 WIB. The collision resulted in two fishermen dead and four missing, whilst two crew members were rescued. The six-tonne vessel had departed from Karangsong Port with eight crew members aboard under the command of Captain Jupri Priyanto.

God Help Us Later? The Economic Portrait of East Nusa Tenggara Province

East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Province recorded positive economic growth of 4.88 per cent year-on-year in the third quarter of 2025, supported by increased domestic consumption and government spending, though the growth slowed from the previous quarter's 5.38 per cent. The regional economy faced challenges including slower agricultural performance due to crop rotation cycles and contracting provincial revenue growth of -3.21 per cent year-on-year, as government spending efficiency measures took effect under President Prabowo's 2025 directive.

Latest LPG Prices for 3kg, 5.5kg and 12kg Bottles, Effective 2 March 2026

Indonesia plans to increase its LPG imports from the United States to 70% of supply, up from the current 57%, as part of a new trade agreement aimed at securing energy supplies and obtaining competitive pricing. Pertamina's director will conduct the US$15 billion energy import programme through transparent tendering processes. Current retail prices in South Tangerang remain stable at Rp19,000 for 3kg subsidised bottles and Rp110,000-Rp210,000 for non-subsidised 5.

Honor launches robot phone ahead of MWC 2026

Chinese technology firm Honor unveiled its inaugural "Robot Phone" featuring an industry-first three-axis gimbal camera system integrated into a smartphone, alongside its new Augmented Human Intelligence (AHI) concept, ahead of Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona. The device combines advanced AI capabilities with cinematic imaging performance, including full-angle AI video calls, body language interaction, and AI-powered object tracking, representing what Honor calls embodied AI technology.

Retired General Try Sutrisno, Former Vice President, Passes Away; State Secretary Hails Him as Model of National Love

Retired General Try Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth Vice President (1993–1998), has passed away at age 90, prompting tributes from government officials who celebrated his lifetime of nationalist dedication and ideological guardianship. State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi praised Sutrisno as an exemplary figure whose commitment to national sovereignty and the preservation of Pancasila remained steadfast until his death.

S&P Report Shows Indonesia's Manufacturing Expansion Strengthens

Indonesia's manufacturing sector expanded in February 2026 with a Purchasing Manager's Index (PMI) of 53.8, up from 52.6 in January, marking the strongest growth since March 2024, according to Standard & Poor's Global Ratings. The improvement was driven by accelerating demand for Indonesian manufactured products, rising new orders over seven consecutive months, increased employment at its highest level since November, and rising input purchases.

Foreign Investors Buy Shares as Jakarta Composite Index Declines Amid Iran-US Conflict

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell 1.6% to 8,103.72 points during the first trading session on 2 March 2026, amid escalating tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran following reports of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's death. Despite the market decline, foreign investors recorded net purchases of Rp32.

Oil Price Breaches 82 US Dollars per Barrel; Airlangga: Iran Conflict Disrupts Global Supply

Crude oil prices have surged to 82 US dollars per barrel following escalating Israel-US military conflict with Iran, according to Indonesia's Economic Coordinator Minister Airlangga Hartarto.

Mother of deceased child NS appeals to Parliament for justice over alleged abuse death in Sukabumi

The biological mother of child NS, who died allegedly due to abuse by a stepmother in Sukabumi, appeared before the Third Commission of the Indonesian Parliament to seek justice for her son. The child's lawyer presented evidence of unexplained bruises and burns on the body, alongside suspicious circumstances including the father's apparent neglect to seek medical treatment and his absence from the funeral, raising questions about deliberate abandonment.

Which Senior Iranian Figures Died in the US-Israeli Attack?

A coordinated US-Israeli military operation on 28 February resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, aged 86, along with several senior government and military officials including Defence Secretary Ali Shamkhani, Armed Forces Chief of Staff Abdolrahim Mousavi, Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh, and IRGC Commander Mohammad Pakpour.

Jeddah–Makassar flights continue normal operations

Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Makassar has confirmed that flight operations on the Jeddah–Makassar route remain normal and on schedule despite the evolving situation in the Middle East region. Recent operations, including a Lion Air arrival on 1 March 2026 with 386 passengers and a Flyadeal departure on 2 March 2026 with 79 passengers, proceeded safely without disruption.

Middle East Conflict: NTB Governor Communicates with Indonesian Ambassadors to Ensure Citizens' Safety

Following escalating tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, Nusa Tenggara Barat (NTB) Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal has coordinated with multiple Indonesian embassies across the Gulf region and Iran to ensure the safety and monitoring of NTB citizens abroad.

Indonesian Embassy Shelters Indonesian Citizens in Iran as Ambassador Assures Safety

Indonesia's Ambassador to Iran, Rolliansyah Soemirat, has confirmed that all 329 registered Indonesian citizens in Iran are safe, with six currently sheltering at the Indonesian Embassy in Tehran after losing their accommodation.

Indonesia's Economy Threatened by Conflict; Government Urged to Prepare Fiscal Scenario

Mukhamad Misbakhun, Chair of the House of Representatives Commission XI, has called on the Indonesian government to activate contingency fiscal scenarios and strengthen monetary stability amid escalating military conflicts in the Middle East that threaten to raise global oil prices and destabilise domestic markets. The escalation risks currency depreciation, increased energy subsidies, and inflation pressures particularly during the Ramadhan and Eid periods when consumer spending peaks.

Fact Check: Ministry of Religion Using Zakat for Free Nutritious Meals Programme is False

A social media claim that Indonesia's Minister of Religion Nasaruddin Umar would use zakat and waqf donations to support the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG) has been debunked as false. The Ministry of Religion clarified that zakat funds cannot be used outside the eight legitimate recipients (asnaf) as stipulated in Islamic law, and there is no policy linking zakat to the MBG programme.

The 10 Largest Oil Companies in the World, From China to Saudi Arabia

Saudi Aramco leads the global oil and gas sector with a market capitalisation of US$1.66 trillion, though the top 10 list is dominated by corporations from the United States and China. Escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and concerns over supply disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz have prompted investors to reassess their portfolios and focus on energy company valuations, with oil prices rising 7.4% to US$77.98 per barrel amid regional uncertainty.

Commission III Urges Sukabumi Police Chief to Investigate Gangsters Associated with Father of NS, Child Who Died at Parents' Hands

Commission III of the Indonesian House of Representatives has pressed the Sukabumi Police Chief to investigate gangster networks connected to Anwar Satibi, the father of NS, a 12-year-old child who died in February 2026 after suffering severe violence from his stepmother and biological father.

Indonesian Umrah Pilgrim Hopes to Return Home on Schedule Amid US-Israel-Iran Conflict

An Indonesian umrah pilgrim, Salsabila, is closely monitoring her return flight to Indonesia scheduled for the coming days amidst escalating tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran. She departed for the Holy Land before the recent US-Israeli military strikes on Iran and plans to return via Qatar Airways with a transit stop in Doha.

Travellers Able to Deposit Motorcycles at Police Stations During Eid Return 2026

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has announced a motorcycle deposit service at police stations nationwide for travellers returning home during Eid holidays in 2026. As part of Operation Ketupat 2026, the police are deploying 161,243 personnel and establishing 2,746 posts to secure 185,608 facilities across the country, whilst implementing traffic management measures on toll roads including odd-even systems and contraflow lanes.

Coordinating Minister Airlangga: US-Iran conflict risks triggering fuel price rises

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has warned that escalating military conflict between the United States and Iran could drive up domestic fuel prices, primarily through disruption of global oil supply should the Strait of Hormuz be closed. The government is mitigating risk through agreements to source oil from non-Middle Eastern suppliers, including partnerships between state-owned PT Pertamina and American energy companies such as Chevron and ExxonMobil.

The Middle East at a New Flashpoint

Tensions between the United States and Israel versus Iran escalated to a critical point on 28 February, with the US launching major military operations against Iran following Israeli airstrikes and Iranian missile attacks. The conflict resulted in significant casualties, including the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and has disrupted regional stability and international commerce.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Holds Isbat Session for Determining Eid al-Fitr 2026 on 19 March 2026

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs will hold an isbat (legal determination) session on 19 March 2026 to officially determine the date of Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah, involving astronomy experts from various national institutions and Islamic organisations. The session will be conducted at the Ministry's headquarters in Jakarta, with moon sighting reports coordinated from monitoring points across Indonesia to ensure accurate and transparent proceedings.

Muslims Encouraged to Perform Eclipse Prayer During Total Lunar Eclipse on 3 March 2026

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has called on Muslims to perform eclipse prayer (sholat khusuf) during a total lunar eclipse scheduled for 3 March 2026, coinciding with 13 Ramadan 1447 Hijriyah. The eclipse will be visible across all Indonesian regions at different times, with the Ministry directing worshippers to view it as an act of worship and self-reflection on the greatness of Allah.

Deputy Chair of DPR Commission VIII Calls for Mitigation of Middle East Conflict Impact on Indonesian Pilgrims

Abdul Wachid, Deputy Chair of DPR Commission VIII, has urged the government to implement urgent mitigation measures to protect Indonesian pilgrims undertaking Umrah amid Middle East tensions, as airspace closures and flight disruptions threaten pilgrims both in Saudi Arabia and in transit. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has advised Indonesians to postpone Umrah travel plans until security conditions stabilise, particularly as Ramadan approaches and pilgrim departures typically surge.

GoFood-Kemnaker collaboration drives Bandung SMEs to next level

GoFood, the food delivery service of PT GoTo Gojek Tokopedia Tbk, has launched the "Maju Bersama GoFood" (Advance Together with GoFood) initiative in Bandung in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and West Java's Small and Medium Enterprise Office to accelerate the digitalisation of hundreds of culinary micro and small enterprises.

Ahead of Lebaran 2026, Motorists Urged to Prioritise Safety When Parking

As Lebaran 2026 approaches, authorities and road safety experts are warning the public to increase vigilance against rising crime during the extended holiday period, particularly vehicle theft from public parking areas. Jakarta Defensive Driving Consulting director Jusri Pulubuhu recommends motorists choose secure, well-monitored parking locations and avoid leaving valuables in vehicles, whilst ensuring vehicle security systems are functioning properly.

Russian Foreign National Found Dead Floating at Parangtritis Beach

A 50-year-old Russian tourist, Liudmila Papenina, was found floating lifeless in the waters off Parangtritis Beach in Bantul on Monday morning. The woman, who was on the final day of a month-long holiday in Indonesia with five companions, separated from her group to take photographs with horses before disappearing into the water; rescue teams recovered her body and transported her to hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

FIFA Series 2026 Schedule: When Will the Indonesian National Team Play and Against Whom?

Indonesia will host a FIFA Series 2026 mini-tournament in Jakarta on 27 and 30 March 2026, featuring four nations competing at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium. The Indonesian national team will face Saint Kitts and Nevis in the opening match on 27 March, with Bulgaria and Solomon Islands playing in the other semi-final, with winners advancing to the final on 30 March.

Gold Prices Today 2 March 2026: Antam, Pegadaian, and Hartadinata Rise

Gold prices strengthened across multiple precious metal providers in Indonesia on Monday 2 March 2026, with Antam, Pegadaian Galeri 24, UBS, and Hartadinata (EMASKU) all recording price increases. The price rises occurred amid escalating Middle Eastern geopolitical tensions following US and Israeli military actions against Iran and subsequent Iranian retaliation. Antam's 1-gram gold bars increased by Rp 50,000 to reach Rp 3,135,000 per gram, whilst Pegadaian's prices also rose moderately.

Winning Strategy for BUMN and Management Trainee Selection: Intelligence Alone Is Not Enough, Here's the Winning Tactic

Many Indonesian university students and fresh graduates aspire to join State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN) or Management Trainee programmes, but face intense competition with only a handful of thousands of applicants succeeding. The article outlines that academic excellence alone is insufficient; candidates must develop comprehensive strategies including in-depth company research, strategic CV presentation, and strong communication skills to navigate the lengthy multi-stage selection process.

Development of AI Technology: The Era of Agentic AI and Predictions Towards AGI by 2030

In 2026, artificial intelligence has evolved from generative AI to agentic AI systems capable of autonomous decision-making and task execution without continuous human intervention. The article explores how Indonesia is positioning itself in this technological race through government initiatives via Komdigi, with AI adoption reaching 92% across sectors and predictions of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) emerging by 2029-2030.

Sutiyoso Remembers Try Sutrisno as a Guiding Figure and Role Model for Military Officers

Former Jakarta Governor Sutiyoso paid tribute to Indonesia's sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno following his death, describing him as a guiding figure and exemplar for military academy alumni. Sutiyoso recalled their close relationship spanning decades, from when Try served as Army Chief of Staff through his vice presidency, praising Sutrisno's approachable demeanor and mentorship that guided Sutiyoso's own political career.

Despite Homeward Migration Numbers Falling to 143.9 Million, 161,243 Personnel Deployed in Operation Ketupat 2026

Indonesia's National Police have mobilised 161,243 personnel for Operation Ketupat 2026, the annual security operation during the Lebaran holiday exodus, despite survey data showing a 1.75 per cent decline in projected homeward migrants to 143.9 million people.

Indonesian Ambassador: 23 Indonesian Citizens Temporarily Stranded at Abu Dhabi Airport Now Safe

Twenty-three Indonesian nationals who were temporarily stranded at Abu Dhabi's Zayed International Airport due to escalating military tensions in the Middle East have been evacuated safely and accommodated in hotels. The citizens, mostly transit passengers and umrah pilgrims, were detained after airspace closures forced airlines to cancel flights following Iranian missile and drone attacks on UAE targets in early March 2026.

Jakarta experiences inflation of 0.63 per cent in February 2026

Jakarta experienced monthly inflation of 0.63 per cent in February 2026, slightly lower than the national rate of 0.68 per cent, with jewellery gold and broiler chicken meat being the primary drivers of price increases. The persistent inflation in jewellery gold, now at 9.61 per cent, has been fuelled by sustained global gold price rises, whilst broiler chicken prices surged 10.54 per cent, approaching four-year highs.

Debt Collector Who Stabbed Advocate Deliberately Carried Sharp Weapon to Anticipate Debtor Resistance

A debt collector identified as JBI, who stabbed an advocate during a vehicle repossession attempt in Tangerang on 24 February 2026, deliberately carried a sharp weapon in anticipation of resistance from the debtor, according to Jakarta Metro Police spokesperson Kombes Pol Budi Hermanto. JBI was arrested whilst fleeing on the Kalikangkung toll road in Semarang, with two accomplices still at large and listed as wanted persons.

Coordinating Minister AHY Attends Cap Go Meh Singkawang

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) attended the Cap Go Meh celebrations in Singkawang, West Kalimantan on 2–3 March 2026, whilst inspecting major infrastructure projects in the region. During his visit, AHY reviewed the Singkawang Airport Road access project and a "Sekolah Rakyat" (Community School) initiative, emphasising that infrastructure development must directly improve living standards and strengthen regional economic growth.

HIMKI Emphasises IFEX as Strategic Platform to Strengthen Indonesia's Craft Industry

The Indonesian Furniture and Craft Industry Association (HIMKI) has emphasised that the Indonesia International Furniture Expo (IFEX) 2026 will serve as a strategic platform to strengthen the competitiveness of Indonesia's furniture and craft industries in global markets.

High School Student in Belu Recovers from Assault by Teacher; Family Rejects Settlement

A 16-year-old student at SMA Negeri 1 Atambua in Belu, East Nusa Tenggara, has been discharged from hospital after being assaulted by her biology teacher, Vince Aplugi, during an examination on 24 February 2026. Despite the school principal's attempt to resolve the matter amicably, the student's family has rejected settlement and insisted on pursuing the case through formal legal proceedings, with a police interview scheduled.

President Prabowo Scheduled to Lead Military Funeral Ceremony for Former Vice President Try Sutrisno at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery

President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to lead the state military funeral ceremony for General (retired) Try Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth Vice President, at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in South Jakarta on Monday (2 March). Sutrisno, 90, passed away whilst receiving treatment at the Indonesian Army Central Hospital and will be accorded a state funeral, with State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi emphasising his lifelong dedication to safeguarding national unity and constitutional values.

Pertamina Monitoring Business Operations and Crew Safety in the Middle East

PT Pertamina is closely monitoring its three strategic business units operating in the Middle East following Israeli and American military strikes against Iran. The state-owned energy company has implemented risk mitigation measures and strengthened communication with the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and diplomatic missions to safeguard operational continuity and crew security.

Constitutional Court Rejects Material Test of Obstruction of Justice Provision Submitted by Hasto Kristiyanto

The Constitutional Court (MK) has rejected a material test petition filed by PDI Perjuangan Secretary Hasto Kristiyanto challenging Article 21 of the Anti-Corruption Law, ruling that the petition has lost its legal object. This decision follows the Court's prior ruling declaring the phrase "directly or indirectly" in Article 21 unconstitutional, as it was deemed susceptible to arbitrary application by law enforcement officials and violated principles of legal certainty.

PNJ Summons Student Who Pointed Finger at Police Officer During Mabes Polri Demonstration

Jakarta State Polytechnic (PNJ) will summon student SB after he shouted whilst pointing at police officers during a demonstration at Police Headquarters (Mabes Polri) on Monday, 2 March 2026. The student was observed wearing a University of Indonesia alumni jacket during the unauthorised personal protest, and PNJ has clarified he was not part of an officially coordinated student action.

BMKG: Peak of Total Lunar Eclipse on 3 March 2026 Occurs at 18:33 WIB, Viewable from Indonesia

Indonesia's Meteorological, Climatological and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) has confirmed that a total lunar eclipse will occur on 3 March 2026, observable from various regions across Indonesia, with the peak occurring at 18:33 WIB. The entire eclipse process will last 5 hours 41 minutes 51 seconds, with the total phase lasting 59 minutes 27 seconds, during which the Moon is expected to display a reddish hue due to Rayleigh scattering in Earth's atmosphere.

Kampung Kramat Bridge in Cipayung Subsides, Four-Wheeled Vehicles Prohibited from Crossing

The Kampung Kramat bridge in Setu, Cipayung, East Jakarta has partially reopened for motorcycles following subsidence that forced a complete closure on 1 March 2026. The subsidence in the bridge deck has caused severe traffic congestion in surrounding areas, prompting the Cipayung District Head to order steel plate installation to allow motorcycles to pass whilst four-wheeled vehicles are diverted to alternative routes.

National Police Pursue Ko Andre alias "The Doctor", Alleged Drug Supplier to Koko Erwin

Indonesia's National Police have issued a wanted persons list for Ko Andre (Andre Fernado), alias "The Doctor", on 1 March 2026, for allegedly supplying crystal methamphetamine and other narcotics including vape cartridges containing etomidate to suspected drug kingpin Erwin Iskandar (Koko Erwin). The 31-year-old distributor allegedly smuggled drugs into Indonesia via land routes and cargo, with networks extending to Riau, and conducted at least two methamphetamine transactions with Koko Erwin.

US Embassy in Kuwait Issues Warning Over Missile and Drone Threats

The US Embassy in Kuwait has issued a security warning to American citizens and staff regarding ongoing threats from missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in the region. The embassy has instructed all personnel to shelter in place and review security contingency plans. The warning comes amid escalating tensions between Iran and the United States following Iranian military strikes on American military installations in Kuwait and Bahrain.

Chromebook Hearing Raises GOTO Share Valuation Issue; Management Claims Full Compliance with Regulations

During a corruption trial concerning Chromebook procurement involving Gojek founder and former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim, PT GoTo Gojek Tokopedia Tbk's management testified and issued a formal statement defending its share pricing practices.

Arab Region in Escalating Crisis as New Explosions Rock Bahrain, Dubai, Doha and Kuwait

Multiple explosions were reported across the Arab Gulf region on Monday, March 2, 2026, including incidents in Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait and Iraq, with at least one confirmed death in Bahrain and 32 injured foreign nationals in Kuwait.

Shophouse Fire in Tanjungbalai, Kepri Kills Three, Including Two Children

A shophouse fire in Tanjungbalai, Karimun Regency, Riau Islands on 2 March killed three people—two children and one adult—who became trapped in the burning building. Investigators are working to identify the victims and determine the cause of the fire, whilst police have cordoned off the area as the families remain in shock.

Culture Minister Emphasises Culture as Future Strength of the Nation

Culture Minister Fadli Zon has emphasised that culture must serve as a strategic force for Indonesia's present and future through the cultural and creative industries and intellectual property-based economy. He highlighted Indonesia's vast cultural heritage spanning from Sabang to Merauke, reinforced by recent discoveries including the world's oldest known cave paintings dated at 67,800 years old in Sulawesi Tenggara, demonstrating the nation's ancient civilisation.

Tenure of Bali Regional Parliament's TRAP Special Committee Extended by Six Months

The Bali Regional Parliament (DPRD) has extended the tenure of its Special Committee on Spatial Planning, Assets and Licensing (Pansus TRAP) for a further six months, as decided during a closed leadership meeting chaired by DPRD Chair Dewa Made Mahayadnya. The committee's membership will be refreshed with nominations from all four parliamentary factions, with its budget already allocated in the 2026 main budget, and I Made Suparta continuing as chairman.

Moeldoko Pays Tribute to Try Sutrisno's Values of Honesty and Patriotism

Former Presidential Chief of Staff Moeldoko has paid tribute to late Vice President Try Sutrisno, who passed away on Monday morning, highlighting his extraordinary patriotism, honesty, and dedication to inspiring TNI soldiers. Moeldoko emphasised that Sutrisno's core values—particularly his commitment to military presence among the people and respect for women's rights—profoundly shaped his own leadership philosophy, which centred on the principle that TNI's strength depends on public support.

Cabinet Ministers Attend Funeral of Former Vice President Try Sutrisno at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery

Indonesia's sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno was laid to rest at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in Jakarta on Monday with full state honours, attended by President Prabowo Subianto and multiple cabinet ministers. The 90-year-old statesman, who died at a military hospital from age-related decline, was accorded ceremonial gun salutes and military honours befitting his status as a former national leader.

Constitutional Court Amends Obstruction of Justice Clause in Anti-Corruption Law

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has struck down the phrase "directly or indirectly" from Article 21 of the Anti-Corruption Law, ruling that it unconstitutionally restricts freedom of expression and creates legal uncertainty. The court found that the vague language could lead to overcriminalisation of legitimate activities such as journalists' investigations, legal advocacy, and public discussions, blurring the line between lawful expression and criminal conduct.

Prabowo Presides Over Military Funeral Ceremony for Former Vice President Try Sutrisno at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery

President Prabowo Subianto led the military funeral ceremony for Indonesia's sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno on 2 March 2026 at Taman Makam Pahlawan (Heroes Cemetery) Kalibata in South Jakarta. Try Sutrisno, who served as Vice President from 1993 to 1998 and as Commander of the Armed Forces from 1988 to 1993, died at the age of 90 at RSPAD Gatot Soebroto Military Hospital due to age-related health decline.

When Time is No Longer Worth Money: AI and the Transformation of Work Structure

Artificial intelligence is fundamentally challenging Indonesia's time-based employment model, which has underpinned capitalism for over two centuries.

Broken Bridge in Lembar to Be Repaired This Year, Budget of Rp 2 Billion Allocated

The West Lombok Regency Government has committed to repairing a collapsed bridge in Sekotong Timur Village, Lembar District, this year with a budget of Rp 2 billion (approximately USD 130,000). The bridge, which connects Sekotong Timur and Mareje villages and collapsed on 22 February 2026 due to river flooding, will be extended by 10-11 metres and widened to accommodate four-wheeled vehicles, whilst an adjacent 3-kilometre access road will also be rehabilitated using hotmix asphalt.

Secrets of Hallucinations in Ancient Greek Mystery Cult: Toxic Fungus as Sacred Potion?

A new study published in Scientific Reports provides experimental evidence that the Eleusinian Mysteries of ancient Greece may have used ergot fungus—a poisonous mushroom—processed into a hallucinogenic drink to induce spiritual visions among initiates. Researchers demonstrated that using ancient alkaline solutions made from water and wood ash could neutralise the toxic proteins in ergot whilst preserving its hallucinogenic compound lysergic acid amide (LSA), a chemical cousin of LSD.

Signs Emerge That Rice Production Will Decline, Here Is BPS's Explanation

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) forecasts that national rice production for February-April 2026 will decline by 4.02% to 12.23 million tonnes compared to the same period in 2025, driven primarily by a projected 3.87% decrease in harvested area. The decline is attributed to high rainfall expected across Indonesia over the coming months, which will negatively impact rice cultivation in all regions.

Combined TNI-Polri forces recover 561 rounds of ammunition at KKB camp in Nabire

Combined Indonesian military and police forces (TNI-Polri) have secured 561 rounds of ammunition and other evidence during an operation against an armed criminal group (KKB) led by Aibon Kogoya in Nabire Regency, Central Papua, following an earlier attack on PT Kristalin's security post. The operation, which involved a firefight on 1 March, resulted in the recovery of cash totalling Rp79.7 million and 12 mobile phones, with all evidence secured for further investigation.

Government Urged to Prepare Concrete Policies to Mitigate Iran War Impact

The chairman of Indonesia's parliamentary Commission XI, Mukhamad Misbakhun, has called on the government to urgently develop concrete policy responses to mitigate potential economic pressures on Indonesia, particularly during the Ramadhan and Eid al-Fitr period, amid escalating US-Israel-Iran tensions.

National Police Chief Introduces Safe Journey, Happy Family Tagline, Directs Officers to Provide Optimal Service to Public

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo unveiled the "Safe Journey, Happy Family" tagline for Operation Ketupat 2026, directing police to prioritise preemptive measures and humanitarian service during the exodus season when 143.9 million people are expected to travel. The National Police have deployed 2,746 posts nationwide and mobilised 161,243 combined personnel to secure 185,608 protected objects, with preparations emphasising disaster readiness and optimised emergency services.

Bulog Chief Executive Urges Innovation in Economically Valuable Rice Husk Utilisation

Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani, Director-General of Perum Bulog, has called for innovations in processing rice husks into economically valuable products such as charcoal and other derivatives. The initiative aims to provide additional income opportunities for farmers and rice mill operators whilst promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly rice processing systems.

National Police Launch Operation Ketupat 13-25 March 2026

Indonesia's National Police (Polri) will conduct Operation Ketupat from 13-25 March 2026 to secure Lebaran holiday traffic movements, deploying 161,243 combined personnel across two waves of migration. The operation anticipates lower passenger volumes than 2025, with a projected decline of approximately 2.57 million people or 1.75 per cent, though authorities remain vigilant for potential field variations.

TNI-Polri Raids KKB Headquarters in Nabire, 10 Firearms and 561 Ammunition Rounds Seized

Combined TNI and Polri forces raided a headquarters belonging to an armed criminal group (KKB) led by Aibon Kogoya in Nabire Regency, Central Papua, seizing 10 firearms, 561 ammunition rounds, and approximately Rp 79.9 million in cash. The operation on 1 March 2026 involved a firefight after which the armed group fled, leaving behind weapons, communications equipment, and other logistics at the base.

Police Chief: Peak Eid Holiday Exodus and Return in 2026 Predicted to Occur Twice

Indonesia's National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo led a multi-sectoral coordination meeting to prepare for the smooth flow of the 2026 Eid holiday exodus (mudik) and return traffic. The police have predicted two peak periods for both outbound and return traffic, with the first outbound peak expected on 14-15 March and the second on 18-19 March, whilst the return peaks are anticipated on 24-25 March and 28-29 March.

Indonesian National Team Tickets for FIFA Series Now on Sale; What is the Cheapest Price?

Ticket sales for the FIFA Series 2026 tournament, which Indonesia is hosting, have opened from 2 March 2026. Semifinal and opening match tickets are priced from 150,000 to 750,000 Indonesian rupiah, whilst final match tickets range from 250,000 to 1 million rupiah. Indonesia's national team will face Saint Kitts and Nevis at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta on 27 March 2026, marking the tournament debut of new national team coach Jon Herdman.

MGPA enhances quality of MotoGP operations at Mandalika Circuit

The Mandalika Grand Prix Association (MGPA) attended the MotoGP event in Thailand as part of a strategic initiative to improve the quality of MotoGP operations at Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit in West Nusa Tenggara, scheduled for October 2026.

Constitutional Court: Material Test of Internet Quota Elimination Cannot Be Accepted

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has rejected a material test petition challenging provisions of the Job Creation Law (Law No. 6 of 2023) that allow telecommunications operators to unilaterally eliminate unused internet quotas from consumers. The court ruled that the petition, filed by Rachmad Rofik, failed to meet formal requirements for submission, specifically lacking required evidence and documentation as mandated by constitutional court procedures.

Government Delivers Enrekang Chilli to NTB to Drive Down Prices

The Indonesian government has airlifted 1.18 tonnes of red bird's eye chilli from Enrekang, South Sulawesi to Nusa Tenggara Barat via inter-island distribution to stabilise volatile chilli prices in the region. The National Food Agency (Bapanas) coordinated the initiative with price controls of Rp 58,000 per kilogram at the farm gate, subsidised transport costs, and monitored retail prices between Rp 68,000–73,000 per kilogram to ensure affordability whilst protecting farmer incomes.

Agriculture Minister ensures staple commodities nationally surplus ahead of Eid celebration

Indonesia's Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has confirmed that strategic staple commodity stocks are secure and surplus ahead of Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah, with adequate production and reserves to maintain stable food supply and prices. Current rice stocks stand at approximately 3.5 million tonnes and are projected to reach 6 million tonnes by month's end, with potential surpluses of around 9 million tonnes by year-end.

LPSK Reveals Mother of NS Received Threat Messages After Reporting Ex-Husband for Child's Murder

The Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) has disclosed that Lisnawati, mother of NS, received multiple threatening messages via SMS and WhatsApp after reporting her ex-husband as a suspect in her child's murder case in Sukabumi, West Java. The threats, which demanded she remain silent and not interfere, have caused Lisnawati severe depression, prompting LPSK to provide medical, psychological, and threat assessments.

Constitutional Court Revises "Obstruction of Justice" Clause to Prevent Misinterpretation

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has declared the phrase "directly or indirectly" in Article 21 of the Anti-Corruption Law unconstitutional and void, citing concerns that it enables arbitrary enforcement and excessive criminalisation. The court ruled that the vague language creates legal uncertainty and could choke freedom of expression, including legitimate activities by lawyers, journalists, and activists, requiring reform to align with international standards and Indonesia's new penal code.

Viral: Concert-goer Charged Rp 200,000 for Motorcycle Taxi Ride Agreed at Rp 20,000 at GBK

A concert attendee at Jakarta's Gelora Bung Karno stadium became the subject of a viral TikTok after being charged Rp 200,000 (approximately $12) for an informal motorcycle taxi ride home, despite agreeing to pay Rp 20,000 with the driver. The incident highlights ongoing issues with unregistered or informal transport operators exploiting consumers at major venues, raising questions about regulatory enforcement and consumer protection in Indonesia's informal ride-sharing sector.

Road Closed Again Following Two Large Potholes at Cipayung Bridge

Access to Jalan Kampung Kramat in East Jakarta's Cipayung district has been closed following the discovery of two substantial potholes near Cipayung Bridge, posing serious safety risks to motorists. The larger pothole spans 30-100 centimetres in width, extends four metres in length, and reaches three metres in depth, whilst the second measures 20-30 centimetres wide and extends six metres with one metre depth.

143.9 Million People Predicted to Travel for Eid 2026, Down from Previous Year

Indonesia's National Police Deputy Chief forecasts 143.9 million people will travel during the 2026 Eid holiday period, representing a 1.75 per cent decline from 146.4 million in 2025. The police will deploy over 161,000 personnel across a 13-day operation from 13 to 25 March 2026 to secure travel routes and vital infrastructure during the anticipated two-wave exodus and return migration.

Palace: Try Sutrisno Set an Example of How to Love One's Country

Former sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno has passed away at the age of 90, with State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi praising him as a figure who exemplified patriotism and commitment to the nation's founding principles. President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to lead the funeral procession from Masjid Sunda Kelapa to Kalibata Heroes Cemetery.

Constitutional Court Partially Grants Challenge to Article 21 of Anti-Corruption Law, Clarifies Bounds of Obstruction of Justice Provisions

Indonesia's Constitutional Court (MK) has partially granted a judicial review challenge to Article 21 of the Anti-Corruption Law (UU Tipikor), striking down the phrase "directly or indirectly" from obstruction of justice provisions. The Court determined that the contested phrase was unconstitutionally vague, creating excessive legal uncertainty and risking over-criminalisation of lawyers, journalists, academics, and activists exercising their constitutional rights.

Ministry of Environment Summons Bekasi Regency Administration Over Waste Management Responsibility

Indonesia's Ministry of Environment has announced plans to formally summon Bekasi Regency officials, including the Acting Regent Asep Surya Atmaja, to account for serious waste management issues in the region, which is Southeast Asia's largest industrial zone. The ministry will enforce the 2008 Waste Management Law whilst acknowledging the significant challenge of managing 2,250 tonnes of waste daily from a population of 3.3 million residents.

Breaking! Iran Reiterates It Will Not Negotiate with the US

Iran's Supreme National Security Council head Ali Larijani has categorically denied reports that Tehran was proposing negotiations with the United States through Omani intermediaries, stating Iran will not negotiate with the US.

Timeline of Child Abuse Leading to Death in Sukabumi According to Biological Mother

The biological mother of 12-year-old Nizam Sapei, who died allegedly from abuse by his stepmother in Sukabumi, West Java, presented the timeline of his death to Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III.

Alleged State Loss of Rp 1 Trillion Behind Two Public Works Directors' Resignations

Two Directors General of Indonesia's Ministry of Public Works (PU) have resigned in connection with investigations by the State Audit Board (BPK) into alleged state financial losses estimated at approximately Rp 1 trillion. Minister Dody Hanggodo stated that the resignations follow BPK findings initially valued at nearly Rp 3 trillion and subsequent recommendations for establishing an ad hoc committee and task teams to recover losses caused by third parties.

The Value of Indonesian Imports and Exports Through the Strait of Hormuz

Indonesia's trade through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical international commerce route connecting it with Middle Eastern nations including Iran, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates, totalled approximately US$6.8 billion in imports and exports during 2025. Indonesia imported US$2.1 billion in non-mineral goods from these three nations, primarily comprising precious metals, iron and steel, and organic fuels, whilst exporting US$4.

UN Report: Natural Radiation Exposure in Mamuju Reaches 9 Times Global Average

According to the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR) 2024 report, Mamuju in West Sulawesi has been classified as a High Natural Background Radiation Area (HNBRA), with annual effective doses reaching approximately 27 millisieverts (mSv) per year—nearly nine times the global average of 3.0 mSv.

Pertamina Launches Free Mudik Service for 2026 Return Journey - Check Schedule and Registration Details

PT Pertamina has announced its Mudik Bareng Pertamina 2026 programme, offering free travel services to support public mobility during the Eid al-Fitr holiday season. Registration opens on 3 March 2026 at 10:00 WIT via www.mudikpertamina2026.com, with departures scheduled for 15 March 2026 from Taman Mini Indonesia Indah in Jakarta to over 15 destinations across Java, plus return services from four cities on 28 March 2026.

Bali Named World's Best Destination 2026, Regional Government: Motivation to Improve Quality

Bali has been awarded the top destination by TripAdvisor's Travelers Choice Awards Best of the Best Destination List 2026, marking its highest ranking ever. The Bali regional government views the accolade as motivation to enhance service quality and strengthen sustainable tourism principles, whilst attracting more high-quality tourists through culture-based development programmes that benefit local communities and preserve the environment.

Strait of Hormuz Closed; Government Secures Non-Middle Eastern Oil Supply

Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating geopolitical tensions with the United States and Israel has disrupted global oil supply and raised energy prices worldwide. In response, the Indonesian government has proactively signed memoranda of understanding with major oil and gas companies from outside the Middle East, including agreements with Chevron and ExxonMobil through PT Pertamina, to diversify its crude oil imports and mitigate supply risks.

Pertamina Opens Free Mudik and Return Journey 2026, More Than 15 Cities. Note the Registration Date

PT Pertamina (Persero) has launched the Mudik Bareng Pertamina 2026 programme, offering free homecoming travel for more than 15 destinations across Java ahead of Eid al-Fitr 1447 H. Registration opens on 3 March 2026 at 10:00 WIB via www.mudikpertamina2026.com, with departures scheduled for 15 March 2026 from Taman Mini Indonesia Indah in Jakarta and return journeys on 28 March 2026.

Try Sutrisno Viewed by Former TNI Commander: True Patriot and Champion of the People

Former TNI Commander General (Ret.) Moeldoko has remembered Indonesia's sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno as an inspiring figure who exemplified patriotism and prioritised the people's interests over personal gain. Wiranto, the President's Special Adviser for Politics and Security, echoed this sentiment, noting Sutrisno's simplicity, constitutional loyalty, and unwavering commitment to defending truth and the public interest.

Indef: US-Israel-Iran Conflict Drives Up Indonesia's Logistics Costs

The Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (Indef) warns that escalating conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran in the Middle East threatens to raise Indonesia's national logistics costs through increased maritime transport expenses and potential energy supply disruptions.

Golkar Mourns Death of Try Sutrisno: A Cross-Generational Fighter

The Golkar Party has expressed deep condolences following the death of former Vice President Try Sutrisno on 2 March 2026, who was affiliated with the party during Indonesia's New Order era. The 90-year-old retired general, described as a cross-generational patriot who served the nation through various challenges, died from complications related to advanced age after being hospitalised at RSPAD Gatot Soebroto since 16 February.

Ramadan Beneath a Scorching Sky: Prayer, Tears, and the Hope of the Faithful

This reflective essay addresses the spiritual and psychological dimensions of Ramadan amid global uncertainty, particularly geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and economic volatility affecting Indonesian households.

US Military Uses Anthropic AI in Iran Strike Operations Despite Recent Ban

The US military has continued using Anthropic's Claude AI technology in operations against Iran, despite President Donald Trump recently issuing a ban on the technology. The prohibition included a six-month transition period, which the Pentagon is exploiting to maintain use of Claude for backend analytical tasks such as intelligence analysis, signal translation, and logistics optimisation, whilst the military seeks equivalent replacement systems.

Constitutional Court Rejects Parliamentary Threshold Test, Application Deemed Premature Pending DPR Revision

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has rejected a judicial review petition challenging the parliamentary threshold provisions in the Electoral Law, ruling the application premature since the DPR and government are actively revising the regulations in compliance with a previous court decision. The Kawal Pemilu and Demokrasi Indonesia organisations had sought to establish a maximum 2.

SBY, JK, and Boediono Attend Funeral of Try Sutrisno at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery

Former Presidents Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Vice Presidents Jusuf Kalla and Boediono attended the funeral of Indonesia's sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in Jakarta on Monday, 2 March 2026. Try Sutrisno, who died at age 90 at RSPAD Gatot Soebroto hospital, had been receiving treatment since 16 February due to loss of appetite, with his family attributing his death to natural causes related to advanced age rather than specific illness.

Jusuf Kalla Pays Tribute to Late Vice President Try Sutrisno as Major Contributor to the Nation

Vice President Jusuf Kalla has paid tribute to the late Try Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth vice president, describing him as a person of great character who made significant contributions to the nation. Try Sutrisno passed away on Monday, 2 March 2026, at RSPAD Gatot Subroto hospital at the age of 90, with his family attributing his death to age-related health decline rather than any specific illness.

Interior Examination of iCar V23, Functional Throughout

The iCar V23, one of Indonesia's most compelling electric SUVs, features a clean and modern interior design that prioritises functionality over excess ornamentation.

700,000 Tourists Expected to Flood Bandung During Eid Holiday Period

Bandung's Mayor Muhammad Farhan has predicted that between 600,000 and 700,000 tourists will visit the city during the 2026 Eid holiday period, straining traffic infrastructure across the region. The city is preparing enhanced security measures and identifying traffic hotspots, whilst also planning free mudik (homebound) transport services for Bandung residents travelling to nearby West Java destinations.

Traffic Police Chief Inspects Mudik Routes; ASDP Strengthens Services Ahead of Ramadan

Indonesia's National Traffic Police Chief Irjen Pol Agus Suryo Nugroho inspected ferry crossing readiness in Lampung and Banten ahead of the 2026 Ramadan exodus, surveying key ports and the heavily-trafficked Merak–Bakauheni route. PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry is bolstering capacity with a new port facility and implementing operational efficiencies, including a 100 per cent subsidy on terminal fees and single-tariff policies during peak travel periods to facilitate smoother inter-island transport.

Operating Again Until June 2026, Police Secure Suwung Landfill

Suwung landfill in Denpasar, Bali resumed operations on 2 March 2026 following a temporary closure implemented by the provincial government in accordance with the Ministry of Environment's directive to eliminate open dumping practices across the island. Coordinated by Bali's provincial government, Badung regency, and Denpasar city authorities, the landfill will continue operating until June 2026 whilst police maintain security to ensure orderly waste management and public safety.

Sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno Laid to Rest at Kalibata National Heroes Cemetery; President Prabowo Presides Over Ceremony

Sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno, who died at the age of 90, was laid to rest at Kalibata National Heroes Cemetery in Jakarta on Monday 2 March with full military honours. President Prabowo Subianto presided over the funeral ceremony, with Sutrisno interred in Block M131 alongside other national figures including third President B.J. Habibie. The deceased, a former ABRI Commander, received final military honours from troops representing all three branches of the Indonesian Armed Forces.

Commission XI Urges Government to Prepare Fiscal Scenarios for Iran Conflict Impact

The head of Indonesia's Commission XI in parliament has called on the government to immediately activate contingency fiscal scenarios and strengthen monetary stability in response to escalating military conflicts involving Iran, which could destabilise Indonesia's economy through higher oil prices and currency volatility.

Smuggling of 54,000 Lobster Larvae Worth Rp 1 Billion to Singapore via YIA Thwarted

Customs and security authorities at Yogyakarta International Airport successfully prevented the smuggling of 54,096 baby lobster (benur) larvae valued at approximately Rp 1.08 billion destined for Singapore through passenger channels. Two individuals have been arrested and face charges under fisheries and animal quarantine laws carrying sentences of up to eight years imprisonment and fines of up to Rp 500 million.

Foreign Nationals Stranded in Bali as Flights Disrupted by Iran Conflict

A conflict between the United States-Israel coalition and Iran has disrupted multiple international flights at Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport, leaving foreign tourists stranded with extended, unplanned stays. Passengers including Dutch honeymooners and a Kenyan tourist report cancelled flights and inadequate support from airlines, with alternative routes proving prohibitively expensive and routing through vulnerable Middle Eastern hubs.

Indonesia Floods with Australian Gold Jewellery Imports, Surging 634% in January 2026

Indonesia's imports of precious metals and jewellery from Australia surged 634.3% year-on-year in January 2026, accounting for 47.54% of total non-migas imports from Australia valued at US$507.59 million. The sharp increase in gold and jewellery imports has contributed to inflation in the precious metals sector, with gold and jewellery inflation reaching 8.42% year-on-year in February 2026, driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and rising gold prices that touched Rp 3.

Heated Hearing: Ahok Disputes When Questioned About LNG Purchases Before Commissioner Role

Former PT Pertamina Chief Commissioner Basuki Tjahaja Purnama (Ahok) engaged in a heated exchange with the lawyer for former PT Pertamina Gas Director Hari Karyuliarto during a corruption hearing at Jakarta's Corruption Court on 2 March 2026 regarding alleged irregularities in the purchase of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Corpus Christi Liquefaction.

Salvo and Marching Band Honour Arrival of Sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno's Casket at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery

Former sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno has been laid to rest with military honours at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in South Jakarta, with his coffin draped in the Indonesian flag and accompanied by TNI personnel firing ceremonial salvos. The 90-year-old passed away at RSPAD Gatot Soebroto Hospital on Monday morning, with President Prabowo Subianto serving as ceremony inspector during the full military funeral proceedings.

University of Indonesia Defends Student in Yellow Jacket Pointing at Police During Protest

The University of Indonesia (UI) Students Executive Board has clarified that a demonstrator in a yellow faculty jacket who was filmed pointing at police during a protest at National Police Headquarters in February 2026 is not a UI student, but rather an active student from Jakarta State Polytechnic (PNJ).

Soekarno-Hatta Airport Adjusts Schedule for 39 Middle East Route Flights

Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang has adjusted schedules for 39 flights on Middle East routes (20 arrivals and 19 departures) following regional conflict developments. The adjustments affect flights to Abu Dhabi, Doha, Dubai, Istanbul, Jeddah, and Madinah, with operations proceeding safely and orderly. Airlines, AirNav Indonesia, and security authorities are coordinating to manage affected passengers and monitor airspace conditions.

CPO and Nickel Lead Strong Early-Year Export Performance, Indonesia's Exports Surge to US$22.1 Billion

Indonesia's exports grew 3.39% year-on-year to US$22.16 billion in January 2026, driven primarily by refined product industries including crude palm oil (CPO), nickel, iron and steel, semiconductors, and vehicles. However, agriculture, forestry, and fisheries exports declined significantly by 20.36%, whilst mining exports fell 14.59%, according to the Indonesian Central Statistics Agency.

Constitutional Court Rejects Challenge to New Penal Code Articles on Enrichment and Benefiting Others

The Indonesian Constitutional Court rejected a request for material review of provisions in the 2001 Anti-Corruption Law and the 2023 Penal Code regarding enrichment and benefiting others, finding the challenge's petition formulation to be unclear and non-standard.

Food Supply Surplus Ahead of Eid, Amran Urges Public Not to Worry

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has assured the public that food supplies remain secure and prices stable ahead of Eid al-Fitr 2026, with government data showing major food commodities in surplus until April 2026. The government's rice reserve stocks have reached 3.5 million tonnes and are projected to exceed 6 million tonnes by month's end, whilst corn, sugar, chilies, and other staples also show healthy surpluses.

KPAI Classifies Death of Nizam as Filicide, Murder by Own Parents

The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has classified the death of 13-year-old Nizam Syafei from Sukabumi, West Java, as filicide—intentional murder of a child by their own parents. The KPAI commissioner reported that the boy suffered repeated beatings and slapping from both his biological father and stepmother over a four-year period, with the family and neighbours having warned the perpetrators without effect.

SPPGs warned against using ultra-processed food in free meal programme

Indonesian authorities have warned community kitchens (SPPGs) implementing the government's free meal programme (MBG) not to use ultra-processed foods, particularly for vulnerable groups including toddlers, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers. The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is intensifying oversight of food quality and safety, having suspended 47 SPPGs for failing to meet nutritional standards, whilst expanding the programme to cover 82.

Bitbromo Officially Withdraws from Crypto Exchange Membership

PT Everest Kripto Indonesia (Bitbromo) has officially withdrawn its membership from Indonesia's national crypto asset exchanges, including CFX, KKI, and ICC, following failure to obtain operational licensing from the Financial Services Authority (OJK) as a Digital Financial Asset Trader. The company cited the need to align operations with applicable cryptocurrency industry regulations and stated it remains committed to proper corporate governance while exploring strategic options for its future in the digital assets sector.

Late Vice President Try Sutrisno Buried at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery This Afternoon

Indonesia's sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno was laid to rest at Taman Makam Pahlawan (Kalibata Heroes Cemetery) in South Jakarta with full military honours. The retired General, who passed away on Monday morning at the Armed Forces Central Hospital (RSPAD) at 6:58 a.m., was buried in a location near the graves of other prominent national figures including former First Lady Ani Yudhoyono and former President Habibie.

Heat Exposure During Pregnancy Triggers Decline in Male Births—What's the Cause?

A major study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has found that heat exposure during pregnancy is linked to declining rates of male births across large regions of Africa and India. Researchers attribute this to biological vulnerability of male foetuses, which require greater energy and oxygen, combined with reduced healthcare access during extreme heat in developing regions.

Israel Targets Weakening of Iranian Regime as Trump Claims 48 Leaders Killed

Israel and the United States launched a major military operation against Iran on Saturday, with unnamed Israeli officials stating the goal is to weaken the Tehran regime to the point of collapse, whilst US President Donald Trump claimed 48 Iranian leaders were killed in the combined strike.

Hormuz Strait Ablaze: Three Ships Hit by Missiles, Iran's Account

Three vessels were reportedly attacked in the Strait of Hormuz on 1 March 2026 during Iran's second wave of strikes in response to US and Israeli air operations. The attacks, which caused fires on tankers transiting one of the world's most critical oil shipping routes, resulted in conflicting casualty reports, with Iran's state television claiming one oil tanker was sinking whilst international maritime authorities stated all crews remained safe.

Prabowo to Lead Military Funeral Ceremony for Sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno

President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to lead the state military funeral ceremony for Indonesia's sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno at the Heroes Cemetery in South Jakarta on Monday. Sutrisno, who served as Vice President under President Suharto, passed away on Monday morning at the Armed Forces Central Hospital at the age of 90.

Iran-US-Israel Conflict: PBNU Instructs Nahdliyin to Recite Qunut Nazilah at Every Prayer

Indonesia's Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), the nation's largest Islamic organisation, has issued an instruction to all members to recite Qunut Nazilah (a supplication for times of crisis) during every obligatory prayer in response to escalating Middle East conflicts involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.

Government thwarts 1.38 kg pangolin scale illegal trade in West Kalimantan

Indonesian law enforcement detained a suspect with 1.38 kg of pangolin scales in West Kalimantan's Sintang District following a public tip-off, with investigators finding the suspect had joined a pangolin trading network via social media.

Expedition Company Employees in Sunter to be Questioned Over Alleged Embezzlement and Theft

Jakarta police have announced plans to question employees of an expedition company following allegations of embezzlement and theft that emerged alongside claims of employee detention in Sunter, Tanjung Priok. The case has split into two separate investigations: one regarding alleged false imprisonment being handled by Tanjung Priok Police Station, and another concerning alleged embezzlement and fraud being investigated by North Jakarta Metropolitan Police.

Middle East Tensions: Umrah Travel Agents Urged to Coordinate with Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and Purwakarta Umrah Office

Following escalating tensions in the Middle East after Israeli and American strikes on Iran, Indonesian authorities are tightening coordination with umrah travel agents to ensure the safety of pilgrims departing from Purwakarta.

Umrah Disrupted by Middle East Conflict Escalation; Asphirasi Calls for Firm Government Stance

The Alliance of Indonesian Hajj and Umrah Organisers (Asphirasi) has called for decisive government action following the escalation of conflict in the Middle East between Iran, the United States, and Israel, which has disrupted umrah travel arrangements. Whilst direct flights to Saudi Arabia remain operational, transit flights through carriers such as Qatar Airways and Emirates have been cancelled or suspended, leaving many pilgrims stranded abroad or unable to depart.

As Eid Approaches, Agriculture Minister Assures Basic Commodity Needs Secure Nationwide and Regionally

Indonesia's government has confirmed that supplies of essential commodities are stable and secure ahead of Eid al-Fitr 2026, with most strategic goods in surplus position. Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman reported that national rice stocks stand at approximately 3.5 million tonnes with projections to reach 6 million tonnes by month's end, while other key commodities such as maize, cooking oil, poultry, and eggs also show substantial surpluses.

Nine Free Toll Road Sections for Eid Holiday 2026: Complete List of Routes and Vehicle Requirements

The Indonesian Ministry of Public Works has officially announced nine functional toll road sections that will be made available free of charge during the Eid 2026 holiday period to facilitate traffic flow and reduce congestion. These functional toll roads will be limited to Class I non-bus vehicles with speed restrictions of 40-60 km/h, whilst the government will also offer a 30% discount on tolls for fully operational sections from nine days before Eid.

Police confirm domestic worker abuse video from Sunter occurred in 2023

Police in North Jakarta have confirmed that a viral social media video showing a homeowner assaulting a domestic worker occurred in February 2023, nearly three years prior to its circulation. The 42-year-old suspect allegedly beat and kicked the 57-year-old victim over a misunderstanding whilst she was cleaning a prayer space in his home, though both parties subsequently reconciled and the victim declined to file an official report as she remains employed at the household.

Luxury Apartment Becomes Drug Den; Ko Erwin's Right-Hand Man Arrested as 'The Doctor' Remains at Large

Indonesian police have arrested two suspects, Charles Bernando and Arfan Yulias Lauw, in connection with a methamphetamine trafficking network linked to Erwin Iskandar (Ko Erwin), with a luxury apartment in Tokyo Riverside Tower serving as a distribution point.

Commander-in-Chief receives Try Sutrisno's remains for military burial

General Agus Subiyanto, the Commander-in-Chief of the Indonesian Armed Forces, received the remains of former Vice President Try Sutrisno at Sunda Kelapa Mosque in Central Jakarta on Monday for military burial rites. Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth Vice President, passed away at the Armed Forces Central Hospital (RSPAD) Gatot Soebroto on Monday morning at approximately 07:00 WIB.

Police ensure Nabire residents are safe following armed criminal group disturbances

Police and military in Nabire, Central Papua, have intensified patrols and security measures following attacks by an armed criminal group (KKB), with local authorities assuring residents that the situation remains under control and normal activities can continue.

BPJS Health Contributions for 650,000 Low-Income Residents in Central Kalimantan Covered by Provincial Government

The Central Kalimantan Provincial Government has implemented a social protection policy to cover BPJS Health insurance premiums for approximately 650,000 low-income residents, ensuring vulnerable populations have access to medical services without financial barriers. Governor Agustiar Sabran has instructed regional administrations not to reduce health budgets during fiscal efficiency drives, emphasising that healthcare is a fundamental public need.

From Steel to Nickel, Indonesia's Exports to China Reach US$5.27 Billion in January 2026

Indonesia recorded a trade surplus of US$0.95 billion in January 2026, marking its 69th consecutive monthly surplus since May 2021, with non-petroleum exports reaching US$21.20 billion. China remained Indonesia's largest export market at US$5.27 billion (24.80 per cent of total), followed by the United States and India, with exports dominated by iron and steel, nickel products, and mineral fuels.

Viral Video of Alleged Sexual Assault of Disabled Woman in Bogor Under Police Investigation

A video recording has gone viral on social media depicting an alleged sexual assault of a disabled woman by her neighbour in Citereup, Bogor, West Java. The Bogor Police Department confirmed that a report has been filed and the investigation has progressed to the prosecution stage, with the suspected perpetrator to be formally charged within the coming days.

Airline Shares Collapse Amid Iran-US Conflict

Asian airline stocks led market declines on Monday as Middle East airspace disruptions and airport closures stemming from escalating Iran-US tensions disrupted travel sector operations. Oil prices surged approximately 4% following the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and renewed US military operations, with WTI crude at US$69.68 and Brent at US$76.13 per barrel, whilst energy stocks and safe-haven assets gained as investors sought protection against geopolitical volatility.

Try Sutrisno Dies, Governor Khofifah Instructs East Java to Raise Flag to Half-Mast

Former Vice President Try Sutrisno, a retired four-star general who served as TNI Commander and Vice President from 1993-1998, has passed away. East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa announced condolences and instructed the province to fly the Indonesian flag at half-mast for two consecutive days as a mark of national mourning, in accordance with Indonesian law on state symbols.

Following Funeral Prayer, Body of Try Sutrisno Sent to Kalibata National Heroes Cemetery

Try Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth Vice President, has been laid to rest at Kalibata National Heroes Cemetery following a funeral prayer at the Grand Sunda Kelapa Mosque in Jakarta. Sutrisno, who passed away at the age of 90 at RSPAD Gatot Subroto hospital on Monday 2 March, was accorded full state honours with his funeral attended by senior military officials including Armed Forces Commander General Agus Subiyanto.

Ministry of Education Opens Opportunity for Schools to Nominate Indonesia Smart Programme Recipients

The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) is proposing a new policy that would allow schools to nominate recipients for the Indonesia Smart Programme (PIP) educational financing assistance starting in 2026. The proposal aims to improve accountability and effectiveness in fund distribution, as approximately 20 million students currently receive the aid but some remain unaware of their eligibility, resulting in unclaimed funds reverting to the state treasury.

Government Has Not Yet Decided on Evacuation of Indonesian Citizens from Iran

The Indonesian government has not yet made a decision to evacuate its nationals from Iran, with 329 registered Indonesian citizens currently confirmed to be in good condition and with no reports of direct physical harm or security threats. Indonesia's Ambassador Roy Soemirat stated that any evacuation decision would be determined solely by the central government in Jakarta based on comprehensive risk assessment and would prioritise safety over speed.

US Intelligence Finds No Evidence of Iranian Attack Plans

US Pentagon officials briefed senior Congressional staff on military operations against Iran, with intelligence sources indicating no evidence of planned Iranian attacks on US forces—contradicting earlier statements from senior administration officials.

Preparations for Eid 2026 Exodus: Guide to EV Charging Stations Along Trans Java Toll

As Indonesia prepares for the 2026 Eid exodus, electric vehicle users must plan carefully for charging station availability along the Trans Java Toll road. PLN has committed to upgrading charging units from 22-40 kW capacity to 180 kW to reduce waiting times, with 53 rest areas across the toll road currently equipped with charging facilities ranging from standard AC to fast DC charging.

Verdict Hearing in Australian Citizen Homicide Case Postponed, Victim's Family Disappointed

The Denpasar District Court postponed the verdict hearing for three Australian defendants accused of shooting an Australian citizen, Zivan Radmanovic, in a villa in Canggu, Bali, citing the need for longer deliberation time. The victim's family, who travelled from abroad and waited three hours for the hearing, expressed disappointment over the delay, with the verdict now rescheduled for 9 March 2026.

Remembering Try Sutrisno: Yusril Pays Tribute to Principled Statesman

Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Penitentiaries Yusril Ihza Mahendra has paid tribute to former Vice President Try Sutrisno, who passed away at age 90, describing him as a humble yet principled statesman committed to Indonesia's constitution and national future.

Indonesia Posts Trade Surplus with US in January 2026, but Deficit Against China

Indonesia maintained a trade surplus of US$960 million in January 2026, extending its consecutive surplus streak to 69 months, driven primarily by surpluses with the United States (US$1.55 billion), India (US$1.07 billion), and the Philippines. However, Indonesia recorded significant trade deficits with China (US$2.47 billion), Australia (US$960 million), and France (US$470 million), with China being the largest deficit contributor.

Strengthening Food Supply Chains Key to Safeguarding Free Nutritious Meals Programme Quality

Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, targeting 82.9 million beneficiaries from early childhood through secondary education plus pregnant and nursing mothers, faces serious supply chain challenges following multiple mass poisoning incidents. Experts emphasise that strengthening logistics systems, raw material quality control, cold chain infrastructure, and food processing standards are critical to ensuring programme success and maintaining public trust.

Thief Breaks into Pawn Shop in Depok, Flees via Roof When Intercepted by Police

Police responded to an attempted theft at a pawn shop in Pancoran Mas, Depok, after receiving reports from the owner who was monitoring the perpetrator via CCTV. The suspect broke into the shop on Sunday and escaped through the roof when police arrived, causing damage to the ceiling and asbestos roof panels but failing to steal any valuables which remained secured in the safe.

Airlangga warns that US-Iran conflict disrupts global oil supply

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has warned that escalating tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran are disrupting global oil supplies and driving up world energy prices, particularly following Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Pledoi Hearing: Delpedro Recounts the Story of Justice in the Time of Prophet Sulaiman

Delpedro Marhaen, director of the Lokataru Foundation, delivered a pledoi (closing defence statement) at Jakarta Central District Court referencing the Quranic story of Prophet Sulaiman's judgment between two mothers disputing a child, arguing that true justice requires deeper wisdom beyond surface-level claims.

GoTo Clarifies Google Investment, Confirms Nadiem No Longer Involved Since Becoming Minister

PT GoTo Gojek Tokopedia has clarified that founder Nadiem Makarim has had no involvement in the company's decision-making since October 2019, when he was appointed Minister of Education, Culture, Research and Technology, and that his voting rights were delegated to co-founders. The company emphasised that Google's investments, which began in 2017, were conducted professionally and transparently, with most occurring before 2019, and that no special treatment or majority shareholding was granted to Google.

Condet Main Road Excavation Project Still Incomplete, Causing Morning and Evening Traffic Jams

Road excavation work along Jalan Raya Condet in East Jakarta has exceeded its original completion deadline of early March 2026, continuing to cause significant traffic congestion during peak morning and evening hours. Residents and commuters have expressed frustration over the ongoing disruptions and poor road surface conditions, with some excavation points still visible and heavy equipment actively operating at multiple locations.

Cryptocurrency Boom and Moral Hazard: Testing the Resilience of AML-CFT Regime

Indonesia's cryptocurrency market has grown dramatically, with 22.11 million investors and Rp556.53 trillion in transactions as of November 2024, creating significant regulatory and governance challenges. The rapid expansion has exposed vulnerabilities in the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing (AML-CFT) regime, including information asymmetries, regulatory arbitrage, and inadequate know-your-customer procedures.

Fibroids and Adenomyosis Threaten Reproductive-Age Women, Many Asymptomatic

Fibroids and adenomyosis are common reproductive health conditions affecting 30–60 per cent of reproductive-age women in Indonesia, yet approximately 25 per cent of fibroid sufferers experience no symptoms, making early detection through routine medical check-ups crucial.

Lebanese Prime Minister Condemns Rocket Attack; Israel Launches Retaliatory Strike

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has condemned rocket attacks launched from southern Lebanon, warning that such actions endanger Lebanese civilians and could provide Israel with justification to expand its military operations. The attacks, claimed by the Hizbullah group, prompted the Israeli Defence Forces to launch retaliatory strikes targeting Hizbullah positions, with military officials urging southern Lebanese residents to evacuate immediately for their safety.

Vivo to launch V70 and V70 FE in Indonesia

Vivo has officially confirmed the arrival of its V70 series smartphones in Indonesia, comprising two models: the vivo V70 and vivo V70 FE, which feature advanced portrait photography capabilities and a collaboration with POP MART. The new series offers a 7000 mAh battery with 90W FlashCharge support, OriginOS 6 operating system, and AI-powered creative features including AI Stage Mode and AI Travel Portrait, launching on 9 March 2026.

Official Family Transfers Body of Try Sutrisno to State

The family of Try Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth Vice President, formally transferred his body to the state during a military ceremony at the Grand Mosque of Sunda Kelapa in central Jakarta on Monday, 2 March 2026. The ceremony, conducted after funeral prayers, involved military honours and the acceptance of the deceased by Indonesian Armed Forces Commander General Agus Subiyanto on behalf of the government.

Golkar: Indonesia Must Rally International Forces to Stop US-Israeli War with Iran

Indonesia's Golkar Party has expressed deep concern over military attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran, which have escalated into open warfare causing civilian casualties, including the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

851 Boreholes Operational, Supporting Ramadan Worship After Sumatra Floods

The Indonesian government has completed 851 boreholes across three Sumatran provinces affected by recent floods, with a further 356 under construction, as part of post-disaster rehabilitation efforts. The multi-agency initiative—coordinated by the Public Works Ministry, National Disaster Agency (BNPB), and Armed Forces—prioritises water access to places of worship to support community needs during Ramadan.

DPR Commission VII urges government to anticipate Strait of Hormuz closure impact

Vice-Chairman of Indonesia's DPR Commission VII has called on the government to prepare for potential economic disruptions from the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route, amid heightened tensions between Iran and US-Israel coalition forces. The closure could significantly disrupt Indonesia's imports of crude oil and increase logistics costs across multiple economic sectors, potentially adding approximately IDR 10.

The Death of Khamenei, the Rise of Turkey, and the Future of Palestine

The assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in February 2026, coupled with the regime change in Syria in December 2024 and Turkey's growing regional influence under Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, has reshapen the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. These developments raise critical questions about whether they advance or hinder the Palestinian cause, as regional power dynamics increasingly overshadow the humanitarian dimensions of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Emirates, Etihad and Qatar Airways Cancel Flights to and from Bali Airport

Escalating conflict in the Iran-Middle East region has prompted several countries to close their airspace, resulting in 15 international flight cancellations at Bali's I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, comprising 8 departures and 7 arrivals. The cancellations affect 3,197 passengers from Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways, with airport authorities coordinating with airlines and security agencies to manage the situation and maintain normal operations.

KPAI Urges Child Care Bill to Be Passed Urgently

The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has called for urgent passage of the Child Care Bill to address widespread violence against children, citing recurring "sarong war" incidents during Ramadan as a symptom of deeper social problems including family breakdown, economic vulnerability, and school dropout rates. Police across multiple Indonesian regions have recently intervened to prevent such incidents, underscoring the need for comprehensive legislative action.

Estimated Cost of Mudik Using BYD M6 from Jakarta to Semarang

A practical cost analysis of using the BYD M6, Indonesia's first electric MPV, for the popular mudik (homecoming) journey from Jakarta to Semarang reveals total fuel and toll costs of approximately IDR 713,500. The study found the vehicle consumed 25.9 kWh per 100 kilometres, allowing full-battery charging at home to potentially cover the entire journey without intermediate charging stops.

Employer Arrested for Assaulting Domestic Worker in North Jakarta, Triggered by Alleged Defilement of Place of Worship

Police have revealed that an employer in Sunter Agung, North Jakarta, assaulted a domestic worker after the latter allegedly soiled the employer's place of worship, with the incident reported to have occurred in 2023. Despite the violent assault involving punching and kicking, the victim subsequently forgave the perpetrator and continues to work for the same employer.

Iran Conflict Disrupts Strait of Hormuz, Global Commodity Supply Chain Threatened

Military conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran in late February 2026 has triggered significant disruptions to global energy markets, with particular concern centring on the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, through which over 90 per cent of Gulf oil exports and more than 20 per cent of global liquefied natural gas trade flows.

Master of Management Programme at FEB UI Achieves AMBA Reaccreditation to Strengthen Global Reputation

The Master of Management programme at the Faculty of Economics and Business at the University of Indonesia (MM FEB UI) has officially regained international accreditation from the Association of MBAs (AMBA) for the next five-year period, following an assessment visit in November 2025.

Ferry Irwandi's Debut Book Presents Financial Literacy in More Accessible Format

Content creator and Malaka Project co-founder Ferry Irwandi has published "Prinsipil Ekonomi" (Principles of Economics), a debut book that simplifies basic economic concepts for general readers without requiring specialised educational backgrounds.

2027 IIMS Motor Show Scheduled for Post-Ramadan Period

Indonesia's Indonesian International Motor Show (IIMS) will be held from 6-16 May 2027, shifting back to a mid-year schedule after previously being held in early January. The organisers believe the post-Ramadan timing will stabilise consumer purchasing power and maintain market momentum, with the 2026 edition achieving transaction values of Rp 8.7 trillion.

SMESCO Indonesia and HIPMI Central Jakarta Hold Local Market Event to Empower SMEs

SMESCO Indonesia collaborated with HIPMI Central Jakarta to organise Raya Local Market Vol. 1 from 26-28 February 2026, featuring 62 curated SME tenants with over 150 local brands and more than 20 educational sessions. The event aimed to strengthen SME capacity, expand market access, and build business networks through promotional activities and knowledge-sharing initiatives, with support from the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (UMKM).

Iran Closes Strait of Hormuz: Here's the Impact on Indonesia

Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz in response to the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei threatens to disrupt 20% of global oil supplies, potentially driving crude prices to USD 100-120 per barrel.

Cap Go Meh Festival in SCBD: A Symbol of Indonesia's Harmonious Diversity

The Cap Go Meh Festival 2026, held in Jakarta's Sudirman Central Business District, celebrates Lunar New Year under the theme "Ride to Luck" as a symbol of cultural harmony and Indonesia's diversity. The festival, postponed from its traditional date of 3 March to 1 March to align with special events held since 16–17 February, integrates Chinese, Betawinese, and Islamic cultural elements to emphasise unity and shared prosperity.

Constitutional Court Rejects Hasto's Challenge to Obstruction of Justice Clause in Corruption Law, Finding No Reviewable Object

The Constitutional Court (MK) has rejected a petition filed by PDI Perjuangan Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto challenging the constitutionality of Article 21 of the Corruption Law regarding obstruction of justice provisions. The court ruled the petition inadmissible on the ground that the legal object has already been eliminated by a previous court decision declaring the phrase "directly or indirectly" unconstitutional, leaving no substantive norm to review.

Second Week of Ramadan: Chilli Prices in Bima Surge to IDR 100,000 per Kilogramme

West Nusa Tenggara Deputy Governor Indah Dhamayanti Putri conducted a surprise inspection of Bima City market during the second week of Ramadan, finding that whilst most basic commodities remained stable, chilli prices had surged from IDR 70,000 to IDR 100,000 per kilogramme. The price increase, attributed to minimal production alongside high demand, was reported as less severe in Bima compared to other regions across West Nusa Tenggara, with supplies remaining controlled despite the sharp rise.

Indonesia Trade Balance Surplus US$0.95 Billion in January

Indonesia recorded a trade balance surplus of US$0.95 billion in January 2026, marking the 69th consecutive month of surplus since May 2020. The surplus was primarily driven by non-mineral commodities, which contributed US$3.22 billion, whilst mineral and energy commodities recorded a deficit of US$2.27 billion. Exports grew 3.39 per cent year-on-year to US$22.16 billion, though imports surged 18.21 per cent to US$21.20 billion.

Muhammad Suryo, HS Cigarette Owner, Involved in Kulon Progo Accident

Muhammad Suryo, CEO of Surya Group Holding Company and owner of the rapidly expanding HS cigarette brand, has been involved in a fatal motorcycle accident in Kulon Progo, resulting in the death of his wife. Suryo, a Lampung-born entrepreneur who built his business empire from scratch across multiple sectors including real estate, oil and gas, and aviation, was reportedly undergoing intensive medical treatment following the tragedy.

Extortion Remains a Problem in the Implementation of Indonesia Pintar Programme

The Head of the Education Financing Service Centre at the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has revealed that extortion (pungli) remains a persistent problem in the implementation of Indonesia Pintar (Smart Indonesia), a government programme providing financial assistance to poor students. The official highlighted that victims often refuse to report such incidents to law enforcement due to cultural reluctance to create additional problems for their already struggling families.

Britain prepares to evacuate 94,000 citizens from the Middle East

Britain is preparing to evacuate at least 94,000 British nationals from the Middle East who have registered their contact details with the Foreign Office amid escalating regional tensions. The evacuation effort, led by Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, represents an unprecedented operation and involves negotiations with major Arab airlines.

LPSK Reveals Child NS's Father in Sukabumi Is Gang Member During Parliament Meeting

The Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) disclosed during a parliamentary hearing that the father of child NS, who died in Sukabumi under alleged abuse by his stepmother, is a gang member and has repeatedly threatened the child's mother. LPSK urged police to investigate the father's background, citing evidence of prolonged domestic violence against both the child and his mother since early childhood, including burning, water torture, and forced bathing.

Farmer Welfare Improves as Farmer Exchange Rate Surges 1.50% to 125.45 in February 2026

Indonesia's Farmer Exchange Rate (NTP) reached 125.45 in February 2026, rising 1.50% from the previous month due to prices received by farmers increasing 2.17% whilst costs paid by farmers rose only 0.65%. East Java province experienced the strongest NTP growth at 5.46%, whilst West Sulawesi recorded the steepest decline at 3.75%, and the agricultural household business exchange rate (NTUP) increased 2.02% to 130.74.

NATO Responds to Iran's Retaliatory Attack Against US-Israel, War Widening?

NATO's top commander in Europe said the alliance is carefully monitoring developments in Iran and the Middle East and will adjust force posture to defend against potential threats including ballistic missiles and unmanned aircraft.

PSI Remembers Try Sutrisno's Dedication: A Modest yet Firm Figure

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has expressed deep condolences on the passing of Indonesia's sixth Vice President, Try Sutrisno, who died on Monday, 2 March 2026 at RSPAD Gatot Subroto military hospital. PSI Secretary General Raja Juli Antoni praised Sutrisno as a modest yet firm national figure whose unwavering commitment to national unity and integrity would continue to inspire the Indonesian people.

Viral Video Shows Domestic Worker Abused by Employer's Family in Sunter

A video showing a domestic worker (ART) being beaten and kicked by members of an employer's family in Sunter, North Jakarta has gone viral on social media. The incident allegedly occurred in February 2023 when the domestic worker, identified as SY (57), placed bamboo in the employer's place of worship; whilst both parties claimed reconciliation at the time, the case remains under investigation by Jakarta North Metro Police's Women, Children and Human Trafficking Protection Unit.

Police arrest intermediary and methamphetamine supplier in Koko Erwin drug network

Indonesia's National Police Directorate of Narcotics Crime has arrested two individuals—Arfan Yulius Lauw and Charles Bernando—for their roles as supplier and intermediary in the drug trafficking network of suspected major trafficker Erwin Iskandar, alias Koko Erwin. The investigation reveals multiple methamphetamine transactions totalling 5 kilograms worth 800 million rupiah between January and February 2026, with the drugs being distributed across Surabaya and Bima, East Nusa Tenggara.

Ministry of Industry Facilitates SME Entrepreneurs Through Self-Declared TKDN Certification

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry has introduced a self-declaration mechanism for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to obtain domestic content level (TKDN) certificates at no cost and with faster processing times. The new scheme, formalised through ministerial regulation, aims to make the certification process more transparent and accessible while maintaining oversight through data validation.

Eddy Soeparno: Carbon Economy Development Is On The Right Track

Vice Chair of the Indonesian People's Consultative Assembly Eddy Soeparno stated that Indonesia's carbon industry development is progressing appropriately following Presidential Regulation 110 of 2025 on carbon economic value. Multiple carbon projects are prepared for launch pending the establishment of a carbon trading ecosystem, particularly the Carbon Unit Registration System (SRUK) being developed by the Environment Ministry and the Financial Services Authority.

Khofifah Describes Try Sutrisno as a True Soldier and Statesman

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has paid tribute to retired General Try Sutrisno, the sixth Vice President of Indonesia (1993-1998) and former Commander of the Armed Forces, following his death, describing him as a true soldier and statesman dedicated to safeguarding Indonesian sovereignty and national unity.

Explosions heard again in Abu Dhabi; Indonesian Ambassador urges citizens to take shelter

Loud explosions and sounds of fighter jets were heard in Abu Dhabi on Monday morning, 2 March, triggering emergency sirens and heightened security measures. The Indonesian Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, Judha Nugraha, has issued an official advisory urging all Indonesian citizens in Abu Dhabi and surrounding areas to remain calm, take shelter indoors, avoid windows, and refrain from outdoor activities until the situation is declared safe.

Israel Focuses on Pushing Iranian Citizens onto Streets to Overthrow Regime

The Israeli government is pursuing a concerted effort to encourage Iranian citizens to take to the streets and topple their government following joint Israeli-American bombardment of Iranian targets on 28 February. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump have issued direct appeals to the Iranian public to seize the moment and oust the regime, with Netanyahu urging millions to "take to the streets" whilst framing this as a generational opportunity for change.

Millions of Umrah Pilgrims Stranded in Saudi Arabia Amid Regional Tensions

Millions of umrah pilgrims, including approximately 58,873 Indonesian citizens, remain stranded in Saudi Arabia as airspace closures across Middle Eastern nations follow US-Israeli military actions against Iran, forcing over 20 airlines to cancel flights to and from the region. The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is closely monitoring the situation and has advised citizens to postpone umrah travel plans in the near term due to escalating tensions and security uncertainties.

9,400 Umrah Pilgrims from East Java Stranded in Saudi Arabia amid Iran-Israel-US Conflict

Approximately 9,400 umrah (minor pilgrimage) pilgrims from East Java, Indonesia have been stranded in Saudi Arabia due to escalating tensions between Iran, Israel and the United States in recent days. The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs' East Java office cited flight route adjustments and safety considerations from Saudi authorities for the delayed repatriations, while assuring that all pilgrims remain safe under the supervision of umrah travel organisers.

Heightening Middle East Conflict Prompts Pertamina to Strengthen Energy Supply Mitigation and Stability Measures

Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East between the United States, Israel, and Iran, PT Pertamina is intensifying mitigation strategies and monitoring of its operations in the region to ensure stable energy supplies for Indonesia.

BPOM Obtains WHO Listed Authority Status, Here is the Strategy of the Pharmaceutical Industry

The Indonesian pharmaceutical industry has celebrated the Indonesian Drug and Food Supervisory Agency (BPOM) obtaining WHO Listed Authority (WLA) status, positioning it on par with leading regulatory authorities in developed nations. Industry executives from major pharmaceutical companies see this as a turning point for market expansion, technology transfer, and establishing Indonesia as a credible vaccine supplier globally, particularly as a G20 member nation.

Pertamina Faces Geopolitical Risks in Middle East Operations Over Iran-Israel Tensions

Indonesia's state-owned oil company Pertamina is intensifying monitoring of its Middle East operations in response to escalating geopolitical tensions between Iran and Israel, particularly affecting its oil assets in Iraq.

Ahok Reveals LNG Import Management but No Buyer Commitment Contracts in Place

Former Pertamina Chairman Basuki Tjahaja Purnama (Ahok) testified as a witness in a corruption trial regarding liquefied natural gas (LNG) procurement, revealing that whilst management had plans to import LNG, no buyer commitment contracts were in place. Prosecutors have indicted two former Pertamina directors, alleging they enriched themselves and a foreign corporation whilst causing state losses of USD 113.

Joint security forces seize 561 rounds of ammunition belonging to armed criminal group led by Aibon Kogoya

A combined Indonesian military and police task force has secured 561 rounds of ammunition of various calibres from an armed criminal group (KKB) led by Aibon Kogoya following a firefight in Papua on 1 March. The joint operation also resulted in the seizure of the group's headquarters, along with 12 mobile phones, five walkie-talkies, rifles, magazines and approximately Rp79.9 million in cash.

Try Sutrisno Hospitalised at RSPAD Gatot Soebroto Since 16 February 2026

Former Indonesian Vice President General (retired) Try Sutrisno, the sixth Vice President of Indonesia, passed away on Monday, 2 March 2026, at RSPAD Gatot Soebroto military hospital in Jakarta, after receiving treatment there since 16 February 2026. His son, Taufik Dwi Cahyono, indicated that Try Sutrisno's health had deteriorated suddenly, with his condition worsening despite medical intervention, describing his father's death as natural given his advanced age.

EU calls for restraint over developments in Iran and Middle East

The European Union has called for maximum restraint from all parties regarding developments in Iran and the Middle East, emphasising the protection of civilians and adherence to international law. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warned that the region risks substantial damage from prolonged conflict and stressed the importance of continued diplomatic efforts to prevent Iranian nuclear proliferation, whilst cautioning against disruptions to critical waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz.

Puan Maharani's Memories of the Late Try Sutrisno

House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has paid condolences following the death of former Vice President Try Sutrisno, who passed away at age 90 on 2 March 2026. Puan recalled meeting the retired TNI general at the House's annual session in Jakarta in August 2025, describing him as a warm and humble figure who served as a role model across generations. She expressed hope that future generations would continue Try Sutrisno's legacy and contributions to the nation.

Children of Try Sutrisno Carry Father's Coffin, Fulfilling Final Wish Before Passing

Retired General Try Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth Vice President, has passed away at RSPAD Gatot Subroto hospital at the age of 90. Before his death, Sutrisno requested that his children carry his coffin, a final wish they fulfilled during the funeral prayer at the Grand Mosque of Sunda Kelapa before the coffin was handed over to the state.

BPJPH expands international halal recognition with three countries

Indonesia's Halal Product Guarantee Board (BPJPH) has signed recognition agreements with halal certification bodies in the Philippines, Mexico, and China to strengthen international harmonisation of halal standards and streamline cross-border trade. These mutual recognition agreements will reduce export-import procedures, lower costs, and enhance the competitiveness of Indonesian halal industry products in global markets.

Daughter Discovers Father Dead and Mother Critical After Waking for Dawn Meal in Bekasi

Police in Bekasi are investigating a suspected murder in which a 65-year-old man (EU) was killed and his 60-year-old wife (PW) left critically injured at a residential complex in Jatibening. The discovery was made on Monday (2 March 2026) when the couple's daughter awoke for the pre-dawn meal (sahur) and found them both severely injured, with initial evidence suggesting both victims were struck on the back of the head with a blunt object.

Constitutional Court Rejects Ramos Challenge Over Interfaith Marriage Registration

The Constitutional Court rejected a challenge brought by E Ramos Petege against Law No. 23 of 2006 on Population Administration, ruling that the petitioner had not demonstrated constitutional harm. Ramos had challenged provisions that prevent the registration of interfaith marriages between individuals of different religions, arguing that the law violated constitutional rights and seeking clarification that marriage registration is an administrative matter rather than religious validation.

The Surge in Shop Openings at Shopping Malls Ahead of Ramadan: A Strategic Business Move

Indonesian retailers are strategically opening new stores and pop-up shops in shopping malls ahead of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, capitalizing on the period's significant surge in consumer spending.

J&T Express Reports Police Complaint Regarding Alleged Embezzlement and Theft in Sunter

J&T Express has filed a police report with North Jakarta Metro Police regarding alleged embezzlement and theft that occurred in Sunter, Tanjung Priok District. The report follows allegations of unlawful detention that were circulated and caused public concern. Police investigation is currently underway with ongoing clarification from involved parties.

Global Oil Prices Surge Following US Strikes on Iran

Global crude oil prices surged sharply on 2 March following escalated military tensions between the United States and Israel against Iran, with Brent crude reaching US$78.2 per barrel. The blockade of the strategic Strait of Hormuz by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which handles approximately 20 per cent of global oil and gas trade, threatens to drive prices further upward as alternative shipping routes are more costly and time-consuming.

BGN Temporarily Halts 47 Nutritional Service Units Over Substandard Free Meal Programme

The Indonesian National Nutrition Body (BGN) has temporarily suspended operations of 47 Nutritional Service Provision Units (SPPG) since early Ramadan following repeated findings of substandard meals in the free nutritious meal programme. The suspensions, affecting units across three regional jurisdictions, were triggered by discoveries of mouldy bread, rotten fruit with maggots, stale side dishes, raw or spoiled eggs, and meals failing quality standards.

Puan Honours Former Vice President Try Sutrisno as Warm and Close to All Generations

House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has paid tribute to Indonesia's sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno, describing him as a warm and approachable figure who served as a role model across generations. Puan highlighted Sutrisno's humble demeanour and significant contributions to the nation, expressing hope that his legacy of struggle and values will be continued by future generations. Indonesia's parliament and people mourned the loss of this respected national figure.

Middle East Conflict Triggers Oil Price Surge, Impact on Indonesia

A petroleum industry practitioner warns that escalating Middle East tensions, particularly Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, could drive crude oil prices to $80–90 per barrel and trigger domestic fuel price increases of 10–15 percent in Indonesia.

University of Indonesia Partners with International Bodies to Launch Unmanned Vessel for Coral Reef Protection in Karimunjawa

The Disaster Risk Reduction Center at the University of Indonesia has launched an ambitious marine conservation project called "Seabug", an unmanned vessel based on Internet of Things technology supported by international funding from the Coral Research & Development Accelerator Platform. The IoT-powered vessel will monitor water quality and ecosystem health in the Karimunjawa Islands in Central Java, addressing coral degradation caused by sedimentation and uncontrolled tourism activities.

Kadin: US$ 10 Billion Investment Commitment to America is a Two-Way Scheme

Indonesia's Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) has clarified that the US$ 10 billion investment commitment to the United States under the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) is part of a two-way investment framework facilitation, not an obligation to import specific commodities. The scheme encompasses optional investments in engineering, procurement and construction projects, blue ammonia development, and other energy initiatives, with actual realisation dependent on commercial viability and project bankability rather than binding purchase requirements.

Jakarta Governor Submits Family Development Regional Regulation: Investment Towards Global City Status

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has submitted a regional regulation draft (Raperda) on Family Development, positioning it as a long-term investment for the capital's transformation into a global city. The regulation aims to systematically improve family quality of life across welfare, resilience and participation, with integrated cross-sector programmes to address fragmented family policies and strengthen institutional governance.

Bareskrim Arrests 7 Suspects in Illegal Tin Sand Smuggling to Malaysia

Indonesia's police directorate (Bareskrim) has arrested seven individuals involved in smuggling illegal tin sand from the Bangka Belitung region to Malaysia. The operation resulted in the interception of cargo ship KM Rezeki Laut II carrying 319 sacks of illegally mined tin sand on 24 February, with subsequent arrests of the vessel's crew and two suspected coordinators who collected, processed, and arranged shipments to Malaysian smelters.

Oil Price Surge Following Iran-Israel Conflict: Will Bitcoin Be Dragged Down or Become a New Safe Haven for Investors?

Rising crude oil prices triggered by escalating tensions between Iran, Israel, and the United States have surged to $80 per barrel, up 13 per cent from the previous week's close, posing risks to global inflation and economic stability. Bitcoin faces dual pressure: it may be dragged down alongside equities in the short term due to its 78 per cent correlation with the S&P 500, but could emerge as a hedge against traditional financial system uncertainty if investor confidence deteriorates further.

Motorcycle Riders Frequently Ride Against Traffic on Bekasi Main Road, Causing Accidents

Motorcyclists regularly travel against the flow of traffic on Jalan Raya Bekasi between Cakung and Pulogadung in East Jakarta, particularly during morning rush hours when traffic is congested. Local residents report that whilst traffic police occasionally patrol the area to enforce road regulations, illegal riding resumes once officers are absent, creating serious safety hazards for all road users.

Sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno Passes Away; Pramono Anung: Father of the Nation Embraced Everyone

Sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno has passed away, prompting Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung to pay his respects and express deep sorrow over the loss of a statesman who dedicated his entire life to the nation. Pramono lauded Sutrisno as a founding father figure who embodied unwavering commitment to the constitution and Pancasila principles, remaining active in these roles until his death at nearly 90 years old.

Set Aside Holiday Allowance Funds for Investment, Make It a Momentum to Realise Your Dreams

Bibit.id, Indonesia's leading digital investment application, is urging citizens to invest a portion of their Idul Fitri holiday allowance (THR) rather than spending it immediately on consumption, positioning it as a pathway to long-term financial security and planned futures. The platform highlights investment instruments such as mutual funds, shares, and fixed-rate government bonds as accessible options, with the latter offering state guarantees and favourable tax treatment.

Parliament Calls on Government to Evaluate Special Gas Price Recipients for Better Targeting

The head of the Parliamentary Commission XII has urged the government to evaluate the allocation of Indonesia's Special Gas Price scheme (HGBT) to ensure it effectively supports the domestic economy.

40-metre Tsunami Mistaken for 3 Metres, 18,500 Dead in Japan's 2011 Disaster

Japan's 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami claimed 18,500 lives, with authorities critically miscalculating the tsunami height at 3 metres when it actually reached 40 metres, leading to inadequate evacuations. The catastrophic failure in early warning systems and subsequent Fukushima nuclear disaster underscores the critical importance of accurate disaster mitigation and alert systems, lessons particularly relevant to Indonesia, which faces similar seismic and tsunami risks.

Ships Attacked in Strait of Hormuz, Global Oil Prices Surge 10 Per Cent

Global crude oil prices surged sharply following attacks on at least three vessels near the Strait of Hormuz, with Brent crude rising over 4 per cent to US$76.16 per barrel as Middle Eastern tensions escalated. The Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately 20 per cent of global oil and gas supplies pass, represents a critical chokepoint whose disruption poses significant risks to international energy markets and Indonesian imports.

BMKG: Heed potential high waves in North Sumatran waters

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned the public and stakeholders to be alert to potential high waves in several waters off North Sumatra between 2-5 March 2026, with waves reaching 1.25 to 2.5 metres. The high waves pose significant safety risks to fishing vessels and maritime navigation in affected areas including the waters east of the Nias Islands, Batu Islands, and western Indian Ocean regions.

Thousands Surround White House Opposing War Against Iran

Massive anti-war protests have erupted across major American cities, including Times Square and the White House, following a brutal joint Israel-US military attack on Iran that killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Demonstrators, coordinated by left-wing coalitions and civil rights organisations including the ACLU, denounce President Trump's military intervention as unconstitutional and an abuse of presidential power that bypasses Congressional authority.

Trader achieves threefold revenue increase after mentoring through Baznas' Z-Ifthar programme

A fried chicken vendor named Sri Mulyati, supported by Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (Baznas) through its Z-Ifthar Ramadan programme, increased her daily revenue from Rp200,000-300,000 to Rp500,000-900,000, tripling her income.

Public Works Minister Confirms Four-Day Toll Discount During 2026 Eid Holiday Period

The Minister of Public Works, Dody Hanggodo, has announced a 30 per cent toll tariff discount for all vehicle categories during the 2026 Eid holiday travel period, implementing a four-day discount scheme split between outbound and return journeys (15–16 March and 26–27 March).

BMKG Issues Alert for Strong Winds of 45 km/h in Greater Jakarta Tonight

Indonesia's meteorological agency BMKG has issued a weather alert for the Greater Jakarta area (Jabodetabek) on Monday, 2 March 2026, warning of heavy rainfall accompanied by lightning and strong winds of up to 45 km/h from the south-westerly to westerly directions.

Commission XII Head Calls for Evaluation of Cheap Gas Recipient Industries

The chairman of Commission XII of the Indonesian Parliament has called for a comprehensive evaluation of industries receiving cheap natural gas under the Special Natural Gas Price (HGBT) scheme to ensure benefits are properly targeted to the domestic economy.

SMEs Encouraged to Maximise Financial Technology for Business Management During Ramadan

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are being encouraged to adopt financial technology tools to manage transactions and finances more efficiently during the Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr season. GoPay and MOKA, in collaboration with PLN's Jakarta Greater Distribution Unit, conducted an educational initiative offering SMEs access to digital payment systems and accounting tools that enable real-time sales tracking, inventory management, and financial reporting.

Flight Cancellations Due to Iran Conflict Leave Foreign Nationals in Bali Scrambling for Alternative Routes Home

International flights at Bali's Ngurah Rai Airport have been cancelled due to escalating conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran, leaving numerous foreign tourists stranded and forced to extend their stays without prior planning. Affected passengers report frustration with airlines' lack of alternative solutions or communication, with some facing financial and logistical challenges as they await flight rescheduling information.

Try Sutrisno Dies; Puan States Indonesia Has Lost a Humble Figure

Try Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth Vice President, has died at the age of 90 at RSPAD Gatot Soebroto hospital in Jakarta on Monday morning. DPR Speaker Puan Maharani expressed deep condolences, describing him as a humble and warm figure who was a role model for multiple generations. Sutrisno had been hospitalised since 16 February due to declining appetite, with his health gradually deteriorating owing to advanced age.

Age limit raised, senior lecturers can now undertake study leave

Indonesia's Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology has raised the maximum age limit for lecturers to pursue study leave from 51 to 53 years for those without administrative duties and 57 years for those with such duties, under new 2026 regulations. The policy aims to support continuous career development for academics and recognises that learning and skills development are not limited to a specific age.

Middle East Tensions Set to Deliver Double Blow to This Industry

Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East threaten to trigger global energy price surges that could severely impact Indonesia's import-dependent industries through rising production and logistics costs. The construction sector and SMEs face particular vulnerability due to thin profit margins and the nation's heavy reliance on land-based transportation.

KPAI: "Sarong wars" tip of iceberg in child play space crisis

The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has characterised the phenomenon of "sarong wars" (perang sarung) during Ramadan—violent street clashes that have resulted in deaths and head injuries—as the tip of a much larger crisis concerning inadequate play spaces, weak supervision, and environmental failure to accommodate children's needs.

Israel launches strikes on Lebanon after intercepting rocket fire, warns residents

Israeli military launched waves of airstrikes across multiple regions of Lebanon early Monday following the interception of a rocket fired from Lebanese territory, with Hezbollah claiming responsibility for the attack targeting Israeli missile defence positions near Haifa.

Analysis of Cak Nun's Prediction on Iran Attack: Is Saudi Really Defending Israel, and What Is Indonesia's Position?

A 2012 prediction by Indonesian cultural figure Cak Nun (Emha Ainun Najib) about a future attack on Iran by the United States and Israel has resurfaced on social media amid recent geopolitical tensions. The prediction, which also foresaw Saudi Arabia defending Israel and raised questions about Indonesia's diplomatic stance, has reignited debate about whether Indonesia would align with Iran or Israel in such a conflict, with users noting the relevance of his question to current events.

SAI Cipedak Students Raise Palestinian Issue Through Educational Installation

More than 1,000 visitors attended Sekolah Alam Indonesia Cipedak's "We Are (also) Palestinian: Timeline of Palestinian History" exhibition, a cross-level project-based learning initiative. The school positioned Palestinian history not merely as curriculum content but as a space to foster empathy and social justice awareness among students across different age groups, with each level approaching the theme through age-appropriate educational methods.

Building Synergy to Realise Sustainable and Prosperous Districts

Nine districts united under the Sustainable District Forum (LTKL) are collaborating to implement restorative economics—sustainable growth that protects the environment whilst improving livelihoods through multi-stakeholder engagement. The initiative, targeting 2030, is establishing proof-of-concept sustainable and self-sufficient district models with innovations ranging from peatland-friendly agriculture in Riau to agroforestry systems in Central Sulawesi, aiming to create a replicable blueprint for sustainable development across Indonesia.

LTKL Launches Synergy to Create Sustainable Districts That Prosper Communities

Nine districts organised under the Sustainable District Forum (LTKL) have committed to collaborating on creating sustainable districts through multi-stakeholder approaches that prioritise restorative economics—growth that repairs both environment and livelihoods.

Middle East Tensions Rise; Ministry of Hajj Prioritises Safety of Indonesian Umrah Pilgrims in Saudi Arabia

Indonesia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced it is prioritising the safety of approximately 58,873 Indonesian pilgrims currently in Saudi Arabia following escalating tensions in the Middle East after US and Israeli attacks on Iran. The government is maintaining close coordination with local authorities and pilgrims through the system (SISKOPATUH), urging travellers to remain calm and liaise with their respective tour operators for official updates.

Indonesia's Imports from China Surge as US Goods Pile Up

Indonesia's total imports surged 18.21 per cent in January 2026 to US$ 21.20 billion, with Chinese imports dominating at US$ 7.89 billion (43.75 per cent of total), up 24.39 per cent year-on-year. Conversely, US imports plummeted 22.48 per cent to US$ 703.8 million, dropping from third-largest supplier to fourth position, whilst Australian imports nearly doubled driven by metals and cereals.

Second Son of Try Sutrisno Leads Funeral Prayer for Former Vice President

Taufik Dwi Cahyono, the second son of former Indonesian Vice President Try Sutrisno, led the funeral prayer for his father at Masjid Agung Sunda Kelapa in Jakarta on Monday, 2 March 2026. Try Sutrisno, aged 90, passed away at RSPAD Gatot Subroto hospital after a decline in health; he had been hospitalised since 16 February 2026 and experienced loss of appetite in his final days.

Vice President Ma'ruf Amin and JK Lead Funeral Prayer for Former Vice President Try Sutrisno at Sunda Kelapa Mosque

Former Vice President Try Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth-ranking vice president, passed away on Monday, 2 March 2026 at RSPAD Gatot Soebroto Hospital in Central Jakarta. Current Vice President Ma'ruf Amin and former Vice President Jusuf Kalla led funeral prayers at Masjid Agung Sunda Kelapa, joined by numerous cabinet ministers and political leaders. The deceased's body was subsequently transferred to a funeral home at Purwakarta Street, Central Jakarta.

Annual Inflation in February 2026 Reaches 4.76 Per Cent, Driven by Low Base Effect from Electricity Tariff Discount

Indonesia's year-on-year inflation rose to 4.76 per cent in February 2026, reversing a deflation of 0.09 per cent recorded in February 2025, primarily due to the low base effect from electricity tariff discounts implemented in early 2025. The Central Statistics Agency notes that whilst annual inflation appears elevated, underlying price dynamics remain relatively stable in line with fundamental trends, with food prices ahead of Ramadan also contributing to the increase.

Constitutional Court rejects substantive review filed by Hasto Kristiyanto on investigation obstruction clause

Indonesia's Constitutional Court rejected a substantive review petition filed by PDI Perjuangan Secretary Hasto Kristiyanto challenging Article 21 of the Anti-Corruption Law, citing that the petition had lost its object after the court had already invalidated the disputed phrase "directly or indirectly" in a preceding decision.

Bali Accelerates: Investors Must Move Faster

Bali is strengthening its position as a premier investment destination through significant planned infrastructure development, including enhanced transportation networks, modern healthcare facilities, and international schools. The provincial government, led by Governor Wayan Koster, is committed to accelerating infrastructure and economic programmes, whilst tourist arrivals have surged from 2.2 million in 2022 to a projected 6.9 million in 2025, driving property value growth and attracting global investors and expatriates.

Murder of Joxzin Brigade Member in Bantul Remains Unsolved After Nearly a Week

Police are continuing their investigation into the murder of Kitin Yoga Tama Rustamaji (36), a member of the Joxzin Brigade, who was hacked to death in his home in Sedayu, Bantul on 25 February 2026. Two suspects remain at large, and whilst seven witnesses have been questioned, police have withheld details of their statements and CCTV footage analysis, with the case still under investigation.

Military Leaders, Pramono and Tanjung Pay Respects at Try Sutrisno's Wake

Senior government officials, military leaders and business figures paid their respects at the wake of former Vice President Try Sutrisno, who served from 1993 to 1998 under President Suharto and passed away at age 90. Attendees included Military Commander Agus Subiyanto, Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto and CT Corp founder Chairul Tanjung, who honoured his contributions to national defence and development.

Try Sutrisno Passes Away; Puan Maharani Remembers His Humble Demeanour

Indonesia's sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno has passed away at the Armed Forces Central Hospital (RSPAD) in Jakarta on Monday morning, 2 March 2026. Speaker of the House Puan Maharani paid tribute to Sutrisno as a statesman of warmth and humility who left a significant legacy for Indonesia's sovereignty and independence.

Samarinda Airport enhances passenger facilities ahead of Eid holiday exodus

Samarinda Airport has upgraded its passenger facilities in preparation for the Eid holiday travel season, including new shuttle corridors, improved terminal aesthetics, baby care rooms, and electric vehicle charging stations. The airport processed 15,913 passengers during the first ten days of Ramadan (19-28 February), representing a 26.27 per cent decline compared to the same period last year.

Artificial Intelligence Becomes New Competitor for Law and Medical Graduates, Says Former Google Executive

Jad Tarifi, a former senior Google executive and founder of the company's first generative AI team, warns that artificial intelligence now poses a serious threat to career prospects for law and medical school graduates.

Iran Conflict: Four Catastrophic Impacts That Could Shake Indonesia and the World

Escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East following US and Israeli military strikes on Iran and the reported death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei pose significant risks to global and Indonesian economies. The conflict threatens to drive crude oil prices higher, trigger global inflation, strengthen the US dollar at the expense of emerging market currencies like the rupiah, and increase volatility in global equity markets.

Luhut Remembers Try Sutrisno's Service During His Time as Chief of Staff of the Army

National Economic Council Chairman Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan has paid tribute to the late former Vice President Try Sutrisno, recalling his leadership qualities and patriotic spirit during his tenure as Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Army (KSAD).

Special Committee 13 of Bandung DPRD Preparing Bylaw to Strengthen City Governance

Special Committee 13 of the Bandung City Regional Assembly (DPRD) is advancing a comprehensive Draft Regional Bylaw on Public Order, Peace, and Community Protection comprising 63 articles across 18 chapters to strengthen municipal governance. The committee has already progressed discussions on road discipline, social order, health regulations, and business conduct, with further sessions scheduled for February 2026, whilst eight additional regulatory aspects remain under development.

IHSG Falls to 8,100 in Morning Session, Energy Sector Proves Saviour

The Indonesian Composite Index (IHSG) plummeted 1.60 per cent to 8,103.72 in morning trading on Monday, 2 March 2026, following U.S. and Israeli military strikes on Iran that resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The energy sector emerged as the sole gainer, advancing 1.60 per cent, whilst cyclical consumer stocks fell 5.12 per cent and other sectors broadly declined amidst heightened geopolitical tensions.

BPS: January 2026 Imports Reach $21.20 Billion, Dominated by Raw Materials

Indonesia's imports in January 2026 reached $21.20 billion, representing an 18.21 per cent year-on-year increase, according to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS). The surge was primarily driven by non-oil and gas imports, particularly raw materials and capital goods, reflecting increased domestic investment and production activity.

Bauxite Downstream Processing: Key to Breaking Free from Middle-Income Trap

NEXT Indonesia Center argues that downstream processing of Indonesia's substantial bauxite reserves into alumina and aluminium can increase value by up to 59 times, offering a pathway out of the middle-income trap and strengthening industrial structure. While Indonesia currently sells bauxite raw at approximately $59 per ton, processing into alumina raises value to $478 per ton, and aluminium production could yield up to $59 per ton based on 20-year averages, yet Indonesia earned only $1.

Lawyer for Biological Mother Reveals Ex-Husband's Messages Before Child NS Died

During a hearing before Indonesia's Parliamentary Commission III, the legal representative of a deceased child's biological mother presented evidence of suspicious circumstances surrounding the death of a boy identified as NS in Sukabumi, including bruises and burn marks on his body, and WhatsApp exchanges between his biological father and mother discussing his grave illness and funeral arrangements.

Residents Resume Fishing in Cisadane River After Pesticide Contamination Incident

Residents in Tangerang have returned to fishing in the Cisadane River following a pesticide contamination incident in early February 2026 that killed numerous fish. Local fishermen report that the river has largely recovered, with fish populations returning and water quality improving, though cleanup efforts by disaster management and fire service personnel were required to remove fish carcasses and debris.

Over a Month On, Clean Water Still Not Flowing in RW 03 Jembatan Besi

Residents of RW 03 Jembatan Besi in Jakarta Barat have gone without mains water supply for over a month as of early March 2026, continuing to rely on water tanker assistance and purchasing water from vendors. Whilst PAM Jaya has provided regular water tank deliveries, officials have only conducted preliminary inspections and have not provided clear information on the nature of the problem or repair timeline, with residents yet to see any actual repair work commence in their areas.

Man Impersonating Metro Police Officer Steals Motorcycle Using Hypnosis in East Jakarta

A man claiming to be a narcotics officer from Jakarta Metro Police allegedly hypnotised a motorcycle taxi driver and stole his motorcycle at a petrol station in Makasar, East Jakarta, on 27 February 2026. The suspect posed as a police official, briefly visited a local police station to establish credibility, then absconded with the victim's motorcycle in the Kramat Jati area. The security officer at the station could not verify the suspect's claimed police affiliation.

Try Sutrisno, Military Engineer Who Became Presidential Aide and Later Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia

Try Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth Vice President, has died at the age of 90. His career spanned the upper echelons of military and political power during the New Order era, beginning as Presidential Aide to Suharto in 1974 and culminating in his appointment as Vice President in 1993, a position he held until 1998 when he was succeeded by B.J. Habibie.

DJKA Provides Free Motorcycle Transport with Trains, Here Are the Routes & Registration Details

Indonesia's Directorate General of Railways has launched MOTIS (Free Motorcycle Transport with Trains) for the 2026 Eid holiday exodus, offering safe and free transport for an estimated 24.08 million motorcyclists. The programme operates across three routes (Northern, Central, and Southern), with registration running from 1-29 March 2026 and transport services scheduled for 13-19 March (outbound) and 24-30 March (return).

Evaluation of Special Gas Price Recipients Intensifies as Industry Faces Gas Shortage

Indonesia's Commission XII of the House of Representatives is pushing for a review of the special gas price (HGBT) policy amid industry complaints of insufficient supply at the start of 2026. The commission argues allocations should prioritise domestic industrial strengthening over export-focused production, with some recipients directing 90 per cent of output abroad.

Tokocrypto CEO: Crypto Begins Recovery Following Initial Iran–Israel Conflict Pressure

The escalation of the Iran–Israel conflict triggered sharp volatility in cryptocurrency markets, initially causing significant corrections before recovery. According to Tokocrypto's CEO, Bitcoin has demonstrated neither the characteristics of a traditional safe haven asset like gold nor pure speculation, instead occupying a middle position with strengthening institutional demand.

Jakarta Composite Index Closes Down 1.60 Per Cent in Morning Session; Stock Exchange Chief Urges Investors to Remain Rational

Indonesia's Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell 131.767 points or 1.60 per cent to 8,103.718 on Monday 2 March 2026, pressured by geopolitical tensions between Iran and Israel affecting global financial markets. The Acting Chief Executive of the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX), Jeffrey Hendrik, has urged investors to remain calm and rational, basing investment decisions on fundamental analysis rather than short-term market sentiment and speculation.

Rano Karno Safe Amid US-Israel vs Iran Conflict, Returns from Umrah Tomorrow

Jakarta Vice Governor Rano Karno is unaffected by international flight disruptions caused by US-Israel military operations against Iran and is scheduled to return to Indonesia on Tuesday, 3 March 2026, after completing umrah since 22 February.

Deputy Jakarta Governor Rano Karno Unaffected by Middle East Flight Disruptions, Return Umrah Schedule On Track for Tomorrow

Rano Karno, Deputy Governor of Jakarta, remains unaffected by international flight disruptions caused by escalating Middle East conflict between the United States and Israel against Iran. His scheduled return to Indonesia on Tuesday, 3 March 2026, after completing his umrah pilgrimage remains on track, as his aircraft operates on a direct route without transiting through affected hubs.

Commission III Meets with Sukabumi Police Chief to Discuss Child Abuse Case

Indonesia's Commission III of the House of Representatives held a public hearing regarding the death of Nizam Syafei, a child from Sukabumi, West Java, allegedly killed by his stepmother. Commission chairman Habiburokhman emphasised the inquiry was not intended to interfere with the investigation but to ensure it proceeded according to law, whilst expressing suspicion that others besides the stepmother may have been complicit in the abuse and neglect.

Try Sutrisno Dies; Interior Minister Tito Karnavian: He Was Among the Nation's Finest Sons

General (Retired) Try Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth Vice President who served from 1993 to 1998, has died at the age of 90 at the Armed Forces Central Hospital in Jakarta on Monday morning. Interior Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian and State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi paid tribute to Sutrisno's lifelong dedication to the nation and urged Indonesians to honour his legacy of integrity and exemplary leadership as an inspiration for future generations.

Donald Trump Opens Dialogue Opportunity with Iran's New Leadership

Following a devastating joint US-Israeli military operation that killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on 28 February, US President Donald Trump has signalled willingness to negotiate with Iran's remaining leadership.

Seeking Signal in Remote Atadei for Academic Ability Test

Eight sixth-form pupils from SD Inpres Atalojo in Lembata Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, must trek 2.5 kilometres daily to Watulolo village to access stable internet connectivity for their online Academic Ability Tests (TKA), accompanied by three teachers navigating challenging terrain and unpredictable weather.

Strait of Hormuz Closure: Logistics Costs in Indonesia Set to Soar

Potential disruption to the Strait of Hormuz amid Middle East conflict threatens to increase Indonesia's logistics costs significantly, as the country remains heavily dependent on road transport powered by diesel. The supply chain expert warns that a 10–30 per cent rise in diesel prices could translate to 3.5–12 per cent increases in trucking fees, ultimately pushing consumer prices higher.

Child Reports Multiple Missing Rail Fasteners Near Citayam Station; KAI Responds

A viral video showed a child reporting missing metal rail fasteners near Citayam Station in Depok, prompting a response from Indonesia's state railway operator PT KAI. KAI's Jakarta Regional Operations manager assured the public that train services remain safe and secure, explaining that the railway system has engineering standards and tolerance thresholds that account for minor component variations, whilst emphasising that daily track inspections are conducted to maintain safety standards.

Tomorrow, Marcella Santoso and Ary Gadun FM Will Face Judgment Hearing in Judge Bribery Case Over CPO

Advocates Marcella Santoso and Ariyanto Bakri, along with several others, are scheduled to face a verdict reading on Tuesday, 3 March 2026, in a high-profile corruption case involving bribery of a judge who acquitted three crude palm oil corporations. Santoso and Bakri each face sentences of 17 years imprisonment plus fines of 600 million rupiah, with additional charges related to obstruction of investigation involving former Jakarta TV director Tian Bahtiar and cyber activist M.

Indonesia's Exports Grow 3.39 Per Cent to US$22.16 Billion

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reported that January 2026 exports reached US$22.16 billion, growing 3.39 per cent year-on-year, with the manufacturing sector driving growth at 8.19 per cent. The trade balance recorded a surplus of US$0.95 billion, supported primarily by non-oil and gas commodities which posted a US$3.22 billion surplus, though the oil and gas sector remained in deficit at US$2.27 billion.

Migrant CARE Opens Emergency Desk to Protect Indonesian Workers in Middle East

Migrant CARE has opened an emergency desk and complaint channel to protect hundreds of thousands of Indonesian migrant workers in the Middle East amid escalating regional conflict. Executive Director Wahyu Susilo expressed deep concern that the instability poses direct threats to Indonesian workers' safety and called on the Indonesian government to establish information channels, provide regular situation updates, and prepare contingency plans.

Constitutional Court Rejects Challenge to New Criminal Code Provision on Unauthorised Protests

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has rejected a legal challenge brought by 13 law students against Article 256 of the new Criminal Code (Law 1/2023), which criminalises unauthorised public demonstrations that disrupt public order.

February Inflation Surges to 0.68%, Gold Prices Drive Main Catalyst

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reported February 2026 inflation reached 0.68% month-on-month, driven significantly by surging gold prices which contributed 0.19 percentage points and rose 8.42% year-on-year. Additional inflationary pressures came from fresh chilli, fresh fish, and red chilli, whilst gold prices climbed to IDR 3.135 million per gram, largely attributed to escalating geopolitical tensions between Iran, the United States, and Israel.

Remembering Try Sutrisno: Cak Imin Pays Tribute to His Long Legacy of Service to Indonesia

Abddul Muhaimin Iskandar, chairman of the National Awakening Party (PKB), expressed condolences following the death of Indonesia's sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno on Monday, 2 March 2026, at the age of 90. Cak Imin highlighted Sutrisno's enduring legacy of leadership and commitment to national unity during his distinguished military and governmental career, which included serving as Vice President from 1993 to 1998.

Allocation of Ferry Ports During the 2026 Eid Transport Period

The Ministry of Transportation, working with the National Police Traffic Corps and the Ministry of Public Works, has established an operational strategy for allocating ferry port capacity during the 2026 Eid transport period to manage potential vehicle congestion at critical points such as Merak, Bakauheni, Ketapang, and Gilimanuk ports.

Mitigating Climate Change and Protecting Coastal Areas Through Mangrove Planting

Paint manufacturer PT Avia Avian Tbk has planted over 6,000 mangrove trees at Pantai Martajasah in Bangkalan, East Java, as part of its environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation strategy. The initiative includes nursery training and capacity-building for local communities to ensure long-term ecosystem management whilst generating economic benefits for coastal residents.

Golkar Urges Indonesia to Mobilise International Forces to Stop US-Israel-Iran War

The Golkar Party, through Secretary General Muhammad Sarmuji, has called on the Indonesian Government to mobilise international forces to end the conflict between the United States-Israel and Iran and return to diplomatic channels for resolution.

Before His Death, Try Sutrisno Frequently Reported Important Matters to President Prabowo

Former Vice President Try Sutrisno, who passed away on 2 March 2026 at the age of 90, frequently reported significant state matters to President Prabowo Subianto, according to statements from Wiranto, former Commander of the Indonesian Armed Forces. Wiranto, currently serving as the President's Special Advisor on Politics and Security, praised Try Sutrisno's commitment to constitutional adherence and prioritising the public interest over personal and factional concerns.

Strengthening Alliance with Trump, Javier Milei Targets Argentina as Major Global Player

Argentine President Javier Milei has declared a strategic alliance with the United States under President Donald Trump as official state policy, positioning Argentina as a key player in the South Atlantic region. Milei cited Argentina's critical minerals, energy resources, and geopolitical position whilst announcing a comprehensive 90-reform package aimed at restructuring the nation over the next 50 years.

Strait of Hormuz Closure: Experts Predict Oil Prices Will Soar

Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz in response to the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is expected to have severe consequences for global and Indonesian economies. Experts project crude oil prices could surge to USD 100-120 per barrel, with Indonesia facing significant fiscal burdens due to increased fuel subsidies and weakening rupiah.

Former Indonesian Vice President Try Sutrisno's Message to the Young Generation Before His Passing

Try Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth Vice President, passed away on 2 March 2026 at the age of 90, leaving behind a significant message to the nation's youth. In his final message, Sutrisno emphasised the importance of generational transition, professional competence, and maintaining national unity, calling on young people to prepare themselves well and serve the nation with integrity.

President Prabowo to Attend Funeral of Try Sutrisno at Kalibata National Heroes Cemetery

President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to attend the funeral procession of Indonesia's sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno at Kalibata National Heroes Cemetery on Monday, 2 March 2026. Try Sutrisno, who passed away at RSPAD Gatot Subroto on Sunday morning, died at the age of 90 due to age-related health decline rather than any specific illness.

Trump Claims 48 Iranian Leaders Killed in US-Israel Strike

US President Donald Trump has claimed that 48 Iranian leaders were killed in a joint US-Israel military operation launched on 28 February, describing the campaign as a "success" aimed at eliminating Iran's leadership and destroying its military capabilities. The strikes, which resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, prompted Iranian retaliation that killed at least three US military personnel and wounded several others at bases across the Middle East.

Constitutional Court Tightens Definitions of Obstruction of Justice in Corruption Cases

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has ruled that the phrase "directly or indirectly" in Article 21 of the Corruption Eradication Law must be removed to prevent its misuse as a catch-all provision and to protect legitimate activities such as advocacy, journalism, and academic discourse.

Moeldoko Remembers Try Sutrisno: Always Emphasised Soldiers' Respect for Women's Rights

Former TNI Commander Moeldoko has paid tribute to the late Vice President Try Sutrisno, honouring his legacy as a military leader who consistently emphasised the importance of soldiers respecting women's rights and engaging with the community. Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth Vice President and former ABRI Commander, passed away on 2 March 2026 at Gatot Soebroto Army Central Hospital in Jakarta, with his funeral and burial at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery scheduled for the same day.

Only 39 Jakarta Regional Assembly Members Attend Plenary Session, Many Seats Empty

Only 39 out of 106 members of the Jakarta Regional Assembly (DPRD DKI Jakarta) attended a plenary session on 2 March 2026 to hear the Governor's address on two regional regulations concerning family development and environmental protection and management. The sparse attendance left most seats empty, with only 18 members present when the session began, raising questions about legislative accountability that the assembly secretariat has yet to address.

Iran-US-Israel Conflict: Indonesian Business Leaders Concerned About Disruption to Global Trade

The Indonesian Employers Association (Apindo) has expressed concern that escalating military tensions between the US-Israel alliance and Iran could disrupt global trade and energy flows, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, which handles approximately 20% of the world's oil supply.

Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education Responds to PIP Fund Disbursement Obstacles in Ngada Child Suicide Case

The Secretary General of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Suharti, has addressed administrative obstacles preventing a mother from withdrawing Programme Indonesia Pintar (PIP) education funds following her child's tragic suicide in Ngada, East Nusa Tenggara. The delay stems from the child being registered under the grandmother's family card rather than the mother's, requiring additional documentation to resolve the issue.

Indonesian Migrant Workers in Middle East Under Threat; Migrant Care Opens Emergency Post

Migrant Care has expressed deep concern over escalating Middle Eastern conflicts that threaten hundreds of thousands of Indonesian migrant workers (PMI) in the region, opening an emergency information and complaint centre in response. The organisation calls on the Indonesian government to immediately ensure the safety of its citizens abroad by establishing communication channels, providing regular situation updates, and preparing contingency plans.

Ramadan, Fasting, and Piety

This article examines the Islamic concept of fasting (sawm) during Ramadan as a spiritual practice rooted in Quranic teachings and hadith. It explains that fasting involves abstaining from permissible acts such as eating, drinking, and conjugal relations between dawn and sunset, serving as a test of obedience that cultivates taqwa (piety).

Constitutional Court Rules That Chronic Illness Can Be Classified as Disability Following Assessment

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has partially granted a petition to recognise chronic illness sufferers as persons with disabilities, conditional upon medical assessment. The court ruled that chronic diseases, though not always visibly apparent, cause genuine functional limitations and social participation barriers that warrant legal protection and equal opportunities in employment and education.

Indonesia's February 2026 Inflation Reaches 0.68 Per Cent, Driven by Food Price Surge During Ramadan

Indonesia's inflation accelerated to 0.68 per cent month-on-month in February 2026, exceeding economist forecasts of 0.1 to 0.2 per cent, with food prices surging amid Ramadan demand. Year-on-year inflation reached 4.76 per cent, reversing the 0.09 per cent deflation recorded in February 2025, whilst the Consumer Price Index rose from 109.75 in January to 110.50 in February.

House Speaker Pays Tribute to Late Vice President Try Sutrisno as Warm and Humble Figure

House Speaker Puan Maharani expressed deep condolences following the death of Indonesia's sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno, who passed away on Monday morning at the Army Central Hospital in Jakarta. Maharani described Sutrisno as a warm and humble national figure whose contributions to Indonesia were significant, and called for his legacy of struggle to be continued by future generations.

Constitutional Court declines to hear second parliamentary threshold test case as petition deemed premature

Indonesia's Constitutional Court (MK) has rejected a petition from the Electoral Watchdog and Democracy (KPD) to review the parliamentary electoral threshold, ruling that the petition is premature because the legislature has yet to implement changes mandated by a previous MK decision. The court previously ordered parliament to revise the 4 per cent threshold before the 2029 elections, and will not entertain new challenges until lawmakers fulfil this constitutional obligation.

Additional Tax Layer Viewed as Tool to Rescue People's Industry

The Indonesian Ministry of Finance's plan to add a new layer to the Excise Tax on Tobacco Products (CHT) structure is defended by tobacco industry stakeholders as a necessary fiscal transition tool rather than a backward step, aimed at formalising a distorted market and reducing the proliferation of illegal cigarettes.

List of Countries Most Affected by Hormuz Strait Closure

US and Israeli military strikes on Iran have raised global concerns about disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route through which approximately 20-30 per cent of the world's oil and gas supply passes daily. China, India, Japan, and South Korea are the most vulnerable nations, collectively accounting for 69 per cent of the crude oil and condensate flowing through the strait, with crude oil prices potentially surging beyond $100 per barrel if the passage is completely blocked.

Chicken and Bird's Eye Chilli Prices Drive February 2026 Inflation to 0.68 Per Cent

Indonesia's Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) reported that February 2026 inflation reached 0.68 per cent month-on-month, driven primarily by rising prices in the food, beverage and tobacco sector, with key commodities including chicken meat and bird's eye chillies accounting for significant inflationary pressures. Year-on-year inflation stood at 4.76 per cent, a marked reversal from a 0.

Donald Trump Aims to Make Iran Like Venezuela

US President Donald Trump has indicated that the military operation against Iran could follow a similar model to the US intervention in Venezuela, citing the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro as a "perfect scenario." Trump stated he has three potential candidates to lead Iran after the conflict, whilst refusing to guarantee protections for Iranian citizens or rule out lifting sanctions if a more pragmatic leadership emerges in Tehran.

Commission III extends condolences on the death of former Vice President Try Sutrisno and KPAI Chair

Commission III of the Indonesian House of Representatives extended condolences on the death of Indonesia's sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno, who passed away on 2 March 2026 at the Central Military Hospital (RSPAD) in Jakarta. The commission also mourned the recent death of Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) Chair Margaret Aliyatul Maimunah and a child victim of abuse. Sutrisno's funeral service is scheduled to take place at Sunda Kelapa Mosque with burial at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery.

Ambassador: Ramadan Study Day strengthens Indonesia-Tunisia relations

Indonesia's Ambassador to Tunisia, Zuhairi Misrawi, emphasised that a Ramadan Study Day organised by the Faculty of Ushuluddin at Tunisia's Ez-Zitouna University strengthens social, intellectual, and spiritual ties between the two nations. The event, held on 28 February at the university's Al-Aqsha campus, brought together Tunisian academics and Indonesian students to promote cultural and diplomatic relations beyond formal channels.

Social welfare beneficiaries in South Jakarta predominantly from surrounding areas

South Jakarta's Social Welfare Bureau reports that beneficiaries requiring social welfare services (PPKS) are predominantly from Jakarta's surrounding buffer regions, including Tangerang, Depok, and Bekasi, due to the area's border location and high mobility. During the early period of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah, authorities secured 16 individuals, primarily beggars and vagrants, with plans for intensified monitoring during the Islamic holy month and Eid period when numbers typically surge.

12-Car KRL Train Tested on Green Line Route, When Will It Operate?

PT KAI Commuter has conducted test operations of a 12-car train set on the Rangkasbitung-Tanah Abang Green Line route in Jakarta, with the testing recorded on 28 February 2026. The company is evaluating whether supporting infrastructure can accommodate the expanded 12-car configuration, up from the current standard 10-car trains, to address growing passenger demand.

In Memoriam Try Sutrisno: Thought and Dedication

The article reflects on the legacy of Try Sutrisno, a senior Indonesian statesman who recently passed away, focusing on his critical observations regarding Indonesia's liberal democratic system and its deviation from Pancasila values.

Asian airline shares fall as US-Iran conflict disrupts travel

Asian airline shares plummeted following US and Israeli strikes on Iran, with major carriers including Qantas, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines and Japan Airlines falling more than 5 per cent as Middle Eastern hubs closed and oil prices surged 7 per cent.

Alert: Extreme Weather in 25 Districts, High Waves and Tidal Flooding in Central Java Waters on Monday 2 March

The Indonesian Meteorological, Climatological and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) has issued a weather alert for 25 districts across Central Java on 2 March, warning of extreme weather conditions including heavy rainfall, strong winds, and lightning strikes that could trigger hydrometeorological disasters such as landslides, flooding and whirlwinds. High waves ranging from 1.25 to 2.

Minister Bahlil Prays Before Coffin of Former Vice President Try Sutrisno

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia paid his respects by praying before the coffin of Indonesia's sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno at the Grand Mosque of Sunda Kelapa in Jakarta on Monday (2 March 2026). Try Sutrisno, who was 90 years old, passed away after his health declined due to advanced age whilst hospitalised at RSPAD Gatot Soebroto since 16 February. The state funeral procession culminated in his burial at the Kalibata Heroes Cemetery.

BPS: Indonesia's Trade Balance Records US$0.95 Billion Surplus in January 2026

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reported that the country achieved a trade surplus of US$0.95 billion in January 2026, marking the 69th consecutive month of surplus since May 2021. The surplus was supported by exports of US$22.16 billion and imports of US$21.20 billion, with non-oil and gas commodities such as animal and vegetable fats, mineral fuels, and iron and steel driving the positive balance.

No increase in energy import quota under US trade deal: Minister

Indonesia has signed a US$15 billion energy trade agreement with the United States under the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade, with planned purchases of LPG (US$3.5 billion), crude oil (US$4.5 billion), and refined fuel products (US$7 billion). The Energy Minister clarified that the agreement does not increase import quotas but merely shifts the source of energy supplies from other countries to the United States, ensuring competitive pricing and maintaining national sovereignty.

Vice President KH Ma'ruf Amin Attends Funeral Prayer for Retired General Try Sutrisno

Vice President KH Ma'ruf Amin attended the funeral prayer for Indonesia's sixth Vice President, retired General Try Sutrisno, who passed away on Monday, 2 March due to health issues. The funeral prayer was held at Sunda Kelapa Grand Mosque in Central Jakarta, with hundreds of worshippers and national figures paying their respects. General Try Sutrisno will be buried at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery following the noon prayer.

Indonesia's Exports Reach $22.16 Billion in January 2026, Buoyed by Non-Oil and Gas Sector

Indonesia's exports reached $22.16 billion in January 2026, representing a year-on-year increase of 3.39 per cent, according to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS). The growth was primarily driven by the non-oil and gas sector, particularly palm oil (CPO), nickel, and electronics, with CPO exports surging 46.05 per cent and nickel exports jumping 42.04 per cent. However, agricultural exports declined 20.36 per cent and mining exports fell 14.59 per cent year-on-year.

Silent Attacks Hit 55 Nations, Indonesia at Risk

Russian-speaking hackers have successfully breached over 600 FortiGate firewalls across 55 countries between January and February 2026, targeting weak security configurations and leveraging generative AI tools to amplify their attacks.

Anticipating Middle East Turmoil, Bank Indonesia Takes Measures to Protect Rupiah Stability

Bank Indonesia is implementing precautionary measures including triple intervention strategies in the foreign exchange market to stabilise the rupiah amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East following US strikes on Iran. The central bank's actions encompass spot market transactions, domestic non-deliverable forwards, and offshore interventions to combat currency depreciation driven by global risk-aversion sentiment.

Presidential Palace: Try Sutrisno was Among Indonesia's Finest Sons

The Presidential Palace issued a statement mourning the passing of former Vice President Try Sutrisno, with State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi calling him one of the nation's finest sons who dedicated his life to Indonesia. Sutrisno, who served as Vice President alongside President Suharto from 1993 to 1998, passed away at the Central Military Hospital in Jakarta on 2 March 2026, aged 90.

Video: ABB Collaboration Delivers Clean Water and Education Solutions in East Nusa Tenggara

ABB, a global technology company, is implementing its "Water for All" programme to support Indonesia's Sustainable Development Goals, specifically addressing clean water access and quality education in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The initiative, conducted in partnership with Happy Heart Indonesia Foundation, aims to deliver sustainable water and sanitation solutions tailored to local geographical, social, and cultural conditions in underserved regions.

Ministry of Forestry Empowers Communities Through Social Forestry Programme

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry is expanding its Social Forestry Programme to strengthen economic welfare for communities living around forests whilst preserving forest ecosystems. The programme has issued 11,192 decisions granting access to approximately 1.4 million households nationwide, with East Kalimantan province receiving 360,947.82 hectares across 223 approvals benefiting 23,451 households.

Abah Iwan Suryawan Encourages Cities and Districts in West Java to Establish Food Centres

The head of the PKS party's West Java provincial leadership, Abah Iwan Suryawan, is pushing for every city and district in West Java to develop food centres as a strategic measure to strengthen agricultural, livestock, and fisheries sectors whilst enhancing regional food security.

Moeldoko Remembers Try Sutrisno: A True Commander and Military Agitator

Former TNI Commander General (Ret.) Moeldoko paid tribute to the late former Vice President and ABRI Commander General (Ret.) Try Sutrisno, praising him as a true soldier and national figure who inspired his subordinates. Moeldoko highlighted Try's exceptional ability to motivate troops, his emphasis on patriotism and honesty, and his legacy of promoting women's rights within the military, values that later inspired Moeldoko's own TNI motto "TNI Strong with the People".

Constitutional Court Dismisses Lawsuit Against Unilateral Internet Quota Expiration Scheme

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has dismissed a legal challenge against provisions in the Job Creation Law (UU Ciptaker) that allow telecommunications operators to unilaterally expire prepaid internet quotas without compensation. The Court ruled the petition inadmissible due to insufficient evidence submission, though the case highlighted concerns about consumer property rights and the lack of legal certainty surrounding data rollover policies in the telecoms sector.

Commission I of House of Representatives Condemns Attacks on Iran and Calls for End to War

Deputy Chairman of Commission I of the House of Representatives Sukamta has condemned attacks by Israel and the United States against Iran, characterising them as dangerous escalation threatening regional security and stability.

BPS records Indonesia's trade balance surplus continues for 69 months in January 2026

Indonesia's trade balance recorded a surplus of USD 0.95 billion in January 2026, extending a consecutive 69-month surplus streak since May 2020, buoyed primarily by strong non-oil and gas trade performance despite significant year-on-year import growth. The non-oil and gas sector contributed a surplus of USD 3.22 billion, offset partly by an oil and gas deficit of USD 2.27 billion, with key surplus drivers being vegetable and animal fats (USD 3.10 billion), mineral fuels (USD 2.

Ahok Bewildered by LNG Sales Losses Upon Taking Position as Pertamina Chief Commissioner

Former Pertamina Chief Commissioner Basuki Tjahaja Purnama (Ahok) testified in a corruption trial regarding alleged improprieties in liquefied natural gas (LNG) procurement, stating he was surprised to learn of substantial losses from LNG sales shortly after assuming office in January 2026.

Red Bird's Eye Chilli Prices Remain Steady at Rp80,000 Level, Agriculture Minister Claims Decline Beginning

Indonesia's National Strategic Food Price Information Centre (PIHPS) reports red bird's eye chilli prices at Rp83,850 per kilogram as of Monday, with Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman claiming a downward trend is beginning. Data shows red bird's eye chilli prices declined from Rp77,645 per kg on 23 February to Rp70,953 per kg on 1 March 2026, representing an 8.

ASDP suspends several shipping routes in East Nusa Tenggara due to severe weather

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry has temporarily suspended operations on multiple shipping routes in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) from Monday to Thursday, 5 March, due to severe weather conditions producing waves up to four metres high. The closures affect longer routes including Kupang-Larantuka, Kupang-Lembata, Kupang-Kalabahi, and Kupang-Rote, whilst the shorter Kupang-Hansisi route remains operational.

Chatbots Begin to Be Abandoned as Companies Shift to Contextual AI Agents

Indonesian companies are moving away from simple rule-based chatbots towards contextual AI Agents capable of executing operational tasks integrated with backend systems. Terralogiq has integrated Google Cloud's Gemini 3.1 Pro to build AI Agents that can handle complex procedures such as instant refunds and logistics scheduling without manual intervention.

Iran Under Siege as France, Germany and Britain Join US-Israel War in Arab Region

France, Germany and Britain have declared readiness to take defensive action against Iran in support of their allies and interests in the Gulf region, following Iran's large-scale missile and drone attacks on multiple countries in the area. The three European powers condemned Iran's strikes as reckless and disproportionate, pledging to coordinate with the US and regional allies to neutralise Iran's missile and drone capabilities.

Ministry of Forestry foils illegal trafficking of 1.38 kg of pangolin scales in West Kalimantan

The Directorate General of Law Enforcement under Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry has successfully seized 1.38 kilograms of illegally traded pangolin scales in Sintang District, West Kalimantan, and arrested suspect HLY.

Man Claiming to be Police Officer Allegedly Hypnotises Ojek Driver and Steals Motorcycle at Makasar Petrol Station in East Jakarta

A man claiming to be a member of the Metro Jaya Police's Narcotics Division allegedly hypnotised an ojek (motorcycle taxi) driver and stole his Honda Beat motorcycle at a petrol station in Makasar, East Jakarta, on 27 February. The suspect impersonated a police officer and fled the scene with the victim's motorcycle whilst the security guard was verifying his credentials; the victim later realised he had been hypnotised and reported the incident to Kramat Jati Police.

East Kalimantan Governor Must Return Rp 8.49 Billion Official Vehicle Allocation Within 14 Days

The East Kalimantan provincial government has decided to cancel the purchase of an official vehicle for Governor Rudy Mas'ud worth Rp 8.49 billion and return the allocated funds to the regional treasury within 14 days of the vehicle's handover. The procurement, which was included in the amended 2025 provincial budget, attracted scrutiny and prompted the governor to announce the cancellation via social media and an official voice message.

Police Complete Case File for High School Student Rape Case, Await Piche Kota's Recovery

The Belu Regional Police in East Nusa Tenggara are completing the first-stage case file for a rape case involving a 16-year-old high school student allegedly committed by Indonesian Idol singer Piche Kota (Petrus Yohannes Debrito Armando Jaga Kota), Roy Mali, and Rifal Sila, to be submitted to the Belu State Prosecutor's Office.

Early in the Year, This Data Shows Signs of Indonesia's Economy Gaining Momentum

Indonesia's total imports surged 18.21% year-on-year in January 2026 to reach US$21.20 billion, reversing the decline seen across all import categories in January 2025. The growth was led by capital goods imports, which jumped 35.23% to US$4.49 billion, signalling economic momentum as increased capital investment typically drives production growth. Raw materials and intermediate goods imports also grew strongly at 14.87%, whilst consumer goods imports rose 11.

ANAZ considers airstrikes on Iran as grave violation of UN Charter

The National Alliance Against Zionism (ANAZ) has condemned airstrikes targeting Iranian cities including Tehran, Qom, Isfahan and Karaj as serious violations of the UN Charter and international law. ANAZ spokesperson Mukhlisin Turkan characterised the attacks on populated urban centres as state terrorism aimed at triggering open conflict to mask Israel's domestic failures, whilst declaring support for Iran's right to self-defence.

Ferry Irwandi Explains Economics Simply Through Prinsipil Ekonomi Book

Ferry Irwandi, co-founder of Malaka, has published his first book "Prinsipil Ekonomi" (Economic Principles), which aims to make economics accessible to the general public by connecting it to everyday decisions rather than abstract financial concepts. The book has already sold 20,000 copies and achieved national best-seller status in less than two months, with prominent figures including former Trade Minister Tom Lembong endorsing its approach to simplifying fundamental economic concepts.

Commission III Holds Hearing on Death of Boy Allegedly Beaten by Stepmother

Commission III of the Indonesian House of Representatives held a hearing regarding the death of 12-year-old Nizam Sapei, who died following alleged abuse by his stepmother in Sukabumi, West Java. The investigation has revealed that the abuse reportedly lasted for years and may have involved other family members, with the stepmother identified as a suspect facing charges of physical and psychological violence resulting in the child's death.

PKS Urges Prabowo to Communicate with Trump on Iran Conflict

PKS Vice Chair of Commission I in Parliament Sukamta has expressed support for President Prabowo Subianto's intention to mediate the Iran-Israel-US conflict, despite acknowledging significant obstacles. Sukamta highlighted Prabowo's established relationship with US President Trump as a valuable negotiating asset, whilst former Vice President Jusuf Kalla expressed scepticism about Indonesia's ability to broker peace given its unequal standing with the United States.

11 Flights on Soetta-Middle East Route Cancelled Today, Check the List Here

Eleven flights on the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport to Middle East route were cancelled on Monday, 2 March 2026, due to airspace closure policies in that region. Cumulatively, 38 flights on the Soetta-Middle East route have been cancelled since Saturday, 28 February. The airport management has implemented service recovery measures including providing refreshments to affected passengers and ensuring timely communication with airlines regarding rescheduling and refund processes.

Ramadan Inflation Trends 2022-2025: Food and Beverages Drive Prices

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reports that Ramadan inflation has persistently affected the Consumer Price Index over the past five years, with 2025 recording the highest rate at 1.65%. Food, beverages, and tobacco have been the primary drivers of Ramadan inflation, though 2026's inflation has been notably propelled by gold prices rising 8.42% year-on-year.

Viral Video Shows ART Allegedly Assaulted in Sunter Agung, North Jakarta; Police Investigate

A viral video circulating on social media allegedly shows a domestic worker (ART) being assaulted by multiple individuals, including what appears to be her employer, in the Sunter Agung area of North Jakarta. The video depicts the victim being struck, kicked, and beaten with a belt-like object whilst being verbally confronted.

Try Sutrisno in the Eyes of Pramono Anung: A Statesman Who Embraced All Sectors

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has paid tribute to Indonesia's sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno, who passed away on Monday morning, describing him as a visionary leader capable of uniting various segments of society. Pramono, who knew Try Sutrisno since 1995, highlighted the late statesman's unwavering commitment to constitutional principles and Pancasila ideology, noting that his dedication to these ideals remained steadfast even as he approached 90 years of age.

Jakarta to Establish Independent Cattle Fattening Centre to Achieve Meat Self-Sufficiency

Jakarta's provincial government, through state-owned enterprise Perumda Dharma Jaya, plans to establish an independent cattle fattening centre in Caingir, Banten, to secure beef supply and stabilise prices in the capital. The initiative aims to ensure self-sufficiency in meat stock and operational efficiency, whilst Dharma Jaya also imports approximately 7,500 Australian cattle to meet demand during Ramadan and Eid festivities.

Seven Iranian Nuclear Scientists Killed by Israel: A Complete List

Israel has allegedly killed seven Iranian nuclear scientists since 2010 as part of a sustained campaign to disrupt Iran's nuclear programme. The killings, including strikes in June 2025 and earlier assassination attempts, have targeted senior nuclear physicists and engineers integral to Iran's atomic development, whilst Israel claims the operations are necessary to prevent nuclear weapons proliferation and protect regional security.

Body of Try Sutrisno to be Buried at Kalibata Heroes' Cemetery Near Ani Yudhoyono and BJ Habibie

Indonesia's sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno, who died on 2 March 2026 at the age of 90, will be buried at Kalibata Heroes' Cemetery in South Jakarta in close proximity to other national figures including former President BJ Habibie and Ani Yudhoyono. Sutrisno had been receiving treatment at RSPAD Gatot Soebroto military hospital since 16 February 2026 following a decline in appetite, with his son attributing his death to age-related health deterioration.

Constitutional Court Rejects Hasto's Challenge on "Obstruction of Justice" Provision

The Constitutional Court (MK) has rejected a judicial review petition filed by PDI Perjuangan Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto challenging Article 21 of the Anti-Corruption Law regarding obstruction of justice provisions. The court determined the petition was inadmissible because an earlier decision (71/PUU-XXIII/2025) had already partially granted a similar petition, declaring the contested phrase "directly or indirectly" unconstitutional, leaving the current petition without legal object.

Labour Minister Yassierli Remembers Try Sutrisno: A Figure Who Set an Example for Us

Labour Minister Yassierli paid his respects to Indonesia's sixth Vice President Try Sutrisno, who passed away on 2 March 2026 at Gatot Soebroto Military Hospital in Jakarta, describing him as an exemplary figure who contributed greatly to the nation. Yassierli, who knew Sutrisno since their university days, emphasised the significant loss for Indonesia and offered prayers that Sutrisno's good deeds in life would be rewarded in the afterlife.

Try Sutrisno Passes Away; Didik J. Rachbini: Indonesia Loses Another Statesman

Try Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth Vice President, has passed away at RSPAD Gatot Soebroto Hospital in Central Jakarta on Monday, 2 March 2026. Paramadina University Rector Didik J. Rachbini reflected on Sutrisno's legacy as a steadfast nationalist and vocal critic who championed Pancasila values and warned against Indonesia's drift towards Western liberalism and away from its founding principles.

Central Java Roads Assured to be Motorcycle-Friendly for Lebaran Holiday Travel

Indonesia's Public Works Ministry has pledged to ensure road infrastructure readiness across Central Java for the 2026 Lebaran holiday exodus, prioritising the improvement of national roads that will accommodate approximately 70 per cent of motorcycle traffic. Efforts include accelerated road preservation, drainage system upgrades, embankment reinforcement near railway lines, and coordinated traffic management to ensure safe and smooth passage during peak travel periods.

KISI Keeps IPO Plans on Track with Deals Up to Rp 3T Amid Market Caution

Korea Investment and Securities Indonesia (KISI) maintains its initial public offering (IPO) pipeline of seven to eight companies with deals valued up to Rp 3 trillion despite cautious market sentiment driven by global uncertainty and MSCI concerns. The brokerage emphasises that IPO preparations typically take six months to a year, making them less vulnerable to short-term market fluctuations, with half of the pipeline expected to realise in early 2026. KISI remains optimistic about increased IPO activity in the second half of 2026 as government efforts to resolve regulatory issues and improved monetary policy support stronger investor confidence.

PNJ Student Borrowed UI Alumni Jacket to Participate in Demonstration at Police Headquarters

A Jakarta State Polytechnic (PNJ) student borrowed a University of Indonesia (UI) alumni jacket to participate in a protest at the National Police Headquarters in South Jakarta on 27 February 2026. The incident came to light when the UI Student Council Coordinator for Social and Political Affairs confirmed the borrowed jacket claim, while noting that the student, though not a UI member, was exercising his right to protest.

Pramono Views Family Development as Long-Term Investment

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has stated that family development plays a strategic role as a long-term investment and foundational capital for Jakarta's transformation into a global city.

Alleged Embezzlement and Theft Behind Employee Detention Claims at Sunter Expedition Facility

Police in North Jakarta are investigating allegations of embezzlement and theft at J&T Express following an incident involving six employees reportedly confined at a warehouse in Sunter, Tanjung Priok. The expedition company filed a report with North Jakarta Metropolitan Police regarding the alleged embezzlement and theft, claiming the detention allegations were spread by irresponsible parties and sparked public unrest.

BPS Reports 69 Consecutive Months of Trade Surplus

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reported a trade surplus of 0.95 billion US dollars in January 2026, marking 69 consecutive months of surplus since May 2020. The surplus was driven by strong non-oil and gas commodity exports, particularly to China, the United States, and India, whilst oil and gas products remained in deficit.

What is Ahlussunnah Wal Jamaah? History and Core Principles

Ahlussunnah Wal Jamaah refers to the Muslim community that adheres strictly to the Qur'an and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad, representing approximately 85-90% of the global Muslim population and constituting mainstream Sunni Islam. The term developed systematically during the 2nd-3rd centuries of the Hijri calendar as a theological response to emerging Islamic sects, with its doctrines consolidated in the 4th Hijri century through scholars such as al-Ash'ari and al-Maturidi.

SKK Migas Supports Chemical Injection Field Trial at Meruap Field in Jambi

SKK Migas has endorsed a chemical injection field trial at the Meruap oilfield in Jambi, marking the first such trial in the joint operation between Pertamina EP and Samudera Energy. The project aims to optimise production from mature fields through Improved Oil Recovery (IOR) techniques, targeting a 16 per cent increase in hydrocarbon recovery and an additional 280 barrels of oil per day across three injection patterns.

Indonesian Exports to US and China Surge in January 2026, Here Are the Commodities

Indonesia's exports rose 3.39% year-on-year in January 2026 to USD 22.16 billion, with particularly strong growth to the United States, China, and India, which collectively account for 43.77% of non-oil exports. China remained the largest destination at USD 5.27 billion, driven by nickel products (up 61.72%), whilst exports to the US reached USD 2.51 billion, boosted by electrical machinery and footwear.

Before Travelling Home, Check the Regulations for Eid Holiday Ferry Crossings at These Ports

The Indonesian Ministry of Transport, in coordination with the National Police Traffic Corps and Public Works Ministry, has issued joint regulations for passenger and cargo crossings at seven major ferry ports during the 2026 Eid holiday travel period (11–29 March 2026).

East Kalimantan Governor's Rp 8.49 Billion Official Vehicle Already Handed Over in Jakarta

East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas'ud has decided to return a newly purchased official vehicle worth Rp 8.499 billion (a Range Rover 3.0 LWB Autobiography PHEV P460e) following public criticism. The vehicle was formally handed over on 20 November 2025 but remains in Jakarta, with the supplier agreeing to accept the return following the Governor's directive in response to community concerns.

Should You Play Padel During Ramadan? Hear What Doctors Advise

A doctor from Sari Asih Ciputat Hospital in Tangerang advises that playing padel during Ramadan fasting is permissible if participants manage time and duration carefully, preferring doubles matches in air-conditioned indoor courts to minimise fluid loss.

Fadli Zon: Our Culture Is Not Only Rich but Also Ancient

Indonesia's Culture Minister Fadli Zon has emphasised that Indonesia possesses an extraordinary cultural heritage spanning both quantity and historical depth, with 2,727 registered intangible cultural properties and potential tens of thousands more in verification.

Economic Coordination Ministry Spokesman Emphasises Agricultural Imports from US as Private Sector Responsibility Without APBN Use

Indonesia's Economic Coordination Ministry has clarified that the commitment to facilitate USD 4.5 billion in agricultural product imports from the United States under the bilateral Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) is a policy-driven facilitation for business-to-business cooperation, not government-financed purchases from the state budget. The imports form part of Indonesia's strategy to maintain balanced trade relations with the US, its second-largest export destination, whilst protecting national competitiveness.

Global Gold Prices Rise Amid US-Israel-Iran Conflict Escalation

Global gold prices strengthened at the start of the week, rising 1.56 per cent to $5,361.075 per troy ounce as geopolitical tensions escalated in the Middle East involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, driving investors toward safe-haven assets. Gold has surged approximately 25 per cent since the beginning of the year, with analysts viewing the precious metal as a favoured hedge against risk in uncertain markets.

Indonesia records 4.76 per cent annual inflation in February 2026

Indonesia's year-on-year inflation reached 4.76 per cent in February 2026, with the Consumer Price Index rising from 105.48 in February 2025 to 110.50 in February 2026, according to the Central Bureau of Statistics. Monthly inflation stood at 0.68 per cent and year-to-date inflation at 0.53 per cent.

In the Eyes of the TNI Commander, Try Sutrisno Was a Disciplined and Focused Soldier

General Agus Subiyanto, the TNI Commander, has praised the late General Try Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth Vice President and former ABRI Commander, as a disciplined soldier and exemplary figure who continued to serve the TNI until his death. Try Sutrisno passed away at the Gatot Soebroto Army Central Hospital in Jakarta on Monday, 2 March 2026, and is scheduled to be buried at the Kalibata Heroes Cemetery.

Police Chief: 161,000 Combined Personnel Deployed to Ensure Safe Eid Exodus and Return

Indonesia's National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo announced the deployment of 161,243 combined personnel across government agencies and the military for Operation Ketupat 2026 to ensure the safety of approximately 143.9 million people travelling for Eid al-Fitr celebrations.

Iran Lodges Complaint with UN, Threatens Broad Consequences Over Khamenei's Death

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has sent a letter to the UN Secretary-General and Security Council members following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei in what Iran attributes to US and Israeli attacks, warning of "profound and far-reaching consequences" for those responsible.

When Will the Isbat Session to Determine Eid al-Fitr 2026 Be Held?

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs will hold an isbat session on 19 March 2025 to determine the exact date of Eid al-Fitr 2026 (1 Syawal 1447 Hijriah), coinciding with the 29th day of Ramadan. The session will involve multiple stakeholders including astronomy experts from BMKG and BRIN, Islamic organisations, and monitoring stations across Indonesia to verify crescent moon sightings and provide a religiously legitimate determination of the Islamic holiday.

Constitutional Court Rejects Hasto Kristiyanto's Challenge to Anti-Corruption Investigation Obstruction Provision

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has rejected a legal challenge by PDIP Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto against Article 21 of the Anti-Corruption Law, citing that a previous court decision had already rendered the article's unconstitutional language void. The Court had previously ruled that the phrase "directly or indirectly" in the investigation obstruction provision was unconstitutionally vague and could be weaponised arbitrarily against journalists, activists, and legal professionals.

Body of Try Sutrisno, Sixth Vice President of Indonesia, Arrives at Sunda Kelapa Mosque for Final Prayer

The body of Try Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth Vice President, has arrived at the Grand Sunda Kelapa Mosque in Jakarta's central district draped in the national red and white flag for funeral prayers before burial at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery on Monday, 2 March 2026. Sutrisno, aged 90, died on Monday morning at RSPAD Gatot Subroto Military Hospital, with his son Taufik Dwi Cahyono attributing his death to advanced age rather than any specific illness.

ABN Completes Investment in MUFG Subsidiary, Strengthens Indonesia-Japan Financial Synergy

PT Affirmate Bisnis Nusantara (ABN) has completed its investment commitment in PT BOT Finance Indonesia, a subsidiary of Japan's MUFG Finance & Leasing Co., Ltd., following Financial Services Authority (OJK) approval in January 2026. The strategic investment aims to strengthen financial cooperation between Indonesia and Japan whilst opening new funding opportunities and supporting cross-border corporate growth. ABN, part of the Affirmate Group since 2019, continues to focus on deepening economic partnerships and business collaboration between the two nations.

Iran-Israel Conflict Heats Up, BEI Chief Urges Investors to Remain Rational

Escalating military tensions between Iran and Israel are roiling global financial markets and weighing on Indonesia's capital market. Acting Chief Executive of Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) Jeffrey Hendrik has urged investors to remain calm and rational, reminding them that market volatility during geopolitical uncertainty often reflects short-term sentiment rather than fundamental company valuations, and advised adjusting investment strategies according to individual risk tolerance.

Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education Confirms Education Budget Increase Will Not Cut Free Nutritious Meal Programme Allocation

Indonesia's Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has affirmed that the 2026 education budget increase will not reduce funding for the Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG). The budget expansion, directed by President Prabowo Subianto, will instead support presidential directives including school revitalisation, digital interactive boards in classrooms, and teacher welfare allowances.

Commission III of House of Representatives Mourns Death of Sixth Vice-President Try Sutrisno and Chair of KPAI

Commission III of the House of Representatives held a public hearing regarding the death of Nizam Syafei, an 8-year-old boy in Sukabumi, West Java, who allegedly died at the hands of his stepmother. The Commission expressed deep condolences over the child's death and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the investigation proceeds according to law, whilst also mourning the deaths of KPAI Chair Margaret Aliyatul Maimunah and former Vice-President Try Sutrisno.

Constitutional Court Amends Obstruction of Investigation Clause, Deeming It "Rubber Paragraph"

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has amended Article 21 of the Anti-Corruption Law, striking down the phrase "directly or indirectly" for being overly vague and potentially weaponisable against lawyers, journalists, and activists. The Court ruled that the ambiguous language could be misused by law enforcement to prosecute legitimate anti-corruption activities and undermines legal certainty.

Biofarma Chief Responds to BPOM's WHO Listed Authority Status

The Director-General of Bio Farma, Shadiq Akasya, has welcomed Indonesia's pharmaceutical regulatory authority (BPOM) achieving WHO Listed Authority (WLA) status, recognising it as validation of Indonesian drug quality standards internationally. This status places BPOM on par with leading regulators such as Australia's TGA and is expected to facilitate drug certification, expand market access to 150 countries, and boost domestic pharmaceutical self-sufficiency.

BMKG: Peak of Total Lunar Eclipse Begins Tomorrow Evening

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has announced that the peak of a total lunar eclipse visible from Indonesia will occur on Tuesday, 3 March in the evening local time, with timing varying by region (18:33:39 WIB, 19:33:39 WITA, and 20:33:39 WIT). The overall eclipse will last 5 hours and 41 minutes, with the totality phase lasting 59 minutes and 27 seconds, during which the Moon may appear reddish due to light refraction in Earth's atmosphere.

Free Motorcycle Mudik Service for Eid, KAI Yogyakarta Operates Two Routes

Indonesia's Directorate General of Railways has launched the free motorcycle transport programme (Motis) for the 2026 Eid holiday season, with registration opening on 1 March 2026. PT Kereta Api Indonesia through KAI Daerah Operasi 6 Yogyakarta offers two main services: the Motis Central route between Lempuyangan-Kampung Bandan and the Motis South route between Madiun-Kampung Bandan, designed to provide safer and more efficient holiday travel while reducing traffic congestion.

Five Free Lebaran Exodus Programmes in Jakarta and Surrounding Areas: Check Requirements and Schedule

Jakarta's provincial government and state-owned enterprises (BUMN) are offering five free exodus (mudik) programmes for the 2026 Lebaran holiday to help residents travel home safely whilst reducing traffic congestion and accident risks. The initiatives include the Jakarta Regional Government's free mudik programme with online registration from 22 February to 2 March 2026, and PLN's "Safe Exodus 2026 Sharing Hope" programme offering 12,500 national quotas with bus and train services from Jakarta.

Governor of East Kalimantan Apologises Over 8.49 Billion Rupiah Official Vehicle

Rudy Mas'ud, Governor of East Kalimantan, has apologised and cancelled plans to procure an official gubernatorial vehicle valued at 8.49 billion rupiah following public backlash. The governor stated that the decision to cancel the procurement, announced through social media on Monday, 2 March 2026, was made after listening to citizens' concerns and will not impede government performance or public services.

Pramono Remembers Try Sutrisno as a Figure Who Embraced Everyone

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has paid his respects to the late sixth Vice President of Indonesia, Try Sutrisno, describing him as a national elder statesman who embraced all people. Pramono, who had known Try Sutrisno since 1995, noted that despite declining health in recent months, Try Sutrisno's spirit remained undiminished until his death at the age of nearly 90, remaining actively involved in the Pancasila Ideology Development Board (BPIP).

Indonesia Records Trade Surplus of US$0.95 Billion in January 2026

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reported a trade surplus of US$0.95 billion in January 2026, driven by exports valued at US$22.16 billion and imports at US$21.20 billion. Whilst exports grew 3.39 per cent year-on-year, primarily from the manufacturing sector, imports surged 18.21 per cent year-on-year, largely from non-mineral commodities.

Constitutional Court Rejects Smoking While Driving Ban Challenge, Cites Insufficient Evidence

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has rejected a petition challenging the traffic law provision requiring "full concentration" whilst driving, ruling the petition inadmissible due to the petitioner's failure to provide adequate evidence and absence from proceedings. The petitioner had sought to establish that the vague wording created a legal loophole permitting smoking while driving, arguing that explicit prohibition was necessary as smoking distracts drivers by requiring one hand off the wheel.

Inhu Police Organise Running Race in Traditional Tanjak: Preserving Culture and Preventing Wild Racing

The Indragiri Hulu Police Force organised the Rengat Night Run, a 100-metre evening running event that combines Malay cultural preservation through the use of traditional tanjak clothing with environmental awareness initiatives and green policing efforts.

BPS Reports February 2026 Inflation Surges to 0.68%

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reported monthly inflation of 0.68% in February 2026, driven primarily by rising food prices during the Ramadan period, with year-to-date inflation at 0.53%. Of the 34 provinces monitored, 33 experienced inflation whilst 5 recorded deflation, with South Sulawesi recording the highest inflation at 1.04%. The inflationary pressure was concentrated in food, beverages and tobacco, which rose 1.

Analysts Project Rupiah Weakening Amid US-Iran Conflict

Currency analysts at Doo Financial Futures project the Indonesian rupiah will weaken to between 16,750-16,900 per US dollar on Monday as investors flee risky assets following escalating military conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran in the Middle East. Bank Indonesia is expected to intervene to stabilise the currency, as regional tensions following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei trigger global risk-off sentiment affecting emerging market currencies.

Bandung City Regional Assembly Accelerates Draft Regulation on Public Order, Peace and Community Protection

The Special Committee 13 of Bandung City's Regional Assembly is intensively discussing a draft regional regulation on public order, peace, and community protection. The regulation, comprising 63 articles across 18 chapters, aims to strengthen city governance through comprehensive rules covering road traffic, social order, health regulations, environmental cleanliness, and street vendor arrangements.

Business Competition in the Perspective of Islamic Economics

This article explores fair market competition through an Islamic economic lens, arguing that Islamic law emphasises transparent and distortion-free market mechanisms beyond mere halal certification.

Minister of Immigration and Corrections: Try Sutrisno a True Bhayangkara Soldier who Served Tirelessly

The Minister of Immigration and Corrections (Imipas), Agus Andrianto, has praised the late Vice President Try Sutrisno as a true soldier and Bhayangkara officer who dedicated his life to the nation and its people. Agus highlighted that Try Sutrisno's legacy of service extended to his family members, including his son Firman Santyabudi, who served as head of the National Police Traffic Corps.

Public Works Minister: Toll Road Fare Discount for Eid Holidays to Be Applied for Four Days

Indonesia's Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has announced plans to implement toll road fare discounts during the Eid holiday period in March 2026, covering four days split between the outbound and return journeys. The discount, approximately 30 percent for all vehicle classes, will apply to users travelling long distances via toll roads using electronic payment methods on 15-16 March and 26-27 March 2026, with certain toll segments receiving discounts on alternative dates.

Prolonged Hormuz Strait Closure Could Trigger Global Recession

Experts warn that a prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical international fuel distribution route, could trigger a global recession as a consequence of escalating Israel-Iran conflict. Rising energy prices coupled with currency depreciation and potential market instability pose significant risks to global economic activity, with the VIX volatility index already rising 52 per cent since early 2026.

BMKG Issues Alert for Heavy Rain and Strong Winds in Jakarta Metropolitan Area Today

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a weather alert for the Jakarta metropolitan area (Jabodetabek) on Monday, warning of potential light to moderate rainfall accompanied by lightning and strong winds. The agency forecasts cloudy to heavily cloudy conditions throughout the region over the next 24 hours, with wind speeds reaching 5–45 kilometres per hour from the southwest to west, and temperatures ranging between 20–30 degrees Celsius.

North Toraja Narcotics Chief to Face Ethics Tribunal After Allegedly Receiving Weekly Payments from Methamphetamine Dealer

Senior Police Commissioner AKP Arifandi Efendi, head of the North Toraja narcotics unit, is scheduled to face an ethics tribunal after being accused of receiving Rp13 million weekly from a methamphetamine trafficker operating in Tana Toraja district. The police officer was detained at South Sulawesi Police headquarters from 18–20 February with his detention extended by three days, following allegations that he attempted to destroy evidence and engaged in ethical violations.

First Sighting of "Moth Star": Astronomers Discover Protective Shield Similar to the Sun on Alien Star

Astronomers have for the first time confirmed the existence of a heliosphere-like structure, called an "astrosphere," around the young star HD 61005, approximately 100 million years old. Using data from NASA's Chandra Observatory and the Hubble telescope, scientists imaged the star's protective magnetic bubble and its distinctive dust tail resembling moth wings, revealing insights into how young planetary systems evolve in their cosmic environment.

Academic Capability Test Simulation for Primary School Level Now Open, Here's How to Access It

The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has opened access to the Academic Capability Test (TKA) simulation for primary school students to familiarise themselves with the exam format, system, and procedures before sitting the actual test. The simulation is available at pusmendik.kemdikbud.go.id/tka/simulasi_tka, with the actual TKA for primary schools scheduled for 20-30 April 2026 and covering Indonesian language and mathematics subjects.

Strait of Hormuz Closed by Iran, Is the World Facing an Energy Crisis?

Iran has officially closed the Strait of Hormuz in retaliation for a reported combined military strike by the United States and Israel that killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, triggering global energy market turmoil. Approximately 20 per cent of global oil supply and 20 per cent of liquefied natural gas shipments transit this critical waterway daily, with crude oil prices projected to surge from US$67 to potentially US$90–100 per barrel, risking new inflationary pressures worldwide.

A Look at the Splendour of Malioboro Imlek Carnival in Yogyakarta

The 21st Yogyakarta Chinese Culture Week (PBTY) hosted the Malioboro Imlek Carnival on 28 February 2026, celebrating Indonesia's cultural diversity with the theme "Cultural Heritage, National Strength". The event featured traditional lion dancers and was held along Malioboro Street, showcasing the integration of Chinese cultural traditions within Indonesia's multicultural framework.

Indonesia's Reference Coal Price Falls for Early March 2026

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has officially established the Reference Coal Price (HBA) for the first period of March 2026, with mixed movements across coal categories. Highest-calorific and Category I coal prices declined, whilst Category II and III coal prices increased, reflecting shifting global energy demand dynamics.

Cooking Oil Prices Rise Despite Falls in Shallots and Small Red Chillies, Check the List

Bank Indonesia's Strategic Food Price Information Centre (PIHPS) has reported mixed price movements in staple food commodities, with cooking oil prices increasing whilst shallot and small red chilli prices decline. Bulk cooking oil rose to IDR 19,200 per litre and branded cooking oil increased to IDR 22,850 per litre, whilst shallots fell to IDR 44,850 per kilogramme and small red chillies dropped to IDR 79,400 per kilogramme.

ASDP Ensures Readiness for Eid Homecoming Crossings in Kepri

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry has confirmed preparations for the 2026 Eid holiday homecoming period in the Riau Islands, strengthening ferry fleets, increasing voyage frequencies, and optimising operational patterns to manage expected surges in passenger and vehicle traffic. The state-owned company projects a 15 per cent increase in transport capacity at Telaga Punggur and Tanjung Uban ports, with each facility expected to handle over 60,000 passengers and 17,000 vehicles during the peak period.

Military Commander Always Receives Counsel from Try Sutrisno at Every Meeting

Military Commander General Agus Subiyanto has expressed profound condolences over the death of former Vice President and former ABRI Commander General Try Sutrisno, describing him as an exemplary soldier who consistently offered valuable counsel for TNI's advancement. Try Sutrisno, who passed away at the Armed Forces Hospital, will be buried at Heroes' Cemetery Kalibata, with his funeral arrangements proceeding that same day.

MUI Issues 9 Positions on US-Israeli Attacks Against Iran, Urges Indonesia to Withdraw from BoP

The Indonesian Ulama Council (MUI) has issued nine formal positions condemning US and Israeli military attacks against Iran, particularly noting their occurrence during the holy month of Ramadan. The statement calls for international unity and respect for Islamic sanctity, with MUI urging Indonesia to withdraw from certain international arrangements, though the specific positions are not detailed in the provided excerpt.

Gulf Cooperation Council considers response to Iranian missile and drone attacks

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) stated on Sunday that it is considering a response to Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting several member states, warning it will take all necessary measures to protect regional security and stability. The council condemned the attacks on the UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, and Kuwait as violations of sovereignty and international law, emphasizing that the security of member states is inseparable under their mutual defence agreement.

Indonesia's Trade Balance Records 69th Consecutive Surplus, Here's What's Supporting It

Indonesia's Central Bureau of Statistics has reported a trade surplus of US$960 million in January 2026, marking the 69th consecutive monthly surplus since May 2021. The surplus is driven by non-mineral commodity exports, particularly vegetable and animal fats and oils, whilst the mineral sector continues to run a deficit of US$2.27 billion, with the United States, India, and the Philippines being the three largest contributors to the overall trade surplus.

Muhammadiyah Mourns Passing of Try Sutrisno

Muhammadiyah's Central Leadership has expressed condolences following the death of Indonesia's sixth Vice President, Try Sutrisno, at the age of 90. The organisation's chairman Haedar Nashir praised Sutrisno as a dedicated statesman who consistently placed national interests above personal concerns and remained engaged in discussions on critical national issues throughout his life.

Strategy for Licensing Reforms and Acceleration of Mining Investment

Indonesia's mining sector faces a critical transition requiring both structural transformation towards value-added industries and adaptation to external pressures from global commodity price volatility. The government must accelerate strategic mining projects whilst maintaining ESG standards, with particular focus on compliance-based clustering for brownfield operations and value-added greenfield projects such as smelters and refineries. Effective policy implementation requires institutional strengthening at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, regulatory clarity, and alignment between technical regulators and law enforcement to attract sustainable investment.

Minister of Religious Affairs Invites Economists to Collaborate on Strengthening Religious Fund Management Governance

Indonesia's Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar has called for Islamic economists and practitioners to collaborate with the government in transforming the management of religious funds including zakat, infak, waqf, and sadaqah.

Ahok appears as witness in Pertamina LNG procurement corruption case hearing

Basuki Tjahaja Purnama (Ahok), former chairman of Pertamina during 2019-2024, appeared as a witness at the Corruption Court hearing for an alleged liquefied natural gas (LNG) procurement fraud case involving Pertamina spanning 2011-2021. Two defendants—former Gas Directorate head Hari Karyuliarto and vice president Yenni Andayani—are accused of causing state financial losses of USD 113.84 million (approximately Rp1.

Primary School Building at Gadung Sari, Tabanan Remains Severely Damaged for Three Years as Students Share Classrooms

A building with three classrooms at State Primary School 1 Gadung Sari in Tabanan Regency, Bali has remained severely damaged since 2022 when heavy rains and strong winds caused the roof to collapse. The 44 students and seven teachers have been forced to share cramped spaces, with classes II through VI combined in a single room divided by partitions.

Former Armed Forces Commander Wiranto Remembers Try Sutrisno: Obedient to the Constitution

Former Armed Forces Commander (ABRI) Wiranto has paid tribute to the late Try Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth Vice President, remembering him as a humble figure devoted to constitutional principles and the public interest. Wiranto, now the President's Special Adviser for Politics and Security, described Sutrisno as someone who always prioritised the welfare of the people and upheld truth, offering his example as a model for both military personnel and current state officials.

BPS records Indonesia's early 2026 trade balance surplus of $0.95 billion

Indonesia's Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) reported a trade balance surplus of $0.95 billion in January 2026, with exports reaching $22.16 billion and imports at $21.20 billion. Exports grew 3.39 per cent year-on-year, driven primarily by the non-oil and gas sector and manufacturing industries, whilst imports surged 18.21 per cent year-on-year, largely from non-oil and gas products.

From the Negotiating Table to the Battlefield: Trump Orders Attack on Iran

The United States launched a major military operation against Iran on 28 February after diplomatic talks in Geneva failed to reach agreement on Iran's nuclear programme, with Trump citing Iran's refusal to halt uranium enrichment and nuclear weapons development.

Artha Graha Peduli Deploys 600 Saber Teams and Distributes Shopping Vouchers

Artha Graha Peduli has deployed 600 personnel from its Sapu Bersih Artha Graha Peduli (Saber AGP) team to support the Harmoni Imlek Nusantara 2026 celebration at Lapangan Banteng, combining environmental stewardship with social responsibility. The initiative includes distributing Rp100,000 shopping vouchers to attendees and implementing digital payment solutions through QRIS with cashback incentives to support UMKM retailers and accelerate digital transformation.

Coal Exports Plunge 16%, While CPO Surges 59.6%

Indonesia's export performance for key commodities in January 2026 showed mixed results, with coal exports declining 16.04% year-on-year to USD 1.82 billion and iron and steel falling 0.13% to USD 2.12 billion. Crude palm oil (CPO) was the standout performer, surging 59.63% to USD 2.29 billion, with volume exports up 77.07%, according to Statistics Indonesia's Deputy for Statistical Distribution and Services.

Gold Price Today 2 March 2026: Antam Products Surge to Rp 3.135 Million per Gram

Gold prices from PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) have surged to Rp 3.135 million per gram on 2 March 2026, marking a Rp 50,000 increase from the previous trading day, whilst buyback prices stand at Rp 2.914 million per gram. Antam's prices for various gold denominations, ranging from 0.5 grammes to 1,000 grammes, are detailed with the understanding that these prices exclude tax, subject to withholding tax provisions under Indonesian Regulation PMK No. 34/PMK.10/2017.

PKB remembers Try Sutrisno as a firm and critical figure

The PKB parliamentary faction, through its leader Jazilul Fawaid, has commemorated the late sixth Vice President of Indonesia, Try Sutrisno, who recently passed away, describing him as a steadfast statesman who remained firm and critical in defending national values.

Death of Try Sutrisno: TNI Loses One of Its Greatest Soldiers

General Try Sutrisno, former Commander of the Armed Forces (Panglima ABRI) and Indonesia's sixth Vice President, has passed away at the Central Military Hospital (RSPAD) Gatot Soebroto in Jakarta. TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto paid tribute to Sutrisno as a disciplined and exemplary military figure who remained committed to the armed forces despite declining health, describing his loss as irreplaceable.

Anthropic AI Found Being Used for Iran Attack, Despite Trump's Recent Ban

The US military has been revealed to be continuing use of Anthropic's Claude AI technology in military operations against Iran, just hours after President Donald Trump issued an official ban on the technology.

Energy Self-Sufficiency, a Mandatory Foundation for Indonesia's Golden 2045

This opinion piece argues that energy self-sufficiency is a critical prerequisite for Indonesia's vision of becoming a developed nation by 2045, not merely a sectoral policy but a national imperative. The author emphasises that true energy autonomy requires comprehensive development across primary energy supply, domestic infrastructure and technology capabilities, and strategic reserves, whilst simultaneously supporting industrialisation and equitable development.

Sports Minister Erick: Ministry of Youth and Sports Implements Zero Tolerance Policy on Harassment Cases at Rock Climbing National Training Centre

Indonesia's Minister of Youth and Sports Erick Thohir has strongly condemned allegations of physical violence and sexual harassment at the rock climbing national training centre, where the number of reporting athletes has increased to ten.

PNJ Student Who Shouted at Police During Protest Not Registered in Official Rally

A Politeknik Negeri Jakarta student who was filmed shouting and pointing at police officers during a demonstration at National Police Headquarters on 27 February 2026 was not registered as part of the official student action group, according to the institution's internal investigation. The student attended the protest in a personal capacity and has been summoned by the campus for disciplinary proceedings under student conduct regulations.

Obscure App Suddenly Surges to Become Number One Ranked

Claude by Anthropic has rapidly ascended to the top position in Apple's free apps ranking for the United States, jumping from 131st place just a month earlier, surpassing ChatGPT to claim the top spot.

Head of National Food Agency and Agriculture Minister: Chilli and chicken meat prices begin to decline

Indonesia's Head of the National Food Agency (Bapanas) and Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman reported that prices for red chilli and chicken meat are showing a downward trend as supply improves and government stabilisation measures take effect across regions. According to Bapanas price panel data from 23 February to 1 March 2026, red chilli prices demonstrated significant and consistent decline, whilst chicken meat prices remained relatively stable and dropped approximately 1.

CTARSA Foundation Launches 'Kalcer' Roadshow for Ramadan 1447 H

CTARSA Foundation has launched "Kalcer" (Kala Ceria Ramadan), a massive social welfare programme during Ramadan 1447 H, with a 10-day roadshow across seven cities in West Java and Central Java. The initiative, which includes a mobile kitchen, education vehicle, and campervan, will also operate at 19 locations across Indonesia from Aceh to East Nusa Tenggara, culminating in a major gathering on 13 March 2026 with 200 orphaned children and relief distribution.

BEI: Investors Must Remain Rational Amid Middle East Conflict

The Indonesian Stock Exchange (BEI) has urged investors to maintain rationality and rely on fundamental analysis amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, following coordinated US-Israeli airstrikes on Iran.

Breaking: Indonesia Records Trade Balance Surplus of US$960 Million in January 2026

Indonesia's trade balance recorded a surplus of US$960 million in January 2026, driven by exports of US$22.16 billion against imports of US$21.20 billion, according to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS). This marks the 69th consecutive month of trade surplus since May 2021, though the surplus declined from December 2025's US$2.51 billion and was lower than January 2025 figures. The moderation reflects a broader trend of cooling export growth and rising import activity in early 2026.

United States Withdraws Diplomatic Staff from Qatar Following Iranian Retaliatory Strike

The United States State Department has authorised non-emergency diplomatic staff and their families to leave Qatar following Iran's retaliatory attacks against American military bases and personnel in the region. The evacuation comes one day after a major joint US-Israeli strike against Iran and reflects escalating regional tensions, with Iran reportedly launching 65 missiles and 12 drones, resulting in at least three US military deaths and eight injured Qatari civilians.

Economists Warn Iran Conflict Tests Indonesia's Fiscal and Energy Resilience

Economists warn that escalating conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel poses significant risks to Indonesia's economy, particularly through rising oil prices and disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz, which carries approximately 20% of global oil supplies.

Police Investigate Viral Couple Stealing Fortuner Car Mirrors in North Jakarta

Police in Penjaringan, North Jakarta, are investigating a viral video showing a man and woman allegedly stealing a side mirror from a Toyota Fortuner vehicle on 28 February 2026. The suspects arrived on a motorcycle, and footage shows one perpetrator removing the right mirror before both fled the scene. Authorities are conducting CCTV analysis to identify the suspects.

DPR urges review of US-Indonesia trade pact

Indonesia's Deputy Chair of Commission IV has called for a comprehensive review of the US-Indonesia Agreement on Reciprocal Trade signed in February, citing concerns that over 20 articles disadvantage Indonesia by exempting US goods from local content requirements and potentially weakening the nation's industrialisation push.

Profile of Try Sutrisno: From Soekarno's Aide to Vice President

Former Vice President General Try Sutrisno (retired) has passed away on 2 March 2026 at the age of 90, ending a distinguished military career that saw him rise from aide-de-camp to Soekarno to Vice President during 1993–1998. Despite his high office, Sutrisno was largely sidelined by President Soekarno, who treated him as a "spare tyre" and failed to consult him on major decisions, ultimately selecting B.J. Habibie as his successor when the 1998 MPR session offered Sutrisno a second term.

Video: Rupiah Weakens as Oil Prices Touch Four-Year High

The US-Israel attack on Iran has triggered a major sell-off in global financial markets, causing the Indonesian stock exchange to plunge 2% and the rupiah to depreciate to Rp16,827 per US dollar. Oil prices have reached their highest levels in four years amid escalating Middle Eastern tensions, creating significant pressure on Indonesia's currency and equity markets.

Indonesian imports surge to US$21.20 billion in January 2026, rising 18.21%

Indonesia's imports reached US$21.20 billion in January 2026, marking an 18.21% increase compared to January 2025, according to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS). The growth was primarily driven by non-oil and gas commodity imports, which increased 16.71% to US$18.04 billion, whilst fuel imports rose 27.52% to US$3.17 billion, reflecting stronger international purchasing activity in the first month of the year.

Airlangga Remembers Try Sutrisno: Vice President During Indonesia's Critical Period

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto paid tribute to Try Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth vice president, who died at the Armed Forces Central Hospital in Jakarta on 2 March 2026. Airlangga commended Sutrisno's service during the critical 1993-1998 period and his subsequent contributions as a national figure on constitutional and unity matters.

Oman: Diplomatic Doors Remain Open Amid Joint US-Israeli Attacks on Iran

Oman's Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad al-Busaidi has reaffirmed that diplomatic channels remain open despite concurrent US and Israeli military strikes against Iran, urging conflicting parties to return to negotiations. Geneva talks between Iran and the United States have achieved substantial progress towards an unprecedented accord, with recent discussions reaching agreement on uranium enrichment limits and stock reduction under IAEA verification.

Evaluation of Subsidised Gas Recipients Needed to Ensure Proper Targeting and Impact

The Chairman of Commission XII of the Indonesian House of Representatives has called for a comprehensive evaluation of recipients of subsidised domestic gas (HGBT) to ensure the limited supply benefits the domestic economy rather than supporting export-oriented industries.

Gianyar Regency Government Maps Regional Assets to Support Expansion of Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units

Gianyar Regency in Bali is systematically mapping regional assets to support the expansion of Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG or Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units), with 17 kitchens already established covering 30 per cent of targets. The programme, known as MBG, provides supplementary nutrition to students, pregnant women, nursing mothers and toddlers, with Bali's National Nutrition Agency targeting 180 SPPG units across the province by 2026 to serve 507,000 beneficiaries.

University of Indonesia Clarifies Protester Pointing at Police Is Not Its Student

The University of Indonesia (UI) has clarified that a demonstrator who was filmed pointing at and verbally challenging police officers during a protest outside the National Police Headquarters is not a student of the institution. Following internal verification through official databases and faculty coordination, UI confirmed the individual is an active student at another tertiary institution with no academic affiliation to UI.

New LAPD Owner Ready to Purchase Public Shares at Rp51

PT JSI Sinergi Mas, the new controlling shareholder of PT Leyand International Tbk (LAPD), has launched a mandatory tender offer to purchase public shares at Rp51 per share, with a maximum transaction value of Rp84.2 billion.

Body of Former General Try Sutrisno Prayed Upon at Sunda Kelapa Mosque, Buried at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery

General TNI (Retired) Try Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth Vice President, passed away on 2 March at the age of 90 at the Central Army Hospital (RSPAD) in Jakarta. His funeral procession included a prayer service at the Grand Mosque of Sunda Kelapa, with subsequent burial at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery, attended by numerous national figures and government officials paying their respects.

Bareskrim Pursues Andre Fernando 'The Doctor', Drug Supplier to Erwin Ko

The Directorate of Narcotics Crime at Bareskrim Polri has issued a wanted person status (DPO) for Andre Fernando, alias 'The Doctor', a 32-year-old drug distributor accused of supplying methamphetamine to trafficker Erwin Iskandar. The case involves Ko Erwin's smuggling operation into Bima, Nusa Tenggara Barat, with two major transactions worth 400 million rupiah each occurring in January 2026, and implicates former police officials in the region.

PSI Mourns the Passing of Try Sutrisno: Indonesia Loses an Exemplary Figure

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has expressed deep condolences over the death of Try Sutrisno, Indonesia's sixth Vice President, who passed away at the age of 90 at RSPAD Gatot Subroto hospital. PSI General Secretary Raja Juli Antoni hailed Sutrisno as an exemplary figure who dedicated his life to the nation through his military service and vice-presidential tenure, characterising him as resolute yet humble.