Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 4 March 2026

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In observance of Nyepi, ASDP temporarily suspends Java–Bali ferry crossings

ASDP Indonesia Ferry will temporarily suspend ferry crossings on the Java–Bali and Lombok routes to honour Nyepi, with scheduled window closures at Ketapang, Gilimanuk, Lembar and Padangbai ports. The move, mandated by the Ministry of Transport, is intended to ease traffic during the Nyepi period and the approaching Lebaran 2026, with government traffic-management schemes and enhanced operational readiness to ensure safety and reliability.

Anger, Fear, and Trauma: The Heart-Rending Voices of Harassment Victims on the KRL

Women on Jakarta's KRL commuter trains report persistent sexual harassment, transforming evening commutes into a source of anxiety. Testimonies from Aisyah and others reveal that safety is about more than seating arrangements and requires a broader culture of respect on public transport. The incidents underscore the need for stronger protection and awareness, highlighting the trauma endured by female riders.

Two Padel Courts in North Jakarta Sealed for Lack of Permits

The CKTRP office in North Jakarta sealed two padel courts in Ancol and Penjaringan for lacking the required Building Approval (PBG). The action is an administrative sanction and there is no fixed deadline for the seal; the sites can reopen once the permits are obtained, with authorities offering assistance. Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung said the administration will review permits for the city’s 397 padel courts and enforce action against unauthorised venues, including closures or demolitions.

Antam secures supply via 3-tonne-per-year gold sales and purchase agreement

Antam has signed gold sales and purchase agreements with PT Bumi Suksesindo (BSI) and PT Puncak Emas Tani Sejahtera (PETS) for 3 metric tonnes of gold per year, each lasting two years, to secure domestic feedstock for the local gold industry. The deals position Antam as buyer and bolster the domestic supply chain from mining to refined gold, reinforcing ESG commitments and the strength of the national gold brand.

US Orders Its Citizens to Leave Qatar as Turkey Signals Potential Retaliation Against Iran

The United States has urged its citizens to leave Qatar amid threats of armed conflict. Turkey said NATO intercepted ballistic missiles fired from Iran and warned of retaliation, while Qatar emphasised it is not at war with Iran but will defend its sovereignty. The crisis has spilled into regional diplomacy and Indonesia's immigration authorities said they are on standby at air entry checkpoints as airspace closures continue.

Lecturer who sexually assaulted woman in Parepare minimarket arrested

Police in Parepare have arrested a university lecturer identified by the initials S for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman in a Parepare minimarket. CCTV footage aided the investigation, and the suspect reportedly admitted to the act during initial questioning. The case is being handled at Parepare Police Headquarters.

Modus Operandi of 13 Japanese Nationals' Online Scam Syndicate in Bogor: Posing as Police

Thirteen Japanese nationals were arrested by Bogor Immigration Office officials in Sentul, West Java, for allegedly running an online scam. The suspects allegedly pretended to be officers of the Japanese police, used fake documents, and coerced victims into selling shares and transferring large sums of money. Authorities recovered police insignia, uniforms, and equipment, and are pursuing further investigations into the cybercrime operation.

Three Defendants in Crude Oil Governance Corruption Case Appeal After 9–10-Year Prison Sentences

Three Pertamina Patra Niaga executives, Riva Siahaan, Maya Kusmaya, and Edward Corne, have appealed against nine-to-ten-year prison terms in a crude oil governance corruption case. Their lawyers say the verdict rests on disputed facts and highlight a dissenting judge who found no state loss or mens rea. The appeals were lodged at Jakarta's Corruption Court on Wednesday, 4 March 2026.

Religious Affairs Minister Reports to Prabowo: Takbir Night Will Go Ahead During Nyepi in Bali

The Indonesian government has coordinated with Bali authorities and community leaders to allow Takbir in the Nyepi period without violating Nyepi rules, including restricting sound and timing. TheIsbat process will determine Eid al-Fitr, and the government emphasises maintaining religious tolerance during major religious events.

Yaqut's Lawyer: State Loss in Hajj Quota Case Had Not Been Established by BPK at Time of Indictment

The defence for former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas argues that the state losses alleged in the 2023-2024 Hajj quota case had not been determined by BPK when his client was charged. They say there is no clear audit showing the loss amount as of January 2026, raising questions about the sufficiency of the evidence and the legality of the indictment. The pretrial hearing continues, while the KPK maintains the losses total around Rp622 billion and that the indictment meets the two-evidence standard.

PAM Jaya Denies Kalideres Pipe-Laying Project Has Stalled

PAM Jaya says the Kalideres clean-water pipe-laying project is not abandoned, explaining that work is being conducted using a jacking method that avoids open-cut trenching. Visible holes serve as monitoring points and control basins rather than sites of surface work. The schedule has been extended from February to April 2026 due to conflicts with underground utilities, amid resident complaints about road space being taken by five pipe trenches.

DPP AAI Applauds Junaidi Saibih's Acquittal

AAI welcomed the acquittal, arguing it affirms the independence of the defence bar and guards against misuse of vaguely worded statutes to penalise lawyers. The decision is underpinned by a Constitutional Court ruling that narrows the application of Article 21 of the Corruption Eradication Act, safeguarding lawyers' lawful conduct and professional ethics. The ruling sets a significant legal precedent in Indonesia.

Pelni Offers 30% Mudik Ticket Discounts on All Routes, Check the Schedule

Pelni will offer a 30% discount on economy tickets for all routes from 11 March 2026 to 5 April 2026, funded by a Rp42 billion government stimulus. The programme will run until the government quota is exhausted; Pelni also participates in a separate free Mudik programme with four other state-owned enterprises, with 2,756 tickets allocated.

Saan Mustopa Inaugurates NasDem Mudik Post in Klaten

Saan Mustopa, deputy chairman of NasDem's central leadership, inaugurates the NasDem Peduli Mudik Motor Post in Klaten, Central Java, as part of the party's 12th Ramadan Safari. The post provides service and support for travellers, especially motorcyclists, during the Eid mudik period. NasDem emphasises the tradition of mudik and aims to help ensure safer, more comfortable journeys while reinforcing social care beyond politics.

US–Israel conflict with Iran leaves 3,960 West Java residents in the Middle East waiting for evacuation

More than 3,900 West Java residents working as Indonesian migrant workers in the Middle East are awaiting evacuation amid the US–Israel conflict with Iran. West Java officials say data on PMI in the region is still being compiled and that they are coordinating with embassies and families as they await central government evacuation guidance. Bank Indonesia says it is monitoring the Iran–US–Israel escalation and will safeguard rupiah stability to support growth amid global uncertainty.

Jakarta DKI Agency Seals Off Jakbar Minimarket Selling Alcohol Without a Permit

Jakarta's provincial department for industry, trade, co-operatives, and small and medium enterprises has temporarily sealed a West Jakarta minimarket (HMI) after finding it retailing Group A alcoholic beverages without a licence. Investigations show missing KBLI classification, active NIB status, and SKP-A clearance, with a written warning issued to the operator.

Kasanga Festival 2026 Keeps Up the Pace Despite Rain, Carnival Concept Becomes the Highlight

The Kasanga Festival 2026 will go ahead with a moving carnival parade across Denpasar, from Jaya Sabha to Jalan Udayana, amid rain, with weather monitoring and crowd management in place. The three-day event (6-8 March) focuses on preserving Balinese tradition, features Ogoh-Ogoh competitions with substantial prizes, and is supported by the Denpasar City Government, including waste-management measures based on previous festivals.

Religious Affairs Minister: Bali Allows Takbir Without Loudspeakers During Nyepi

Bali authorities will permit takbir for Idul Fitri on 19 February with a strict limit: no loudspeakers and a time window from 6pm to 9pm, in order to respect Nyepi's silent observance and maintain interfaith harmony. The policy follows dialogue with local government and Balinese leaders, and the official Idul Fitri date will be determined through the Isbat procedure.

US–Israel attack on Iran, DPR Urges Government to Ensure Evacuation Routes for Indonesian Migrant Workers

The Indonesian House of Representatives urged the government to safeguard Indonesian Migrant Workers in the Middle East amid the US–Israel strike on Iran, calling for urgent, cross-ministerial protective measures. It urged data updates for Indonesian migrant workers, evacuation planning, safe houses, and a 24-hour complaint centre as tensions escalate in the region.

Behind the Security Rhetoric

Israeli and United States actions against Iran are framed as pre-emptive measures with broader aims than nuclear deterrence. The article argues these efforts seek to dismantle Iran's nuclear infrastructure and its proxy networks, and to curb what it calls the Ring of Fire. It also links these security moves to an energy-denial strategy that would challenge the dollar's dominance and reshape global energy and monetary dynamics, with implications for China, BRICS+, and oil markets.

Engaging Political Elites Seen as Strengthening the Strategic Policies Prabowo Will Adopt on Geopolitics

BRIN researcher Lili Romli argues that President Prabowo Subianto's invitation to former presidents, vice-presidents, and party leaders to the Istana Merdeka is a strategic move to bolster policy legitimacy. The gathering, which included senior figures and former foreign ministers, focused on global geopolitical developments and potential economic impacts for Indonesia amid Middle East tensions. The participants emphasised open dialogue and input from national figures to ensure decisions are robust and publicly supported.

Amran Orders This Figure's Business to Close: I Will Take Responsibility

Indonesia's Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman says the rise in chicken and beef prices is driven by middlemen who inflated costs at the distribution level. He warns there will be no tolerance for price manipulation and asserts firms violating the chicken price cap (HAP Rp40,000 per kg) could be shut down, with him personally taking responsibility. SP2KP data show the national average price of farmed chicken exceeded the cap on 4 March 2026.

Religious Affairs Minister Meets Prabowo, Reports Takbir Night Preparations Ahead of Nyepi

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar met President Prabowo at the Presidential Palace to brief on Eid al-Fitr preparations, including Takbir night on 19 March that coincides with Nyepi for Bali. He said Bali authorities have coordinated to ensure Takbir does not conflict with Nyepi, with restrictions on sound and timing. The meeting also discussed arrangements for Nuzulul Qur'an at Istana Negara, including potential venues such as the IKN and Masjid Istiqlal before finalising the Istana.

Maigus Tinus Weaves Alumni Networks and Diaspora Solidarity in Solok

Maigus Tinus, an Unand sociology alumnus turned entrepreneur, has been elected chairman of the Solok Regency Family Association (PKKS). He aims to harness alumni and diaspora networks to support development in Solok, emphasising close ties between migrants and their nagari to unlock local economic opportunities. He frames the diaspora as a strategic resource for sustainable growth in Solok, underpinned by local cultural values.

Wamendes says village development in West Papua needs multi-stakeholder support

Deputy Minister Ahmad Riza Patria says that developing villages in West Papua requires multi-stakeholder support spanning central and regional governments and the private sector. He highlights octahelix collaboration, warns against over-reliance on APBN/APBD funding, and notes ongoing programs to strengthen local economies, education, and health, with capacity-building and infrastructure development planned for the province. Minister Yandri Susanto says the ministry will accelerate village development through programmes like export villages via BUMDes, and calls for detailed mapping of village potentials for export.

BMKG Warns of Potential Extreme Weather in the Papua Highlands Through April 2026

BMKG, via the Wamena Meteorology Station, issued an early warning for extreme weather in the Papua Highlands, covering eight regencies, with risks including floods and landslides as the rainy season continues; residents urged to stay vigilant and authorities urged to implement mitigation measures.

Canada Welcomes Indonesia's Efforts to Help Resolve the Conflict

Canada's ambassador to Indonesia, Jess Dutton, says Canada welcomes Indonesia's support in resolving the Iran–US–Israel conflict, emphasising civilian protection and the importance of dialogue. Indonesia offers mediation and readiness to facilitate talks, potentially with President Prabowo visiting Tehran if agreed.

THR for Civil Servants, TNI-Polri Disbursement Reaches Rp55 Trillion — Here Is How Payments Are Made

The Indonesian government will begin disbursing the Tunjangan Hari Raya (THR) for Civil Servants (ASN), including PPPK, TNI/Polri personnel, and retirees, on 26 February 2026, in stages. The total THR budget this year is Rp55 trillion, up 10% from last year, governed by PMK 13/2026 and funded from the APBN. Payments will be made directly to recipients' bank accounts via a web-based payroll system, with Defence/TNI units following special wage-spending rules; BLU THR from non-tax state revenues uses the BLU revenue-and-expenditure approval mechanism; pensioners receive payments via Taspen or Asabri, with THR invoicing due at least one working day before the first payment.

Semarang City Government Prepares Mobile Cheap Markets Ahead of Lebaran

Semarang's city government is organising mobile 'pasar murah' to stabilise supply and prices of essential goods ahead of Lebaran. Mayor Agustina Wilujeng and officials visited Pasar Peterongan and Superindo Sriwijaya to monitor price movements; rice remained relatively stable, but peppers and eggs rose, prompting calls for intervention. The plan will mobilise stakeholders to offer affordable basic goods through the mobile markets.

Khamenei Killed? Failed to Seize Iran — Israel's Latest Strategy

Israel frames its war against Iran as a confrontation with a nation-state, arguing that killing Ayatollah Ali Khamenei would not alter the balance and that only a friendly Iran could halt bombing. The piece notes international reactions, including UN human rights concerns and regional security alerts, and mentions Indonesia's parliamentary call to protect migrant workers amid Middle East tensions.

UI Anthropologist Highlights the Dark Side of the Energy Transition

An anthropologist from Universitas Indonesia warns that the push to decarbonise can generate new funding streams that elites exploit, potentially diverting resources toward hydropower projects. With World Bank and AIIB backing projects such as Upper Cisokan, the report highlights governance risks even as hydropower regains favour as a low-emission energy source.

West Java Provincial Government: 660 free Lebaran mudik seats still available

The West Java provincial government says 660 free Lebaran mudik seats remain available out of 3,040 total; registration via the Sapawarga app runs until 12 March 2026. Remaining routes include Bandung–Sukabumi (288 seats), Bogor–Pelabuhan Ratu (156 seats), and Bogor (Cileungsi)–Bandung (216 seats); 74 buses will depart 13–15 March to ease travel and reduce congestion.

iPhone 17e Gains the A19 Chip and MagSafe, a Significant Upgrade but Half-Hearted

Apple has unveiled the iPhone 17e with the A19 chip and MagSafe, marking a notable upgrade over the iPhone 16e. The A19 brings a six-core CPU and a 16-core Neural Engine, but the GPU is reduced to four cores in the ‘binned’ variant, placing the 17e slightly below the standard iPhone 17. It supports MagSafe and Qi2 charging up to 15W, offering faster wireless charging than the 16e, while still lagging the regular iPhone 17 and bringing access to a broad accessory ecosystem.

Zulhas Ensures Food Stocks Are Safe and Prices Under Control

The Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Food Security, Zulkifli Hasan, has assured that national food stocks are secure ahead of Eid al-Fitr 1447 AH / 2026 CE. He noted ongoing imports of soybeans and wheat, but said Middle East tensions have not yet significantly affected food prices, and urged price stability ahead of Lebaran 2026. Surpluses were reported for corn, chicken meat, and eggs, and Bulog's rice reserves of around 3.5 million tonnes provide a price-stability cushion.

Ahmad Luthfi Denies Being Present With Pekalongan Regent During KPK Sting Operation

Ahmad Luthfi denies claims that he was with the Central Java Governor during a KPK sting. He says he only learned of Fadia's KPK involvement from media reports, and states that Fadia's visit to his home included several officials to discuss MBG progress ahead of a provincial coordination meeting. The KPK denies allegations that the Pekalongan Regent was arrested with the Central Java Governor, underscoring ongoing corruption-prevention efforts.

13 Japanese nationals arrested in Bogor, suspected online fraud against fellow Japanese living abroad

Thirteen Japanese nationals have been arrested in Bogor on suspicion of conducting cross-border online fraud targeting fellow Japanese living abroad. Investigations focus on abuse of residence permits under Indonesia's immigration law, with deportation to Japan being coordinated with the Japanese Consulate.

Salman al-Farisi's Constant Fasting

A Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) tests his companions on fasting, night prayer and Qur'an recitation. Salman al-Farisi asserts he performs all three, prompting a quarrel with a companion. The Prophet rebukes the critic and underscores humility and the danger of boasting, illustrating a lesson about wisdom and perception.

Meeting with Prabowo, Minister of Religious Affairs says Nuzulul Quran to be held at the State Palace

Minister Nasaruddin Umar said the Nuzulul Quran commemoration will be held at the State Palace in Jakarta after direction from President Prabowo Subianto. The options considered included IKN, Istiqlal, and the Presidential Palace, but the decision placed the event at the State Palace. The briefing also touched on zakat payments to be made at the palace and Eid preparations, including takbir arrangements in Bali to respect Nyepi.

Slash Production, Indonesia's Way to Boost Global Nickel Prices

Indonesia is cutting its nickel ore production target for 2026 to around 260 million tonnes to counter oversupply and help lift global nickel prices. Officials say the policy, which favours conserving national nickel reserves, has begun to support price movements, though questions remain about long-term sustainability. The move comes as Indonesia remains the world’s biggest nickel producer, accounting for about 65% of output.

15 Telegram Features You Should Know

Telegram packs a comprehensive guide to 15 features that enhance productivity, security, and convenience—from editing messages and scheduling to self-destruct timers, large file transfers, and multi-chat pinning. The article also highlights public-safety warnings about impersonation of official Indonesian agencies on Telegram, updates to Android and iOS interfaces, and the option to access messages via web browsers. It cautions readers about scams targeting users on the platform.

KPK-Governor Ahmad Luthfi Denies Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq's Statement

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi says he learned of Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq's OTT involvement only from media reports. He disputes her claim that she was with him during the KPK operation and says the meeting included other officials and discussed MBG programmes. The KPK denies that Luthfi was present; the episode highlights ongoing anti-corruption efforts in Java.

2026 Free Homecoming Programme by SOEs to provide 2,756 free ferry tickets

The 2026 State-Owned Enterprises Free Homecoming Programme allocates 2,756 complimentary ferry tickets across multiple routes. PELNI notes a government subsidy of Rp 42 billion to support discounted sea transport during the Lebaran period, with further allocations and discounts extended to other SOEs.

Workers Demand Job Security, Employers Emphasise Investment Climate

Indonesian labour unions KSPSI and KSBSI press the DPR to accelerate the discussion and enactment of the Labour Law by September 2026, saying it fulfills a Constitutional Court mandate and must involve workers in the process. Employers warn that regulation should promote a healthy investment climate and job creation, with public hearings planned on labour issues, including the Omnibus Law on Job Creation.

Minister for Communications and Digital: Meta Must Comply with Indonesian Law as It Profits from Indonesia

Indonesia's Minister for Communications and Digital, Meutya Hafid, said Meta must comply with Indonesian law as it operates in the country. A sudden inspection of Meta's offices followed concerns under the ITE Law Article 40 about misinformation and disinformation. The government seeks greater transparency in algorithms and content moderation, and has urged Meta to improve oversight, though details on the number of supervising personnel were not disclosed.

Iran Insists It Will Not Compromise with the US and Israel

Iranian aide Mohammad Mokhber says there is no trust in the United States and no reason to negotiate, signalling Tehran will persist in its hostility. After US-Israel strikes, Iran’s IRGC pledged retaliation and later launched missiles at Israel and US facilities in the region, alleging civilian targets and more than 700 casualties; Tehran maintains its missile programme is non-negotiable and that any talks must be fair. The report also notes Indonesian discussions with Washington on trade tariffs amid the wider regional tensions.

Yaqut Pretrial: KPK Reveals Rp622 Billion State Losses Calculated by BPK

In a continuing pretrial hearing, the KPK states that the financial losses to the state in the 2023-2024 extra Haj quota corruption case have been officially calculated by the BPK. Indah Oktianti of KPK's Legal Bureau said they had received BPK's investigative audit report detailing irregularities in the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The hearing will proceed with evidence from both sides.

Police Officer Shoots Teenager in Makassar, DPR RI Calls for Review of Firearm SOP

Indonesian lawmakers demanded a transparent, thorough inquiry and firm sanctions against the officer involved following the shooting of 18-year-old Bertrand Eko Prasetyo in Makassar. The incident, which occurred during an attempted security operation after a dispute over a toy water jelly gun, highlighted concerns over field firearm use and has intensified calls to tighten firearm SOPs and policing oversight.

KPK Reply Brief: Yaqut Appears to Be Dodging the Law Enforcement Process

The KPK's Legal Bureau argued that Yaqut had previously been questioned before his designation as a suspect and that an investigative order issued in 2025 underpins the case. It asked the court to deny Yaqut's pretrial motion, uphold the suspect designation, and affirm the legality of the investigation into the alleged extra Haj quota corruption for 2023-2024. The inquiry has involved raids and the seizure of evidence, with state losses estimated at around Rp622 billion; Yaqut and his aide Ishfah Abidal Aziz are suspects but have not been detained, and immigration controls have been sought.

Illegal Cosmetics Producer in Cirebon Charged; Owner Faces Up to 12 Years in Prison

In West Java, the Police's Directorate of Narcotics Investigations uncovered an illegal cosmetics operation under the LC Beauty brand in Cirebon. The owner, ML, 35, is named a suspect after laboratory tests found mercury and hydroquinone in the products; prosecutors say he could face up to 12 years in prison.

Prabowo Orders Bahlil: No Fuel Shortages, Build Storage

President Prabowo Subianto has directed Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia to prevent fuel shortages during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 1447H/2026CE and to establish BBM storage. Bahlil says the administration aims to extend BBM stock from 25 days to up to three months, while fuel prices must remain affordable. The article also notes ample rice stocks and a commitment to price stability.

ASEAN-6 Gross Domestic Product Expected to Grow 4.9% This Year – detikFinance

UBS analysts project ASEAN-6 GDP to grow about 4.9% in 2026, underpinned by solid fundamentals and steady expansion. Growth drivers include Indonesia’s household consumption, rising private investment in Thailand and the Philippines, and tech‑led export resilience in Singapore and Malaysia, against a backdrop of deeper regional integration. The UBS One ASEAN Summit showcased global investment trends and strong deal momentum across healthcare, real estate, and consumer sectors as Southeast Asia positions itself for 2026.

Minister Trenggono pledges to resolve three issues at KNMP Malang

Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Sakti Wahyu Trenggono has pledged to promptly address three problems faced by fishermen at Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih (KNMP) in Pujiharjo, Malang. He identified SPBN fuel facilities, sedimentation, and road access as the key issues and said they would be tackled within six months, subject to coordination with local authorities and the relevant directorates. The KNMP site already includes significant infrastructure such as a portable ice plant, supply kiosks, and docking facilities, while officials noted the scale of fishing activity and fuel requirements.

Eid al-Fitr THR for CIMAHI's civil servants appears assured; what about part-time P3K?

The Cimahi City Government has confirmed that the Eid al-Fitr Tunjangan Hari Raya (THR) for ASN will be paid before Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah, but disbursement depends on technical guidance from the central government. The fate of Part-Time P3K remains under discussion, with officials awaiting further regulations before deciding.

Ministry of Law and Human Rights Introduces Kampung Redam and Desa Sadar HAM Programs to West Lombok Regency

The Indonesian Ministry of Law and Human Rights has launched two grassroots programmes, Kampung Redam (Reconciliation and Peace) and Desa Sadar HAM, targeting communities at the village level with a plan to reach around 2,000 villages by 2026. The schemes tie human rights protections to SDG indicators and have been welcomed by local officials amid ongoing regional conflicts and land-related challenges.

OJK Raids PT MASI Office Over Alleged Capital Market Offences

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) raided the PT MASI office in Jakarta as part of an ongoing probe into alleged capital market offences, including suspected manipulation of material facts, insider trading, and fictitious related-party transactions. The investigation, which has involved multiple entities and 25 witnesses, seeks to uphold market integrity and protect investors, with authorities coordinating with the courts and police.

US–Israel–Iran conflict intensifies; 155 NTB-origin Indonesian migrant workers monitored closely

NTB's provincial government reports 155 Indonesian migrant workers from NTB are in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates amid the escalating US–Israel–Iran confrontation, while 1,415 NTB Umrah pilgrims remain in Saudi Arabia under monitoring. The province says all NTB residents in affected areas are safe for now, and is coordinating with the Foreign Ministry and embassies to verify conditions and whereabouts of students in Iran, urging calm and precise information sharing to families.

Tambora residents complain of dirty, foul-smelling PAM water

In West Jakarta, residents of Jembatan Besi, Tambora, report ongoing difficulties obtaining clean water as PAM Jaya water sometimes flows dirty and with an unpleasant odour. PAM Jaya says it is repairing a clogged pipeline and continues to supply one water tanker daily; the issue originated from a January 2025 pipe burst and subsequent blockage, and residents remain reliant on tanker deliveries.

Immigration Dismantles Online Scam Network in Bogor, 13 Japanese Nationals Arrested

Indonesian immigration authorities in Bogor have dismantled an online scam network operated by foreign nationals, arresting 13 Japanese men in Sentul. The suspects, aged around 40–45, are believed to have carried out cybercrime and extortion impersonating police, and were staying on various visas, including a visa on arrival and 12 on visit or D12 pre-investment visas. The operation, prompted by public information, highlights Indonesia’s selective policy on foreign residents.

Doctor Reveals Cause of a 'Scabby Patch' on Trump's Neck

Trump's personal physician says a reddened patch on the right side of his neck is caused by a common skin-care cream rather than a serious illness, with the redness expected to last several weeks. The comments come amid questions about the 79-year-old president's health after bruising on his hands and past medical checks at Walter Reed.

SMA-level TKA score becomes a prerequisite for SNBP; Here is the Pusmendik practice-question link

Indonesia's 2026 Academic Ability Test (TKA) for SMA/MA and SMK plays a strategic role in the national education landscape, serving both quality mapping and as a key instrument in the SNBP pathway based on academic achievement. Year 10–12 students are invited to practise with self-study questions to understand the test’s objective and complex multiple-choice items via the linked resource, with SMA/MA/equivalent participants facing two test categories; early participation is advised for students aiming for top schools or universities to sharpen logical reasoning.

UN Expresses Concern Over US-Israel Strike on Iranian Girls' School That Killed 165

A UN children’s rights body expressed deep concern over the deaths of children in what Iran describes as a US-Israel strike on a girls’ school in Minab, southern Iran, that killed at least 165 people. It also warns about attacks on civilian infrastructure and calls for the protection of children in conflict, while other actors issue condemnations and warnings.

KBPP Polri Urges the Police Chief to Be Fair, Take Firm Action Against Misbehaving Officers Without Compromise

AH. Bimo Suryono, former head of KBPP Polri (2015-2021), says Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has been fair in awarding rewards and punishments. He highlights two recent incidents—calm handling of a student protest outside Mabes Polri and a front-line response by Kapolres Tual, Maluku, who was wounded yet remained at the frontline—illustrating professionalism and integrity in the force, while noting a drug-network probe in Bima that exposes dual sides within the police.

Video: The Fate of Investment in a Special Economic Zone Amid the US–Iran War

Indonesia continues to push investment in Special Economic Zones (KEK) through streamlined licensing, optimised incentives, and stronger infrastructure, with KEK Galang Batang framed as a motor of industrialisation and job creation. KEK Galang Batang has drawn Rp 35 trillion of investments toward a Rp 36 trillion target and employs about 15,000 people, 90% of them local; yet global economic and geopolitical tensions, including the US–Iran conflict, threaten the continuity of these investments. The report previews a discussion with KEK Galang Batang’s owner, George Santos, on CNBC Indonesia’s Manufacture Check.

Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform Strengthens Merit System for the State Civil Apparatus in Line with RPJMN 2025–2029

Indonesia's Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform (PANRB) has issued Ministerial Regulation No. 19/2025 to entrench a merit-based system in State Civil Apparatus (ASN) management as part of the RPJMN 2025–2029. The regulation sets out five key measures, including integrated merit across the ASN lifecycle, multi-dimensional maturity measurement, an objective merit index supported by staff surveys, strong integration with talent management, and digitalised oversight. The reforms aim to deliver a World Class Bureaucracy by 2045, with ASN that are integritas, adaptive, and competent.

Teenager Killed by Police in Makassar; Iptu N Named a Suspect

A teenage suspect, Betrand Eka Prasetyo (18), died after a police shooting in Makassar during an operation to disperse youths using toy jelly-pellet guns. Iptu N has been named a suspect; the case is under investigation by Propam Polrestabes Makassar. The sequence includes a warning shot, a struggle, and an alleged accidental discharge that proved fatal.

Yaqut's pre-trial, KPK says state losses have been calculated by BPK

At a pre-trial hearing in South Jakarta, the KPK said BPK had calculated Rp622 billion in state losses related to irregularities in the 2023-2024 haj quota. The agency also argued that the suspect Yaqut Cholil Qoumas was named based on more than two pieces of evidence, including testimony from over 40 witnesses and more than 200 documents.

Five-year-old boy dies after being struck by Airport train at Gamping Lor crossing, Sleman

A five-year-old boy died after being struck by an Airport Train at the Gamping Lor railway crossing in Ambarketawang, Sleman. The victim, MH, was crossing with a bicycle when the incident occurred around 15:15 local time; the driver reportedly sounded repeated warnings but could not avoid the collision. Authorities evacuated the body to PKU Muhammadiyah Gamping for further medical examination as investigations continue.

Pekalongan Regent Named Suspect in Corruption Case, Experts Highlight Problem of Instant Politicians

Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq has been named a suspect in a Rp46 billion outsourcing procurement case by Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), with allegations that funds flowed to her husband and children through family-owned companies. Experts warn that 'instant' politicians lack the experience needed for effective governance, while Central Java's governor urges greater integrity among regional leaders.

Hybrid MPV options in Indonesia, starting from Rp300 million

Hybrid MPVs are expanding in Indonesia as automakers broaden offerings beyond conventional petrol and diesel engines. The article highlights plug-in hybrids (PHEV) such as the Wuling Cortez Darion PHEV and the Nissan Serena e-Power, which deliver electric-like performance with alternative fuel options. These models promise smoother acceleration and flexible interiors for families, serving as a transitional step toward electrified driving.

Timeline of the Uncovering of a 3-Tonne Pangolin Scales Smuggling Case at Tanjung Priok

Customs investigators disclosed the chronology of the smuggling operation, with pangolin scales totalling 3,053 kilograms found in a container at Tanjung Priok. The value is estimated at around IDR 183 billion, and authorities are continuing to identify the exporter and perpetrators; the scales are believed to originate from the protected Manis javanica species.

New Foldable iPhone Set to Launch, Samsung Showcases More Advanced Phone

Samsung unveiled a Mobile Slideable foldable concept at MWC 2026, featuring a screen that can slide to extend from 5.1 to 6.7 inches and shift aspect ratios from 16:9 to 22:9. The technology is still in development, with no timeline for adoption, and follows Samsung's earlier Flex Slidable concept shown in 2022.

2026 Primary and Secondary School TKA Simulation: Official Pusmendik Link, Schedule, and How to Practice Questions

The Indonesian Ministry of Basic Education and Secondary Education, via the Centre for Education Assessment (Pusmendik), has launched the 2026 TKA simulation for primary and junior secondary students, free of charge to familiarise them with the digital test format. The TKA focuses on Indonesian Language Literacy and Numeracy, and while not a graduation criterion, its results help map school quality and may aid admissions via achievements.

Middle East conflict intensifies, Antam predicts global gold prices to continue rising

Antam forecasts that global gold prices could continue to rise as geopolitical tensions, especially in the Middle East, intensify, reinforcing gold's status as a safe-haven asset. The Jakarta-based miner also said it would keep boosting domestic production and secure raw-material supplies, while offering a one-for-one Brangkas Logam Mulia service to ensure customers receive physical gold. The statements underline the balance between price outlook and the need to maintain gold availability for domestic buyers.

OJK raids PT MASI office over alleged IPO manipulation case

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) raided the PT MASI office in Jakarta's Sudirman Central Business District as part of an investigation into suspected manipulation of an initial public offering (IPO). Investigators seized a number of items as evidence. The case underscores ongoing scrutiny of IPO practices and market integrity in Indonesia.

Bahlil: Indonesia Needs New BBM Storage to Target Three-Month Reserves

Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Minister said storage capacity constraints are the main hurdle in expanding national BBM reserves. He noted that current storage tops out at about 25 days, with a national minimum standard of 20-23 days, and that reaching three months would require new storage infrastructure, possibly in Sumatra, following presidential directive to strengthen energy resilience.

Sragen residents now enjoy improved provincial roads as Central Java government completes infrastructure upgrades

The Central Java provincial government has completed upgrades to key provincial roads in Sragen, improving connectivity and supporting regional growth. The Kuwu–Galeh and Galeh–Ngrampal segments were upgraded at a total cost of around Rp20.5 billion, featuring concrete paving, widening, drainage and road markings. The projects are expected to ease movement of people and goods and support the distribution of agricultural produce.

KPK Says Pekalongan Regent Was Not Arrested While With Central Java Governor

The KPK has clarified that Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq was not arrested in the same operation as Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi. The agency says she was arrested in Semarang with trusted aides and bodyguards, and later named as the sole suspect in a 2023-2026 procurement-related corruption case. The governor has denied being with her during the arrest.

Commission III Says West Java Provincial Government’s Rp2 Trillion Borrowing Plan Is a Prudent and Measured Step

A member of West Java DPRD Commission III, Tina Wiryawati of the Gerindra Party, backs a Rp2 trillion loan from Bank BUMD Jawa Barat to fund infrastructure, provided it is carefully designed, transparent and fiscally sustainable. With infrastructure needs large and the APBD’s fiscal space limited, the plan could accelerate development without overburdening public finances, and loan proceeds should target strategic, productive projects to yield lasting benefits and boost regional revenue.

Prabowo to Break Fast with Religious Figures and Leaders of Islamic Mass Organisations Tomorrow

President Prabowo Subianto will host an iftar gathering at Istana Merdeka with religious figures, leaders of Islamic mass organisations, and pondok pesantren leaders on 5 March 2026. The plan, revealed by the Minister of Religious Affairs after a meeting with the President, also leaves room for discussion of geopolitics, according to MPR Chairman Ahmad Muzani.

Motorbikes and Motis 2026 Participants in Bekasi to Be Transported on a Single Train

Rizki Prastya said motorcycles and their passengers taking part in the Motis programme will be dispatched in the same train consist, ensuring simultaneous arrival; the Motis scheme has run annually since 2013 to reduce accidents during Lebaran mudik. Since registration opened on 1 March 2026, demand at Bekasi Station has been high, though staff shortages pose a challenge.

Fitch Cuts Indonesia's Debt Rating Outlook to Negative, Finance Ministry: Indonesian Economy on Positive Trajectory

Indonesia's Finance Ministry pushed back against Fitch Ratings' decision to cut the debt rating outlook to negative, insisting the economy remains on a positive trajectory driven by strong macro fundamentals and ongoing structural reform. It noted 5.39% growth in Q4 2025 and improving early-2026 indicators, while stressing continued macro stability, deregulation, and enhanced cross-sector coordination. The ministry also highlighted strengthened Danantara collaboration outside the APBN and a focus on sustainable, high value-added private investment.

What Are the Aims of the US–Israel Attack on Iran?

The article outlines how the US-Israel assault on Iran has escalated into a broader regional confrontation, with the UK permitting US base use in Cyprus. It compares Trump’s stated 'victory' conditions with Netanyahu’s aims to degrade Iran’s military capabilities, and questions the plausibility of toppling the regime from air power alone, amid looming strategic chokepoints like the Hormuz Strait.

Fasting Can Heal GERD and Gastritis: Myth or Fact?

Ramadan fasting may aid GERD symptom relief and could help healing, according to a gastroenterologist, though patients should seek medical advice. The piece outlines potential gut health benefits of fasting, cautions for severe cases, and offers practical diet guidance for sahur and iftar.

7 Best Note-Taking Apps for iPhone

Seven note-taking apps for iPhone are reviewed, highlighting features such as cloud syncing, quick search, handwriting and typing, PDF annotation, and cross-device collaboration. The piece emphasises that note apps can replace physical notebooks and can handle tasks, databases, calendars, and team work, with broad platform availability including Android and web.

PELNI Prepares 751,550 Passenger Tickets for Eid al-Fitr Travel in 2026

Indonesia's state-owned shipping company PELNI has announced 751,550 tickets for Lebaran travel in 2026, with 56,069 seats across 25 ships serving 74 ports, and an additional 30 pioneer ships offering 11,889 seats across 230 ports. Peak outbound travel is expected on 18–21 March 2026, with the return peak around 2 April 2026, and the operator is implementing route and schedule adjustments, upgrading safety and fuel/water provisions.

Ministry of Finance commits to continuing fiscal discipline as Fitch revises Indonesia's debt outlook

The Indonesian government reaffirmed its commitment to macroeconomic stability and continued fiscal discipline after Fitch Ratings revised Indonesia's debt outlook from stable to negative. Despite the downgrade, Fitch kept Indonesia at BBB investment grade, while the Ministry highlighted improving macrofiscal metrics and ongoing reforms, including growth initiatives outside the APBN via Danantara to drive investment.

KPK: No Information That Fadia Arafiq Was With the Governor of Central Java During Sting Operation

The Indonesian anti-corruption commission (KPK) says it had no information that Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq met Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi during the sting operation. The raid occurred in Semarang, and Fadia claimed she was with the governor and that nothing was seized; Luthfi denied being with her. The statements leave questions about the sequence and participants in the operation.

Mock Academic Aptitude Test (TKA) for Primary and Junior High School 2026: Full Schedule and How to Access Official Links

Indonesia's Education Ministry has launched the 2026 stage of the Academic Aptitude Test (TKA) simulation to familiarise students with the digital examination ahead of the main sitting in April 2026. The article outlines the timetable for primary (SD) and junior high (SMP) levels, how students can access the simulation either independently or via schools, and notes the use of TKA results for learning assessment while highlighting internet access challenges and satellite internet costs as potential constraints.

Religious Affairs Minister Says Prabowo Has Issued Instructions for Nuzulul Quran to Be Held at the Presidential Palace, Jakarta

The Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar said President Prabowo will host the Nuzulul Quran gathering at Istana Negara in Jakarta, after reviewing alternative venues. He also disclosed plans to schedule zakat payments for Prabowo and Cabinet Merah Putih to Baznas at the Istana, and noted technical preparations and venue considerations.

Former Investigator: Constitutional Court ruling on obstruction of justice is correct

A former KPK investigator, Yudi Purnomo Harahap, welcomes the Constitutional Court’s decision to alter the wording of Article 21 on obstruction of justice, arguing it provides legal certainty and prevents misuse by authorities. He notes the ruling preserves necessary powers for investigators, prosecutors, and judges, while urging caution and stronger evidence to prove obstruction.

Prosecutor Identifies Suspect Candidate in Money-Laundering Case Linked to MXGP Samota Land Purchase

NTB's High Prosecutor's Office has named a candidate for a money-laundering charge in connection with the corruption surrounding the purchase of 70 hectares of land for the MXGP Samota circuit in Sumbawa. The designation of a suspect will be announced soon, as investigations into possible TPPU continue alongside earlier arrests of a BPN official and two KJPP personnel.

Perhumas emphasises that AI assists PR in data processing, but decisions remain in human hands

Indonesia's Public Relations Association (Perhumas) says AI is a tool for PR professionals to verify information, speed data retrieval, and support decision-making, but human actors retain ultimate authority. General Secretary Benny Siga Butarbutar says AI complements, not replaces, human judgment, especially in crisis contexts where understanding public emotion is complex. The comments, made at the INFOBRAND Forum 2026 in Jakarta, also stress building trust and effective prompting to forecast communication dynamics.

Ammar Zoni and Co. Case to Enter Indictment Reading Stage on 13 March 2026

The trial into alleged narcotics distribution inside Salemba Prison, involving actor Ammar Zoni and five co-defendants, is set to move to the indictment-reading stage on 13 March 2026 at 10:00 WIB. Prosecutors allege they conspired to distribute methamphetamine, cannabis, and ecstasy inside the prison, with Ammar Zoni described as a warehouse for narcotics. The case stems from activity that reportedly began in late December 2024 and expands from an earlier January 2025 revelation.

3,800 Free Takjil at Jogokariyan Mosque Draw Crowds

During Ramadan, Jogokariyan Mosque in Yogyakarta distributed 3,800 free takjil daily as part of Kampoeng Ramadan Jogokariyan, alongside a bustling evening market featuring local SMEs. The event attracts large crowds near iftar, with rotating daily menus and a division of takjil collection areas by gender, highlighting economic activity around religious observance.

Two People Named as Suspects in BEBS Stock 'Gorengan' Scandal at Mirae Asset Sekuritas; OJK Also Freezes Rp14.5 Trillion!

OJK has named two suspects in BEBS’s stock manipulation case linked to its IPO, including the BEBS beneficial owner and the former Mirae Asset Sekuritas Indonesia executive. The regulator has also frozen around 2 billion BEBS shares valued at about Rp14.4–14.5 trillion, after uncovering alleged insider-based purchases and fake trading involving dozens of entities from 2020–2022.

Minister of Communications and Digital States Meta Has Not Yet Complied with Indonesian Regulations

Indonesia’s Ministry of Communications and Digital (Komdigi) says Meta has not met regulatory obligations. A surprise inspection of Meta’s office in Jakarta found compliance below 30%, with demands including transparency of algorithms and content moderation, and stricter reporting and oversight to keep the digital space safe.

BBCA Share Price Today 4 March 2026: Slumps Below Rp7,000, Is It Time to Buy on Weakness?

Indonesia's stock market was hit by negative sentiment on 4 March 2026, with BBCA slipping below Rp7,000 amid a broad risk-off move in the banking sector. Despite solid fundamentals and an upcoming RUPST, analysts see Buy on Weakness opportunities for long-term investors, underpinned by a Rp5 trillion buyback plan and a key Rp6,800 support. With consensus targets still above Rp10,000, the correction could present value for patient investors.

Attack on Iran: US deploys 50,000 troops, 200 fighter jets and two aircraft carriers

US Central Command says more than 50,000 troops, 200 jets and two aircraft carriers have been deployed in a joint operation with Israel against Iran since 28 February. Gen. Brad Cooper described the operation 'Epic Fury' as the largest US military deployment in the Middle East in a generation, with nearly 2,000 targets hit and Iran retaliating with missiles and drones; casualty figures on both sides are disputed, with Iran claiming hundreds killed and the US acknowledging several fatalities.

Jakarta–Semarang Bus Ticket Prices Ahead of Lebaran, Start at Around Rp200,000

Two weeks before Lebaran, Jakarta–Semarang bus fares remain largely stable with no widespread price increases yet, offering early-booking opportunities for cheaper tickets. Checks across AKAP operators show prices still within normal ranges, with Executive fares around Rp220,000 and Sleeper options up to Rp460,000. Typically price increases begin about a week before Lebaran as demand rises, so travellers are advised to book early before the peak mudik period.

The Batman Trap in the LPDP Test

Two LPDP scholarship applicants recount experiences of interview questions they viewed as unrelated to academics. Rahman’s case centres on a question about interfaith marriage that he believes blocked his funding, while Anggi details discriminatory and non-transparent questions in interviews. The piece cites calls from researchers and activists for transparency and fairness in LPDP’s selection process.

Andre Rosiade Inaugurates Telkomsel BTS in Kamang Hilia, Agam Regency

The inauguration of Telkomsel's BTS in Kamang Hilia marks a long-awaited improvement in mobile signal for residents of Kamang Hilia and surrounding areas. Andre Rosiade hailed the responsiveness of Telkomsel's West Sumatra team and pledged continued efforts to expand network access across his West Sumatra II constituency. Local officials and Telkomsel representatives attended, emphasising the project as part of broader digital inclusion and governance support.

PPRT Bill Bans PRT Recruiters With Foundation Status

The DPR is reworking the PPRT bill to bolster protection for domestic workers. The draft would require recruitment agencies to be legally established entities, phase out foundation-based operators, ensure domestic workers gain access to National Health Insurance, and consider their inclusion in the government's premium assistance scheme, with civil society consultations underway.

Corruption Court Suddenly Flooded with Floral Tributes, What's Going On?

Support for Judge Mulyono was demonstrated outside the Jakarta Corruption Court as floral tributes appeared along the pavement. The judge, who issued a dissenting opinion in the nine-defendant crude oil governance case, questioned procedures and the calculation of state losses, arguing that business decisions should not be criminalised unless accompanied by serious misdeeds.

Qur'an teacher in Mataram faces up to nine years' imprisonment for abusing seven students

A Qur'an teacher in Ampenan, Mataram, NTB, Hasan Basri, is accused of abusing seven pupils aged 13-18 between 2023 and 2024. He has been named a suspect and faces up to nine years in prison; police say the abuse escalated from joking demeanour to touching and kissing, leading to reports from victims and their guardians.

Killer of a primary-school pupil in West Bandung turns out to be the step-brother; this is how the suspect ended his younger sibling's life

A 28-year-old man, MZ, has been named as a suspect in the murder of a 12-year-old pupil identified as ASA in Cipatat, West Bandung. The suspect, ASA's step-brother, allegedly admitted to killing the child with a parang on 3 March 2026 and was taken to Cimahi Police Headquarters for further questioning.

Preventing Downward Social Mobility: The Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment Empowers the Middle Class

Indonesia's Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment is using the SMK Go Global programme and MSME empowerment to prevent the middle class from slipping down the economic ladder. Officials say the approach requires long-term, multi-stakeholder commitment, combining overseas job opportunities with access to materials, equipment, and financing to bolster livelihoods amid rising living costs and labour-market uncertainty.

From Tehran to Jakarta: Lessons from CIA, Mossad and VEVAK in Intelligence Warfare

The article argues that modern intelligence warfare is driven by information dominance, cyber capability, and sophisticated intelligence collection, using the CIA–Mossad–VEVAK case as a global benchmark. It highlights implications for Indonesia, stressing the need to strengthen cyber intelligence, counter‑intelligence, and inter‑agency coordination within BIN, BAIS, and Polri to navigate evolving geopolitical competition.

Ray Rangkuti: Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin Emerges in the 2029 Presidential Candidates Field, Like SBY in the 2004 Presidential Election

Political analyst Ray Rangkuti warns that Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin’s appearance in the 2029 presidential candidate field could echo the 2004 rise of Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, then a minister in Megawati Sukarnoputri's government. The discussion at the Indonesia Youth Congress in Jakarta highlights how a potential bid might reshape the race, though the 20-year cycle makes a repeat unlikely; observers will watch forthcoming dynamics ahead of the 2029 election.

Will Kim Jong Un's Younger Sister and Daughter Compete for the Throne?

Recent developments in North Korea have sparked speculation about the regime's future and Kim Jong Un's succession plans. Kim Yo Jong has gained formal power as a party director at the ruling Workers' Party Congress, while his young daughter Kim Ju Ae has appeared more publicly; analysts caution that formal succession remains distant and controversial only in distant, unlikely scenarios.

Prabowo to Break Fast with Ulama and Islamic Organisations at Merdeka Palace Tomorrow

President Prabowo Subianto will meet religious leaders, ulama, and leaders of Islamic organisations at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta tomorrow, with a breaking-fast gathering on the programme. Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar said invitations extend to pondok pesantren leaders, continuing established practice. MPR Chair Ahmad Muzani said Prabowo may seek views on Indonesia's stance at the Board of Peace, while also sharing his own position.

Fadia's Husband and Son Benefited From Corruption Funds; What Is Their Status at the KPK?

The KPK says funds from the Pekalongan corruption case flowed to the suspect’s husband and child through related entities. Fadia Arafiq is charged with conflicts of interest, while the agency says it will continue investigating other individuals as evidence warrants.

Indonesia's Obesity Prevalence Rises: How to Choose Processed Foods Wisely

Indonesia's adult obesity rate rose from 21.8% in 2018 to 23.4% in 2023, alarming health officials due to rising non-communicable disease risks. The Health Ministry emphasises obesity as a serious medical condition and advocates improving nutrition literacy and mindful consumption of processed foods, rather than complete avoidance. It highlights cross-sector campaigns to limit sugar, salt and fat and the importance of understanding nutrition information on packaging, with Ramadan guidance and broader educational initiatives.

Muhammadiyah backs Aiman & Aisha, calling AI a guide for the Ummah in the information flood era

Muhammadiyah's central leadership secretary expressed support for Republika's Islam‑based AI platform 'Aiman & Aisha', saying it could bolster da'wah and religious literacy amid the flood of information. The platform aims to provide credible references and connect users with wide religious information resources.

Pansus 11 Bandung City DPRD Highlights Decline in Birth Rates in Bandung

Bandung's Special Committee 11 (Pansus 11) on GDPK 2025-2045 accepts inputs from Bappenas as it awaits a forthcoming presidential regulation on population design. The panel warns that falling birth rates could reshape the city’s age structure within a decade, calling for youth education and better data accuracy to reflect Bandung’s demographics. It also emphasises aligning the Raperda with central policy and comprehensive education policy to improve human resources.

Fish-shaped lanterns brighten traditional festival in Shexian, China

In Shexian, villagers preserve a tradition of crafting fish-shaped lanterns as an intangible cultural heritage. A parade of these lanterns is a key folk-cultural event during the traditional festival, and locals are now pursuing new business opportunities linked to the lanterns, including tourism and cultural-creative products.

Impact of the US-Iran War on Indonesia's Economy, Lestari Moerdijat Urges Government to Prepare Anticipatory Policies

Indonesia warns that the US-Israel and Iran conflict could disrupt global energy markets, with oil prices potentially rising and domestic inflation and fiscal pressures looming. A Denpasar Forum discussion urged anticipatory policy measures, including shielding vulnerable groups and monitoring energy security, while experts warned of supply disruptions and exchange-rate volatility. The government is also considering redirecting part of its crude oil imports to the United States to diversify risk.

Motorists Still Driving Against the Flow on DI Panjaitan as Police Join Dishub and Satpol PP

East Jakarta's Traffic Unit has intensified surveillance on Jalan DI Panjaitan near the Jatinegara district office, enlisting Dishub and Satpol PP to curb counter-flow riding in a government precinct. It will use ETLE handheld devices to photograph and automatically block violations; despite patrols, motorcyclists were still seen travelling in the wrong direction, and a car in a circulating video continued despite bystander blocks. Traffic cones are placed to deter wrong-way driving.

In Journey: Indonesia's Aviation Industry Hit by Middle East Escalation

Geopolitical escalation in the Middle East is beginning to disrupt Indonesia's aviation sector, with diversions at affected airports reverberating across InJourney's network. InJourney’s Commercial Director Veronica H Sisilia says disruptions over the past days are impacting the airport ecosystem—from ground handling and tenants to logistics and passenger activities—and that the company is adapting its scope of work and mitigation measures as the situation evolves.

Amran insists there will be no compromise, will seal food distributors that misbehave

Indonesia’s National Food Agency (Bapanas) chief Andi Amran Sulaiman warned there would be no compromise with rogue food distributors and ordered enforcement actions, including sealing businesses, to stabilise prices during Ramadan and Idul Fitri 1447 H. He cited data from BPS showing broiler chicken, cooking oil and beef as major inflation drivers, with chili prices down, and emphasised that all HET price ceilings must be observed. He also called for tough action against price manipulators and highlighted consumer-level HET for beef and broiler chicken and government SPHP interventions.

Indonesia's Digital Economy Amid Global Turbulence

Indonesia is accelerating its digital transformation, driving widespread internet access, public service connectivity, and cashless payments. But geopolitical tensions and cybersecurity challenges loom, with new protections under the Personal Data Protection Act and a push to secure national digital infrastructure, including the SATRIA-1 satellite. The article argues resilience will depend on secure digital services, diversified energy logistics, and robust protection of critical infrastructure.

Transjabodetabek Blok M–Soetta Route to Use Low-Entry Buses via Sudirman and Semanggi

Jakarta's provincial government will launch a new Transjabodetabek route from Blok M to Bandara Soekarno-Hatta (Soetta) before Lebaran 1447 H. The service will use low-entry buses to ease luggage handling, stop at roadside halts, and run from Blok M to Soetta via Sudirman, Semanggi, and the MPR/DPR before entering the toll road, with talks ongoing on terminal stops and fares set at Rp 2,000– Rp 3,500.

Indonesia's Intention to Mediate the War, Iranian Ambassador: No Negotiations

Indonesia signalled readiness to mediate in the US–Iran war, but Iran's ambassador to Indonesia says there can be no negotiations with the United States, which Iran accuses of hostility. Analysts say Indonesia has limited leverage, and the crisis raises global energy and security concerns as Tehran vows retaliation for the attack that killed the Iranian leadership.

Hankam Road and Sepaku Ring Road Project Reaches 62% Progress as WIKA Accelerates Connectivity of the IKN Strategic Zone

PT Wijaya Karya (Persero) Tbk (WIKA) reports 62.83% progress on the Hankam Road and Sepaku Ring Road 4 project, commissioned by the Ministry of Public Works through the Directorate General of Highways to accelerate the development of the Nusantara Capital City (IKN). The works include approximately 10.964 kilometres of road, a Multi Utility Tunnel (MUT), six-lane pavement, and bridge construction, intended to improve mobility, government logistics, and underground utilities integration for the IKN core area (KIPP).

Prosecutors Seize Rp 228.15 Million During Raid on Serang City Land Office in Land-Permit Corruption Case

Authorities seized Rp 228,150,000 in cash along with documents, computers and 20 mobile phones during a raid on the Serang City Land Office as part of an inquiry into alleged corruption in land-permit processing from 2020–2025. The operation, conducted on 3 March 2026 and witnessed by Land Office staff, targeted rooms including the head's office; officials said public services continued normally. The case has moved to an investigation stage with no suspects named yet, and prosecutors say the evidence collected is substantial.

Mirae Involved in BEBS Stock Manipulation as Office Raided by OJK and Bareskrim Polri

The article reports that MASI's offices were searched by OJK and Bareskrim as part of a capital-market investigation into alleged manipulation, with MASI cooperating and operations continuing. OJK alleges involvement in insider trading and non-disclosure around BEBS, with investigations into related-party transactions that allegedly pushed BEBS’s share price sharply higher; 25 witnesses have been examined as the probe continues.

Residents Flock to Subsidised Sembako Redemption at Jakbar City Park, West Jakarta

During Ramadan 2026, residents in West Jakarta queued for subsidised sembako packages offered at Jakbar City Park, paying only Rp100,000 for essentials such as rice, cooking oil and sugar. Organisers said the programme supports low‑income households amid rising prices and will be repeated after this week’s event.

BPOM Ensures Indonesia's Drug and Food Security Amid Middle East Conflict

BPOM chief Taruna Ikrar says Indonesia's medicines and food supply remains secure despite the Middle East conflict, which could affect prices given the country’s dependence on imported medicines. He notes adequate domestic supply from major pharmaceutical firms and highlights Indonesia's self-sufficiency in staples such as rice; the regional turmoil underscores global supply risks.

APIX F18 Offset Printing Becomes an Efficient Mass-Printing Mainstay for Diverse Industries

APIX F18, a Jakarta-based offset printing service, positions itself as a cost-efficient option for large-volume printing for both SMEs and large corporates, emphasising its Komori four-colour press and flexible hours. The article explains the differences between offset and digital printing and notes the availability of digital printing and cutting technologies, with brochures, magazines, and catalogs starting from Rp 300,000 per rim.

Danantara Calls Indonesia a New Market for Investment

Rosan Roeslani, chief executive of Danantara Indonesia, said that Indonesia has become a new market for investment following the United States–Israel strikes on Iran, which have sparked a fresh crisis in the Middle East. He argued opportunities may arise from such events, in both investment and trade, and Danantara will study the overall impact of the conflict. He noted that President Prabowo and key ministers are monitoring the crisis to safeguard Indonesia's growth and exports.

I'tikaf at Istiqlal Mosque Ramadan 2026: Requirements and Registration

Masjid Istiqlal has opened i'tikaf for Ramadan 2026 with a quota of 400 participants (200 men and 200 women). Registration runs from 4 to 9 March 2026, with requirements including physical and spiritual health, intention to complete the Ramadan programme (preferably 10 days), and age-related conditions; documents required include photo, ID, and a doctor's health letter for ages 60-65. The article also covers expected Eid al-Fitr dates for 2026 as forecast by government bodies and Muhammadiyah, noting that final dates will be confirmed by the isbat session.

Tips to Prevent an Electric Car from a Total Shutdown: Look After the 12V Battery and the Main Battery

Electric vehicles rely heavily on their energy management systems; total failures are often caused by preventable issues. This guide explains the importance of the 12V auxiliary battery, the vulnerability of lithium‑ion cells to low voltage, and the need for timely BMS updates to avoid total shutdown.

7 HP Android "Alternatif" iPhone 17 Pro Max, Harga Lebih Miring

KOMPAS.com - Sejumlah ponsel Android terbaru hadir dengan desain modul kamera belakang yang sekilas mengingatkan pada iPhone 17 Pro Max. Kemiripan itu terlihat dari ukuran modul kamera yang besar dan menonjol, dengan sudut membulat serta susunan lensa berbentuk segitiga. Desain semacam ini kini tidak hanya hadir di kelas flagship, tetapi juga merambah segmen menengah hingga entry-level.

Stalled briefly, 120 Solo Umrah pilgrims have returned home

About 120 Umrah pilgrims from Solo, Central Java, were temporarily delayed returning home due to the Middle East conflict but have now returned safely. Travel operators report no Solo pilgrims stranded at airports, with flights resumed though longer travel times as routes avoid conflict zones. Officials and agencies say departures continue using alternative airlines while monitoring the situation.

PAM's Water Pipe Excavation in Kalideres Delayed by Other Utilities, Completion Pushed to April 2026

PAM Jaya says the slow progress of the clean water pipe excavation in Kalideres is due to underground utility networks, with completion now postponed to April 2026. The project, begun in November 2025, uses the jacking method rather than open-cut construction to minimise road disruption. Residents have reported open trenches for months, fuelling traffic congestion.

Deputy Trade Minister: Self-sufficiency crucial to facing global geopolitical situations

Indonesia's Deputy Trade Minister says self-sufficiency in energy and food is essential to withstand dynamic global tensions, with energy and food resilience running in tandem with steps to expand the export market for Indonesian products. The plan includes exporting 2,280 tonnes of rice to Indonesian Haj pilgrims in Saudi Arabia as part of opening new markets and boosting domestic supply, using domestically sourced rice processed to high standards and halal-certified, with full support from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for Haj 2026.

Bareskrim Names LC Beauty Cosmetics Suspect; Not Detained Due to Pregnancy

The Indonesian Police's Narcotics Directorate has named a woman, initials ML, as a suspect in the production and distribution of illegal LC Beauty cosmetics containing mercury and hydroquinone. The suspect has not been detained due to pregnancy and a recent operation, with the case centring on a production site in Cirebon and the seizure of thousands of cosmetic products. The incident highlights risks from unregulated cosmetics and public health regulation enforcement.

30 Percent Discount, PELNI Optimistic Lebaran 2026 Ferry Tickets Will Sell Out

PELNI's President Director Tri Andayani announced a 30% discount on PELNI ferry fares for Lebaran 2026, applying across all routes and valid from 11 March to 5 April 2026. The government has allocated Rp 42.3 billion for the tariff stimulus, with 135,000 tickets sold to date, and a separate BUMN mudik programme offers 2,757 free journeys.

DPR Commission III Says Implementation of the New KUHP in South Kalimantan Is Good

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III says the implementation of Law No. 1 of 2023 on the Penal Code (KUHP) and Law No. 20 of 2025 on the KUHAP, effective from 2 January 2026 in South Kalimantan, is good. He emphasises ongoing oversight, improvements in SOPs and human resources, and the need for public understanding; central-level attention will address any regulatory or budget shortfalls.

Reflections on Spiritual Practice

Ramadan is presented as both a personal and societal discipline, emphasising restraint, compassion and public-spirited leadership. The piece argues that the fasting month should influence public policy and condemn abuses of power, urging leaders to prioritise welfare and social harmony amid global geopolitical tensions.

Foreign Divestment Obligation Reaches This Far

US authorities have flagged Indonesia's 51% foreign divestment requirement for mining as a trade barrier in the 2025 National Trade Estimate Report on Foreign Trade Barriers. Washington argues the rule undermines investor confidence and may not be compatible with reciprocal trade agreements, potentially chilling investment in Indonesia's natural resources sector. The regulation—spurred by Government Regulation No. 96 of 2021, updated by Government Regulation No. 25 of 2024—requires foreign miners to cede 51% ownership to Indonesian interests.

Lebak Regent Holds Talks With Students After Schedule Miscommunication During Demonstration

Hundreds of students in Lebak Regency staged a protest, prompting questions about why the Regent was absent. Officials clarified that the Regent did not intend to skip the protest; a schedule miscommunication delayed his meeting, but he later met with student delegates and supported the establishment of a forum for ongoing dialogue. The move underscored efforts to improve government–student communication and democratic engagement.

Avoid Conflicts on the Road, Use the Horn Proportionally

Road safety authorities advise that car horns should be used sparingly to signal presence, especially when overtaking or negotiating blind bends. Excessive or high-pitched honking can distract drivers and provoke riskier reactions; discipline and mutual respect are key to safer road sharing.

Gibran reviews AI Ready ASEAN, urges students to master AI technology

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming visited Bandung to review AI Ready ASEAN and urged students to master AI and its ethics. The workshop drew around 500 pupils and aimed to broaden AI literacy while equipping them with practical understanding of AI in daily life, aligning with President Prabowo Subianto’s Astacita programme and broader digital transformation goals. The event included discussions on environmental sustainability and featured backing from the ASEAN Foundation and Google.org.

WIKA earns ESG score of 64/100 from S&P Global in 2025, ranking 13th worldwide in the Construction sector

WIKA has improved its ESG score to 64/100 according to S&P Global's Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA) for 2025, up from 53/100, and surpasses the global Construction & Engineering industry average of 31/100. The company ranks 13th globally in the sector, fifth in the Asia-Pacific, and leads in Indonesia in Construction & Engineering, while targeting Net Zero Emissions by 2055 as part of its decarbonisation strategy.

6 Ways to Install a VPN in Microsoft Edge

The article discusses VPN usage, warns about fake or compromised VPNs, and notes a government policy claim about redirecting some crude oil imports to the United States. It also contains security guidance and promotional content about VPNs.

Clearer Signs of the Apocalypse as Lost Worlds Are Found Beneath the Ice Worldwide

Global warming is melting ice sheets, with potential sea-level rise and ecological disruption. At the same time, the melting ice reveals remnants of ancient life, from Ötzi the Iceman to artefacts in Norway and the Rocky Mountains, highlighting how climate change is uncovering archaeology while escalating environmental risks. The findings underscore the dual challenge of understanding climate change and mitigating its impacts.

Police arrest suspect in child sexual abuse case in Palembang

A 29-year-old man identified as RR was arrested by South Sumatra Police's Ditres PPA dan PPO for allegedly abusing a 10-year-old girl in Palembang. The incident occurred on 26 January 2026 after he abducted the pupil in front of her school and assaulted her in a secluded area; CCTV and ride-hailing app records aided the investigation, leading to his arrest the next day. He faces charges under Article 414(1)(B) and/or Article 415(B) of Law No. 1 of 2023.

Two Knife-Wielding Thieves Caught in Johar Baru Turn Out to Be Specialists in Scooter Theft

Two 26-year-olds, AW and I, were apprehended by residents while attempting to steal a scooter in Johar Baru, Central Jakarta. Police say the pair are scooter-theft specialists who had previously operated in North and East Jakarta; a Honda Beat scooter was recovered as evidence. The case highlights safety warnings ahead of Eid al-Fitr.

Experts Praise Polri's Traffic Directorate's Readiness, Creative Safety Campaign for Mudik 2026

Transport expert Darmaningtyas praised the readiness of Korlantas Polri, particularly its use of technology to confront Operation Ketupat 2026. Kakorlantas Irjen Agus Suryonugroho was also regarded as creative in campaigning for safety for Mudik travellers. While optimistic about toll-road traffic management, concerns were raised about non-tol road infrastructure and regional budget cuts, which could threaten arterial routes used by motorists.

Progress Reaches 62%, WIKA Accelerates Hankam Road and Sepaku Ring Road 4 Project

PT Wijaya Karya (WIKA) reports 62.83% progress on the Hankam Road and Sepaku Ring Road 4 project, a key infrastructure link within IKN. The company says the acceleration targets critical-path works to strengthen connectivity, support equitable development, and boost IKN's competitiveness. The project includes around 10.964 km of road, a Multi Utility Tunnel, six-lane pavement, and bridge works, under oversight by the Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing through the Directorate General of Highways.

PRR Task Force Accelerates Pilot Bridge Construction to Restore Connectivity

Satgas PRR is accelerating the construction of pilot bridges across Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra to restore connectivity and mobility for residents affected by the disaster. As of 3 March 2026, progress ranges from around 32% to 95% across sites, with Aceh’s Blang Teurekan bridge at 95% and eight Aceh projects already completed. The effort, conducted with the Indonesian Army, has the central government asserting full support to speed up reconstruction and logistics recovery.

97% of public fuel stations in disaster-affected Aceh–Sumatra region are now operational

Nearly all SPBU and SPBE in disaster-affected areas are back in operation, with 97% of 156 SPBU active and complete resumption of SPBE and LPG agents in Aceh, Sumut and Sumbar. Ongoing road access issues continue to affect fuel supply, underscoring given prioritisation of electricity, BBM and LPG in survivor recovery indicators.

Understanding the IDF's Latest Structure, Technology and Doctrine

The article surveys Israel's Defence Forces' 2026 reorganisation under a single command, the Hoshen Doctrine, and advances in AI and laser weapons. It also discusses conscription policy, defence budgeting, and the integration of technologies like Iron Beam and The Gospel to preserve military edge amid Middle East volatility.

North Sumatra's Investment Value in 2025 Exceeds Target, Simalungun Largest Contributor to Realisation

North Sumatra's investment realisation in 2025 surpassed the BKPM target, reaching Rp58.5 trillion. Simalungun Regency was the largest contributor, aided by the Sei Mangkei KEK, with manufacturing and pharmaceuticals among the leading sectors; Singapore remained the main source country at about 61%. The province plans to reach Rp100 trillion by 2029 and will expand oversight and support for businesses in partnership with all 33 regencies and cities.

Pekalongan Regent Creates 'Mother Company' With Husband and Child

The KPK disclosed that Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq, together with her husband and son, founded PT Raja Nusantara Berjaya (RNB) a year after her inauguration, allegedly using the company to influence outsourcing procurements across Pekalongan Regency. The case escalated following a KPK arrest, with the Regent named a sole suspect in 2023-2026 procurement cases; a warning by the Sekda about conflicts of interest was reportedly ignored.

Mirae Asset Sekuritas Responds After Office Raided by OJK

PT Mirae Asset Sekuritas Indonesia said it respects and will cooperate with the national financial regulator OJK's examination. OJK conducted a raid on the company's offices as part of an ongoing market-misconduct investigation, with authorities citing preliminary findings including misreported IPO-related funds and a web of related-party transactions linked to a surge in the share price of PT BEBS. MASI asserted that its operations would continue normally while it fully supports data requests, and noted the investigation covers activities between 2020 and 2022.

Polri uncovers illegal cosmetics case containing mercury and hydroquinone

The Indonesian National Police's Directorate of Narcotics Crime uncovered LC Beauty cosmetics produced without BPOM approval and containing mercury and hydroquinone, following laboratory tests on day cream, night cream, and toner and a subsequent raid in Cirebon. Investigators found raw materials, finished products and packaging, and are pursuing charges under health and penalty adjustment laws, with money-laundering probes to follow. The suspect ML is not detained due to pregnancy and post-operative condition.

Parliament urges BGN to evaluate MBG programme amid Ramadan protests

A parliamentary deputy urged the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to review the Free Nutritious Food (MBG) programme amid Ramadan protests by parents, after reports of MBG packs failing to meet budget or nutritional standards. She called for Ramadan-specific standards on shelf-life, balanced nutrition, and regional transparency to ensure every rupiah funds quality meals for fasting children.

Apologise and Make Peace with Victims of the Harley‑Davidson Moge Crash; HS Boss: From Now On You Are My Family

HS tobacco boss Muhammad Suryo has taken full responsibility for a crash involving a Harley-Davidson moge and a Yamaha Jupiter MX rider, Abdullah. The two families have reached a peaceful settlement, with Suryo covering medical costs and offering additional support, including education for Abdullah's son Deva; Suryo even communicated via video call that Abdullah is now part of his family.

DPR Member: Hajj Preparations Must Be Optimal Amid Geopolitical Tensions

DPR RI member Dini Rahmania urged that preparations for the 2026 Hajj should proceed optimally while remaining adaptive to evolving geopolitical developments. She emphasised early risk mitigation, strengthened oversight of Umrah travel organisers (PPIU), and enhanced cross-ministerial coordination to safeguard pilgrims and provide clear, accurate information.

PRR Task Force: 97 Percent of Sumatra Post-Disaster SPBU Operational

The PRR reported that as of 4 March 2026, 151 of 156 affected SPBU have resumed operations (97%), with five still offline due to road access constraints. Additional supply lines include eight alternative SPBU, 11 SPBE and 131 LPG agents now fully operational, with North Sumatra and West Sumatra reporting complete coverage, though some routes remain under repair. The PRR emphasises electricity, BBM and LPG, and communications as fundamental recovery indicators guiding priority actions.

Iran Claims Its Ballistic Missile Strike Hit a U.S. Destroyer in the Indian Ocean

IRGC says it struck a United States destroyer in the Indian Ocean with Ghadr-380 MRBM and Talaeieh missiles, while the warship was refuelling from a U.S. tanker. The attack allegedly caused widespread fires aboard both ships and is framed as part of Iran's retaliation in a broader confrontation with the United States and Israel.

Trash in front of Ciputat State Elementary School 2 no longer piles up as penalty banners appear

After a social media post showed rubbish piling up in front of SDN 2 Ciputat, a new ban on littering was displayed by Tangsel's Environmental Service. By 4 March 2026, the site had been cleared, with fines of Rp 500,000 and up to three months' imprisonment (or Rp 50,000,000 for repeat offences) advertised. Local traders say the banners have not deterred littering, and waste is often dumped at dawn by Pasar Ciputat residents.

Bahlil Guarantees Coal Stock for PLN Safe Through April 2026

The Indonesian energy minister says PLN's coal stock is secure through March and April 2026, despite government coal production cuts. He emphasises the government's RKAB restructuring to prioritise national needs, including PLN, and ongoing monitoring of PLN’s coal requirements to avert shortages.

Study finds fast-food restaurants contribute to local community employment

Oxford Economics' study estimates that McDonald's Indonesia supports 330 additional local jobs for every 100 directly employed staff, across sectors from farming to distribution. The research also shows 86% of supplier spend goes to local partners, with 76% of inputs sourced domestically, and highlights female representation among staff and leadership. The findings underscore McDonald's role in inclusive growth and local enterprise development in Indonesia.

Police Crack Down on LC Beauty in Cirebon; Mercury-Containing Cosmetics Factory Found

Police dismantled an illegal home-based cosmetics operation under the LC Beauty brand in Cirebon after laboratory tests showed mercury and hydroquinone in several products. A suspect, a woman identified by initials ML (35), has been named; investigations traced supply chains from a Depok reseller to Cirebon, where production was conducted in a private house. Investigators also seized equipment and a vehicle used for distribution.

Dozens of trees topple in Bandung as heavy rain and strong winds lash the city, crushing cars and damaging buildings

Heavy rain accompanied by strong winds knocked down at least 16 trees across Bandung, disrupting traffic and causing damage to vehicles and buildings. Authorities, led by BPBD Bandung, coordinate with fire and rescue services to clear debris and keep residents safe, urging heightened vigilance during the monsoon season.

Prabowo orders measures to prevent BBM-LPG shortages ahead of Eid al-Fitr 2026

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed the relevant ministries to anticipate shortages of BBM and LPG ahead of Eid al-Fitr 2026. In a limited meeting with Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia and Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan, officials reported that energy and food stocks remain affordable and will be closely monitored to ensure supply and price stability through Eid.

Askrindo Strengthens Social Role Through Ramadan Safari in 11 Cities

Askrindo, the Indonesian state-owned credit insurer, hosted a Ramadan Safari across 11 cities as part of its CSR, marking Ramadan 1447 H and the company's 55th anniversary. The programme included iftar gatherings and donations to 550 orphans via 13 foundations, aiming to reinforce social responsibility and community ties.

BNN and Santri Pasundan Strengthen the Next Generation's Resilience Against Narcotics

BNN and Santri Pasundan convened in Jakarta to bolster the generation's resilience against narcotics through prevention, enforcement, rehabilitation, and community-based empowerment under the P4GN framework. The meeting emphasised protecting youth from drug networks and building social resilience, signalling closer cooperation between government and civil society in Indonesia's anti-drug policy.

Building Permit Issued Before Environmental Impact Assessment, Jakarta DPRD Urges Probe into Kalideres Crematorium Permit

William A Sarana, a member of Jakarta's DPRD Commission A from the PSI faction, has urged a full investigation into the approval process for the Swarga Abadi Funeral Home and Crematorium in Kalideres, West Jakarta, after alleging administrative irregularities—namely that a Building Use Permit was issued before the Environmental Impact Assessment was completed. He argues the PBG was issued on the basis of a commitment to complete the Amdal, a loophole since environmental clearance remains unfinished, and questions the project's location in a densely populated area and potential conflicts with local burial regulations. He also questions the timing of licences for two crematoriums located close to one another in Kalideres, noting prior discussion of a Kalideres site in the Tegal Alur area.

Two padel courts in North Jakarta sealed for lack of permit

Two padel courts in North Jakarta have been sealed for not possessing a Building Permit (Persetujuan Bangunan Gedung / PBG). The North Jakarta Sub-Department of Public Works, Spatial Planning and Land (Sudin Citata) said the sealing affects courts in Ancol and Penjaringan, with no set deadline for reopening; operators must complete the required licensing process. Officials offered assistance in processing permits, while one venue manager confirmed the PBG is still being pursued.

Spot-check at Meta's Office: Meutya Hafid Urges Transparency of Algorithms and Content Moderation

Indonesia’s Minister of Communications and Digital Affairs, Meutya Hafid, conducted a spot-check at Meta’s Jakarta office, demanding transparency of its algorithms, content moderation and compliance with reporting rules. She warned that disinformation—especially on health and governance—has serious public consequences and called for stronger oversight. She noted the lack of clarity over how many staff are tasked with monitoring disinformation.

Mirae Asset Sekuritas Speaks Out After Office Raided by Bareskrim-OJK

Mirae Asset Sekuritas Indonesia has spoken out after its offices were searched by Bareskrim and OJK as part of an ongoing capital market investigation into potential insider trading and IPO-related manipulation. Officials say operations remain normal, while regulators describe significant profits allegedly linked to the case and frozen assets.

Top! This BRILink Agent Swiftly Serves Grobogan Residents on the Frontline

In Grobogan, Central Java, a BRILink Agent opened in 2018 when Rumiatun turned her fertiliser kiosk into a banking outlet, enabling cash withdrawals, transfers and BPNT disbursements and boosting financial inclusion. Despite initial challenges, BRILink now spans over 1.1 million agents across 66,000 villages by December 2025, underpinning broader financial access and inclusive economic activity.

Surya Group Chief Covers Medical Costs and Grants Scholarship to Accident Victim in Kulon Progo

Muhammad Suryo, founder of Surya Group and HS tobacco entrepreneur, is recovering from a motorbike accident in Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta. In the aftermath, Surya Group has fully covered medical expenses for Abdullah and his son Deva, and Suryo has provided a new motorcycle and a full university scholarship for Deva. The families exchanged apologies and expressed gratitude as Suryo's philanthropy extended to the victims’ care.

Former Indonesian Ambassador to Iran debunks misconceptions in Iran's 'erase Israel from the map' narrative

Dian Wirengjurit, a former Indonesian ambassador to Iran, argues that Western portrayals of Iran-Israel tensions misinterpret Iran's position. He clarifies that Ahmadinejad's 'erase Israel from the map' remark refers to regime replacement, not the physical destruction of Israel, and defends Iran's peaceful nuclear aims and tolerance toward its Jewish community. The discussion highlights broader geopolitical pressures in the Middle East and implications for Indonesia.

Nyepi Day Coincides with Eid al-Fitr Takbir Night, Minister Reports to Prabowo

The Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar, briefed President Prabowo Subianto that Nyepi Day could coincide with the expected Takbir night for Eid al-Fitr on 19 March. Agreements with Bali authorities and local leaders aim to ensure the Takbir does not disrupt Nyepi, with restrictions on sound systems between 06:00 and 09:00 and Isbat pending on Eid dating.

Fitch Revises Indonesia's Debt Outlook, Finance Ministry: Fundamentals Remain Strong

Fitch Ratings downgraded Indonesia's debt outlook from stable to negative, citing macroeconomic stability and a relatively moderate public debt structure. The Finance Ministry responded that Indonesia's strong fundamentals, fiscal discipline, and ongoing structural reforms keep growth on a positive trajectory, with indicators showing momentum into 2026. The government also highlighted strengthened cross-sector coordination and Danantara investments to sustain macroeconomic stability and attract high-value private capital.

The economy grows, but formal employment shrinks

The economist Chatib Basri highlights a shift in Indonesia's development pattern: while GDP growth persists, employment is increasingly shifting from formal to informal, risking the stability of the middle class and prompting questions about development strategy.

Iran rejects talks with the US, ready to continue the war

Iran’s aide to the late Supreme Leader says Tehran will not engage in talks with the United States and will persist with hostilities, citing eight years of wartime experience. Following US-Israeli strikes, Iran launched retaliatory missiles; the IRGC claims over 700 civilian casualties and accuses the adversaries of targeting civilian facilities to sow panic.

Another Padel Court Sealed Over Permit, Now in North Jakarta

Jakarta North City Government sealed two padel courts in Ancol and Penjaringan for lacking a Building Permit (PBG). The action, enforced by Sudin CKTRP and other UKPD, allows reopening once the owner has secured the PBG; authorities offer assistance with permitting. The incident highlights regulatory enforcement of building permits for sports facilities in Jakarta.

Fadli Says Cap Go Meh Celebration Is Proof of Indonesia's Cultural Harmony

Culture Minister Fadli Zon described Cap Go Meh as tangible proof of Indonesia's cultural strength that sustains unity amid diversity. The 2026 BSF Cap Go Meh was held in rainy conditions during Ramadan, signalling societal maturity in preserving tolerance and underscoring the principle of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika. The festival highlights Bogor's community participation and cross-ethnic collaboration, reflecting Chinese-Indonesian and Sundanese cultural acculturation while aiming to boost local culture and economy and maintain peace.

Two Japanese Firms Review the Contribution of the Wood Pellet Industry in Gorontalo

Two major Japanese firms, Tokyo Gas Co Ltd and Hanwa Co Ltd, visited Pohuwato Regency in Gorontalo on 2 March 2026 to assess PT Biomasa Jaya Abadi’s wood-pellet operations. The talks focused on legality, operations, and PT BJA’s social and economic impact, with the regency emphasising strong regulatory compliance, job creation for over 1,500 people, and environmental safeguards including staged land clearing and gamal-tree replanting.

IRGC Claims to Ravage IDF Headquarters and Israeli Defence Ministry

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) says it struck the Israel Defence Forces' General Staff HQ and the Israeli Defence Ministry in a major retaliatory attack, alleging heavy US–Israeli casualties. The claim follows February’s US–Israel air strikes on Iran and comes amid escalating regional tensions. It also states that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in the attack, prompting retaliatory Iranian missile strikes across the Middle East.

SMF Targets to Rejoin the Griya Tuntas Subsidised Housing Programme in 2026

SMF says it will likely participate again in the government's Griya Tuntas housing repair and subsidised home programmes. It accounts for 25% of FLPP financing with a fixed 5% rate for 20 years, and in 2025 supported nearly 195,000 FLPP units while the Griya Tuntas target was exceeded with 52,000 units realised.

Nuanu Holds Gastronomy Forum to Strengthen Bali's Position

A Bali-focused gastronomy forum hosted by Nuanu Creative City gathered chefs, restaurant owners, hospitality operators, investors, and industry associations to discuss how Bali can grow into a globally recognised culinary hub. The discussions emphasised clear regulation, sustainable business models, and strong professional standards, while unveiling Sutala, a 44-hectare culinary district, as part of Bali's evolving gastronomic ecosystem.

After being questioned by residents, Debi Ceper presents running race plans to the Depok Metropolitan Police Chief

Comedian Debi Ceper met with Depok Metropolitan Police Chief Commissioner Abdul Waras to push for an officially sanctioned Ramadan running race. The meeting emphasised adherence to legal procedures, with district-level heats and a final at Depok City Hall planned under police oversight. Proponents say well-managed events can channel youth energy positively without disturbing public order.

Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq Almost Evaded the KPK Pursuit, Arrested While Charging an Electric Car

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it nearly lost track of Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq during a sting operation in Semarang, Central Java, on Tuesday night (3 March 2026). She was found and arrested in the early hours after the team traced her to an electric car charging at a SPKLU station. The KPK has named her a suspect in a case of alleged outsourcing and procurement corruption in Pekalongan Regency for 2023–2026 and has ordered detention pending further investigation; the case involves PT RNB, a company linked to her family.

Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq Named Suspect in KPK Sting Operation While Charging Electric Car

The KPK has named Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq as a corruption suspect after she was arrested in a sting operation while charging her electric car. The case centres on outsourcing contracts worth Rp46 billion with the Pekalongan Regency government, with prosecutors alleging that around Rp19 billion was siphoned off to Fadia's family; several relatives and associates are implicated. The KPK also seized five vehicles and linked a company to Fadia's campaign team.

Domestic Worker Protection Bill to Regulate BPJS for Domestic Workers and Define the Legal Status of Recruitment Agencies

DPR RI Commission XIII chair Willy Aditya said the Domestic Worker Protection Bill (RUU PPRT) is being redrafted from scratch to address public demands, notably protecting domestic workers from modern slavery and ensuring recruitment agencies operate as legal entities. The bill also contemplates extending BPJS coverage to domestic workers, potentially through the PBI (Penerima Bantuan Iuran) group.

In 2025, FIF records net profit of Rp4.63 trillion

In 2025, FIF, an Astra subsidiary, posted a net profit of Rp4.63 trillion, up 4.92% year-on-year from Rp4.42 trillion in 2024. Financing disbursements rose to Rp49.45 trillion by end-2025, with 3.39 million financed units, while the company maintained a healthy net non‑performing financing ratio of 0.20% as per OJK.

Electric Car Range Could Be Further Depleted During Eid Homecoming

Long-distance travel in electric cars during the Eid al-Fitr 2026 homecoming requires careful planning as real-world range can be reduced by common driving patterns and traffic conditions. Experts warn that aggressive acceleration, high speeds, frequent braking, heavy vehicle loading, and the energy demands of air conditioning and infotainment systems can rapidly drain the battery, especially in traffic. Drivers are advised to avoid letting the battery run too low before charging on congested routes to maintain a comfortable journey.

Risk Management and Governance Focus for Bank Jakarta Amid Industry Change

Bank Jakarta argues that healthy growth in the banking sector must be underpinned by strong governance and disciplined risk management, with a culture that recognises risk across all units. The bank collected two 2026 awards—the Indonesia Enterprise Risk Management Award and the Indonesia Best CFO Awards—recognising its risk management framework and financial leadership.

Analyst: Lenient Penalties Leave Local Leaders Undeterred by Corruption

An anti-corruption scholar argues that lenient penalties fail to deter local officials from abusing power, with procurement as a frequent entry point for graft. The case of Pekalongan’s regent and calls for reform of pilkada recruitment, digitalisation, and tougher sanctions are cited as steps to break the cycle.

Mahindra Denies Indonesia Has Halted 35,000 Pickup Imports, Reveals Delivery Schedule

Mahindra asserts it has not received any official notice of a halt to vehicle supplies, and maintains a 35,000-unit export order to Indonesia remains active. The deal with Agrinas Pangan Nusantara is poised to boost the company's international volumes, with potential spillovers for Mahindra's global operations.

Iran–Israel–US tensions spark surge in gold prices, new highs on the horizon

Geopolitical frictions in the Middle East between the US-Israel coalition and Iran have driven demand for gold as a safe haven. Analysts say bullion could reach new highs, above US$5,500–5,600 per troy ounce, subject to dollar strength and oil prices. The market also faces heightened volatility ahead of US retail and jobs data.

Putin offers to mediate between Gulf states and Iran

Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered to act as a mediator between Gulf Arab states and Iran, drawing on Moscow's ties with Tehran to help stabilise the Middle East after US–Israeli attacks. In a series of calls with Gulf leaders, he proposed conveying the UAE’s concerns to Tehran and urged an immediate ceasefire and a return to diplomacy.

Gold Demand Expected to Continue Rising, BSI Assures Adequate Stock

BSI says its gold stock from suppliers is adequate to meet a demand it expects to keep rising. It will reinforce inventory management and educate customers to invest in gold in a phased, long-term manner, with real-time purchases via the BYOND app starting at around Rp50,000 and the option to transfer gramme balances and collect minted gold at branches. Gold prices have climbed more than 50% over the past year, and BSI's bullion bank customers grew 44% in January–February 2026, underpinning sales growth.

OJK Freezes 2 Billion BEBS Shares Following Mirae Asset's Price Manipulation

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) has frozen about 2 billion BEBS shares in connection with alleged stock manipulation around the BEBS IPO and dummy trades by Mirae Asset Sekuritas. The probe alleges gains of up to Rp14.5 trillion and a dramatic price surge on the regular market, tied to a network of affiliates and nominees and insider trading concerns.

Survey Finds HIV/AIDS Knowledge Quite High, Yet Prevention Attitudes Remain Contradictory

A survey of 644 respondents in Lembata, East Nusa Tenggara, shows broad knowledge of HIV/AIDS, including transmission and prevention, but persistent stigma in attitudes toward people living with HIV (ODHIV). The findings highlight weak village-level socialisation by pemdes, underscoring the need for stronger local HIV/AIDS programmes to counter misinformation and discrimination.

DJP records Coretax activation surpassing 15 million and SPT submissions at 5.7 million as of 4 March

Indonesia's tax authority, the Directorate General of Taxes (DJP), has reported Coretax activations reaching 15.14 million and annual tax return submissions at 5.74 million as of 4 March 2026. The agency detailed the breakdown by taxpayer type and emphasised online activation, while warning of administrative fines for late SPT filings.

Man killed by forklift at Marunda container depot is not an employee of the depot's PT

A man identified as GH (44) was killed when a forklift ran him over at a container depot in Marunda, North Jakarta. Police say he was not an employee of the depot’s PT, and the forklift operator has been detained for negligence as investigators probe whether there was intent or negligence rather than a deliberate act.

Two senior Communist Party officials absent at top Chinese political event

Two senior Communist Party officials, Zhang Youxia and Ma Xingrui, were missing from the top tier at the CPPCC opening, signaling ongoing purges at the highest levels. Zhang is under investigation for suspected serious violations, while Ma has not been seen since October after being removed from Xinjiang leadership; the absence of such senior figures underscores intensified political discipline ahead of major year-end power consolidations. The CPPCC president Wang Huning framed 2025 as a year of great significance for China's modernization, highlighting the leadership's drive amid downward economic pressure.

Why Fitch Revises Indonesia’s Debt Outlook to Negative

Fitch Ratings has revised the outlook for Indonesia’s Long-Term Foreign-Currency Issuer Default Rating to negative from stable, while keeping the sovereign rating at BBB. The agency cites policy uncertainty, governance concerns, and expected expansion of social spending and deficits as risks to macroeconomic stability, despite continued GDP growth around 5% and an investment-friendly stance.

PELNI projects Lebaran 2026 passenger numbers to fall by 1.4%

PELNI projects 641,025 sea passengers for Lebaran 2026, down about 1.43% from 2025's projection of 650,329. The downward projection stems from adjusting the requested dispensations for passenger capacity, not a drop in demand. The article also details regional passenger distributions, the expected peak travel days, and the busiest ports and routes.

Pekalongan Regent Performs Only Ceremonial Duties, Delegates Bureaucracy to Subordinates

The KPK says Fadia Arafiq admitted she mostly performed ceremonial duties while Pekalongan Regent and handed bureaucratic tasks to the regency's secretary, a claim that raises questions about good governance as KPK expands its corruption case involving outsourcing and other procurements in Pekalongan. The agency arrested her and 11 others in a Ramadan sting, and has named her the sole suspect in the 2023-2026 case.

PT Pertamina Ensures Fuel Availability on Karimunjawa Island, Jepara

PT Pertamina has assured supplies of Pertalite and Biosolar on Karimunjawa Island from Ramadan through Eid al-Fitr 2026, employing a multi-layered distribution strategy including stockpiling, ASDP ferry-based transport, and potential use of KRI warships in rough seas. The plan accounts for expected demand patterns, with Biosolar typically declining during Eid while Pertalite remains steady, and the local population totaling about 9,800 across five islands.

Baznas Distributes 100,000 Litres of Clean Water to Gaza Residents

Baznas RI distributed 100,000 litres of clean water in the Al Jalaa region of Gaza to aid 2,500 Palestinians affected by the water crisis. Baznas’ chairman Noor Achmad described the operation as a vital emergency response during Ramadan and vowed ongoing support, including monitoring to ensure basic needs such as food, water and health services remain accessible.

Nuclear or Regime Change? Weighing Iran's Geopolitical Future and Indonesia's Economic Prospects

Rising Middle East tensions threaten global energy markets and Indonesia's macro stability. The piece argues that while Iran's nuclear ambitions are central, Western-led regime-change narratives could prolong conflict and provoke market volatility. Jakarta signals active diplomacy via the UN and OIC while pursuing domestic energy self-sufficiency and diversification to cushion shocks.

RM4.7 trillion scandal in Malaysia involves Arm Holdings, the chip giant

Malaysia's Anti-Corruption Commission is probing alleged abuse of power, fraud and governance breaches linked to a RM1.11 billion deal with Arm Holdings. The inquiry has summoned witnesses from multiple ministries, including a former minister, highlighting concerns over governance in a high-profile government-technology agreement. The case underscores Malaysia's bid to upgrade its semiconductor capabilities, including access to chip design and higher-value manufacturing.

To prevent accidents, guards stationed at PAM Jaya excavation site in Condet

Authorities in Kramat Jati, East Jakarta, have deployed a joint security team around a PAM Jaya excavation site to prevent motorcyclists from falling into the trench. Officials say the absence of guarding and warning signs at the site poses risks, and PAM Jaya has agreed to install additional signage by Thursday to protect road users, especially at night. The measure seeks to minimise accident risks and maintain road safety.

Prospective Civil Servants Urged to Understand Border Area Governance

Indonesia's BNPP launched the BNPP MENYALA programme at IPDN in Kalimantan Barat on 3 March 2026 to prepare future civil servants for border governance. The initiative will visit eight border provincial capitals to foster understanding of the region's challenges and opportunities, emphasising cross‑sector coordination and humane public service. Officials stressed the need for integrity and a global perspective in managing border areas.

Serving Consumers from Ramadan to Eid al-Fitr 2026, Pertamina Patra Niaga Implements These 4 Pillars

Pertamina Patra Niaga has outlined four pillars to serve energy needs during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 2026, including 24-hour SPBU coverage, extensive Pertashop and LPG networks, and additional services such as Serambi MyPertamina rest areas and mobile delivery. The programme also includes modular BBM units and other support measures on busy routes to ensure reliable supply and traveller assistance.

Yaqut Prepares Experts to Challenge KPK's Suspect-Designation Procedure

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas will call three to four expert witnesses at the evidentiary stage of his pre-trial challenge against the KPK. The hearing is scheduled at the South Jakarta District Court on 5 March 2026. His lawyer argues that the KPK has misapplied KUHAP provisions and that the suspect designation may have been carried out by unauthorised leadership, raising procedural questions.

Riau targets reforestation of 66,704 hectares of land in Tesso Nilo National Park

In Riau Province, the Tesso Nilo National Park Restoration Acceleration Team aims to reforest 66,704 hectares by 2028 to restore it as a functioning conservation area. The team has identified about 10,600 hectares under ownership of 3,916 households, with 633 hectares relocated for 227 households and about 9,966 hectares of alternative land clearly mapped. The plan emphasises integrated protection and enforcement, legal certainty for land, zonation-based reforestation, and ongoing, systematic monitoring, with central government funding sought to meet the targets.

Tearful Welcome as the Body of Jembrana's PMI, Who Died in Russia, Arrives Home

The body of Ni Made Dwi Arya Wati, a 36-year-old Indonesian migrant worker from Jembrana who died in Russia, has been repatriated and welcomed with tears at her home. The body landed at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport and was escorted by local officials and the Bali AP3MI task force. Officials said the repatriation proceeded quickly due to a formal contract and visa, but Russia’s autopsy requirement means autopsy results are still pending.

US stocks fall amid Wall Street concerns over Iran conflict

US stocks fell on Tuesday as investors weighed a widening Iran conflict and the prospect of broader Middle East involvement. The Dow Jones, S&P 500 and Nasdaq closed lower, with all 11 S&P sectors in the red, while volatility surged. Energy prices rose and several corporate earnings news provided mixed signals, including Target's upbeat guidance and notable moves in Plug Power and MongoDB.

BMH West Java Applauds Dai and Qur'anic Teachers in Bandung Raya

BMH West Java distributed Ramadan care packages to dozens of dai and Qur'anic teachers in Bandung Raya, highlighting their vital role in guiding the community. The aid, delivered at the Hidayatullah pesantren in Bandung Regency, includes essentials, worship items and Eid al-Fitr funding. The organisation intends the programme as an annual gesture to support moral guardians in communities with limited facilities.

The History of Measles: Discoverers, Origins, and the Evolution of Vaccines Through the Ages

An overview tracing the measles virus from its origins in cattle disease to modern vaccines, highlighting al-Razi’s early distinction of measles, Enders' lab attenuation and the 1963 licensing, and continuing outbreaks in under-immunised regions as of 2026.

Cart-Pushers Phenomenon in Jakarta, Pramono: We Have Suppressed It

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says enforcement against Penyandang Masalah Kesejahteraan Sosial in public spaces continues, highlighting the crackdown on the 'cart-pushers' and the inauguration of Satpol PP officials who will be reinforced on the ground. He frames the moves as part of preserving Jakarta's image as a global, orderly, and humane city, while loosening education requirements for PJLP to expand employment opportunities.

Bahlil Stresses Coal Supply for Power Plants Secure Through April

Indonesia’s Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says coal supplies for PLN are secure through April 2026, with the government monitoring domestic demand and organising production under RKAB. He reiterates a plan to cut coal output in 2026 to balance the market, arguing Indonesia’s large share of global coal trade has contributed to lower prices. He emphasises coal is a state asset to be managed sustainably and that RKAB focuses on meeting national needs first.

Gus Yaqut faction questions the validity of the Rp 622 billion loss calculation in the Hajj quota case

The camp of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas questions the validity of the Rp 622 billion loss figure in the Hajj quota corruption case, claiming the calculation has not yet been audited and stems from an investigative review. The KPK defends the calculation, citing a completed BPK audit and stating the case meets the legal thresholds for corruption, while the parties clash over the nature and source of the loss figure and the admissibility of the pretrial challenge.

Pramono Rejects Negotiations to Operate Residential Padel Courts After 8 p.m.

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has refused to relax the 8 p.m. cap on residential padel courts, even for those with a Building Use Permit (PBG). He also reiterated that all padel facilities must obtain a business licence and comply with soundproofing requirements if they cause noise, with enforcement to be strict.

Requirements to Claim Free DANA Balance Today, Payouts Up to Rp345,000

In March 2026, the pursuit of additional income through digital wallets has surged. The article outlines official steps to claim a free DANA balance of up to Rp345,000, including the DANA Kaget feature and daily missions, with cautions about quotas and account verification.

Polri Traffic Police Campaigns for Mudik Safety Through Song

Polri's Traffic Corps launched the Ketupat 2026 tagline 'Mudik Aman, Keluarga Bahagia' and introduced a safety anthem 'Mudik Tertib Ojo Kesusu' at Bank Mega Tower on 3 March 2026. The campaign emphasises safe, orderly travel for Eid exodus and back, with collaboration from government and private sector stakeholders to ensure a secure operation.

Ghetts jailed for 12 years in fatal hit-and-run case

A British court at the Old Bailey has sentenced rapper Ghetts, real name Justin Jude Clarke-Samuel, to 12 years in prison for causing the death of a Nepalese student, 20-year-old Yubin Tamang, in a fatal hit-and-run last year. Prosecutors said he drove dangerously while intoxicated in a BMW M5, ran a red light, and drove on the wrong side of the road before colliding with Tamang, then fled the scene and drove about 12 kilometres home without offering assistance. The defendant apologised to the family in a letter, but the judge upheld the sentence for driving well above the speed limit and leaving the scene.

Passenger movements at Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport, Aceh, ease during Ramadan

Passenger traffic at Aceh's Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport eased during Ramadan 1447 AH, with daily travellers typically down from around 2,300–2,500 to about 1,400–1,600. The decline is attributed to fewer out-of-area and international visitors, while locals devote Ramadan to religious observance; some foreign tourists, especially from Malaysia, also visit to experience Ramadan in Aceh’s Serambi Mekah. Operational activity remained normal, with free takjil distributed to departing and arriving passengers as the Maghrib call to prayer sounded.

Today's Iftar Schedule, 4 March 2026: Jakarta Awaits Maghrib

Jakarta's Ramadan timetable lists today's Imsak and Maghrib times, providing residents with the official schedule for breaking the fast. The times, drawn from the Bimas Islam imsakiyah, place Maghrib at 18:14 and Imsak at 04:33, guiding worshippers through the day's pivotal moments.

Iran–US Conflict Widens, Watch Oil Price Impacts and the Fate of Indonesian Citizens in the Middle East

The Iran–US conflict, with Israel, escalates after stalled Geneva talks, with US air strikes on Iranian cities and Iranian retaliation targeting US bases and Gulf infrastructure. Indonesia warns of knock-on effects on energy security and urges protective measures for Indonesian citizens abroad, while considering energy supply diversification.

Meutya Hafid Conducts Surprise Visit to Meta Office, Raises Disinformation Content Concerns

Indonesian Minister of Communications and Digital Meutya Hafid, flanked by a delegation of ministry and security officials, conducted a surprise inspection of Meta's office in Jakarta to press for action on disinformation. They demanded algorithm transparency, openness in content moderation, and clearer reporting obligations, emphasising intensified monitoring for Indonesia’s large digital market of around 230 million internet users.

Two Motorcycle Thieves Caught in Johar Baru, Previously Active in Sunter

Two men identified as AW and I were captured by residents while attempting to steal a motorcycle in Johar Baru, Central Jakarta. Police say they admitted to previously stealing a bike and hiding it in Sunter, North Jakarta, and they face charges under Article 363 KUHP for aggravated theft. The incident was recorded on CCTV and circulated on social media.

Amran Names Distributors as the Main Culprits Behind Expensive Beef and Chicken

The head of Indonesia's National Food Agency, Andi Amran Sulaiman, blames middlemen for recent spikes in beef and chicken prices, saying distributors have raised prices ahead of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. The government has vowed to revoke licenses of illicit distributors and cites SP2KP data showing prices hovering above the price reference, with average beef and chicken prices near or above set thresholds.

Arief Hidayat: The Constitutional Court Is Made Up of People Who Can Also Err

Arief Hidayat cautions that the Supreme Court (MK) is composed of nine judges who can still err, noting that MK rulings have provoked public debate. He argues for proportionality in parliament's threshold to balance political stability, party simplification, and decision-making ease, referencing MK Decision No. 116 as an example.

President Prabowo to Host Iftar with Ulama Tomorrow

President Prabowo Subianto is set to host an iftar with ulama in Jakarta on Thursday, 5 March 2026. The event will bring together religious leaders from Islamic organisations and pesantren, with plans for technical arrangements to be finalised. Earlier, the president invited former presidents, former vice presidents, and a former foreign minister to Istana Merdeka as part of Ramadhan silaturahmi, where issues including the Iran–Israel conflict and the BoP were discussed.

Gibran Urges Teachers and Parents to Master AI in the Digital Transformation Era

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka urged teachers and parents to master AI as part of preparing for digital transformation, during the AI Ready ASEAN workshop in Bandung. The government under President Prabowo Subianto frames AI literacy as essential for national progress, insisting adaptation is a shared responsibility and that AI should be used ethically with critical and computational thinking. The remarks highlight a policy push to raise digital literacy across education and public services while safeguarding integrity.

West Java Provincial Government Provides Hotline for West Java Residents in the Middle East

The West Java governor announced a hotline for residents in the Middle East to seek help amid the Israel–US and Iran conflict. The number is intended to safeguard safety, while the Indonesian embassy in Tehran has urged WNI to take concrete steps to protect themselves and report updates. The move shows ongoing coordination between provincial and national authorities to assist citizens abroad during regional tensions.

BMKG forecasts the 2026 dry season will be longer than usual

BMKG projects that the 2026 dry season will be largely below normal across most of Indonesia, with a longer-than-normal drought period affecting more than half the country. The agency urges proactive measures across government and society to adapt agriculture and bolster water resources, water supply, and air quality management to mitigate drought risks.

Global Energy Nightmare Comes True, Global Economy at Risk

The conflict threatens to disrupt oil and LNG supply via the Strait of Hormuz, risking higher prices and macroeconomic strain for energy-importing nations. Markets are pricing longer disruptions, with key regions like Asia most exposed; IMF and ECB analyses indicate inflation and growth risks if prices stay elevated.

Eid al-Fitr 2026 Homecoming: Pertamina Prepares 7,885 Fuel Stations

Pertamina Patra Niaga is mobilising 7,885 SPBU and 6,662 LPG agents to ensure energy supply during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 2026, including 2,074 SPBU operating 24 hours. The programme includes Pertashop outlets, modular BBM services, rest facilities at Serambi MyPertamina, and free towing/service cars to support travellers on major routes and tol highways.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Teams Up with MyTelkomsel to Offer Data Packages with BBM e-Voucher Benefits for Ojek Online Drivers

Pertamina Patra Niaga has launched a MyPertamina x MyTelkomsel collaboration to provide a MyTelkomsel data package for ojek online drivers, bundled with a Rp25,000 MyPertamina BBM e-Voucher valid for use at Pertamina petrol stations from 1 to 30 March 2026. The initiative strengthens Indonesia’s digital payments ecosystem and loyalty programmes, complements Pertamina’s BOOM drive programme, and aims to expand MyPertamina adoption across the country.

Said Iqbal Urges Prabowo to Reject War Between Iran and the US–Israel: Threatens Workers’ Welfare

Said Iqbal, head of the Labour Party, has urged Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to publicly oppose any war between Iran and the United States–Israel, warning that a conflict would hurt Indonesian workers through higher cotton and textile prices and possible layoffs. He also urged the UN Human Rights Council, chaired by Indonesia, to designate Benjamin Netanyahu as a war criminal, arguing it would justify Indonesia’s leadership of the council and protect workers’ welfare.

DPR and Pertamina conduct spot check on 3 kg LPG availability in Kudus

Jamaludin Malik of the DPR led a joint spot check with Pertamina Patra Niaga and local authorities at two Kudus locations, finding no shortage of 3 kg LPG. The checks responded to public complaints ahead of Ramadan, with supply confirmed as adequate and prices at Rp18,000 per cylinder; authorities vow further random inspections and urge purchase of subsidised LPG only by eligible households.

UI guarantees data security in digital transformation

UI's Rector Prof. Heri Hermansyah pledges data security as the University of Indonesia advances its digital transformation. He outlines four governance pillars and describes UI Digital Leap 2026 as part of Unggul Impactful 2024–2029, aiming for integrated administration, data-driven decisions, and stronger information security. The move emphasises leadership and culture as decisive factors beyond technology.

Yaqut's Legal Counsel Says the Hajj Quota Is Not a State Loss

Yaqut Cholil Qoumas’s legal counsel has disputed the KPK’s claims of irregularities in Indonesia’s 2023–2024 haj quota, arguing the quota is not state property and cannot be treated as a loss. The KPK alleges three irregularities and cites a Rp 622 billion potential loss, but the lawyer questions the basis and status of the related audit documents. The case resumes with evidence presentation at the next hearing on 5 March 2026.

Residents welcome the new Sarinah pedestrian overpass, urge cleanliness to be maintained

The revitalised Sarinah pedestrian overpass in Central Jakarta is now open, with residents praising its appearance and accessibility for pedestrians and Transjakarta users. The upgrades include lifts and Ramadan/Eid al-Fitr decorations, and officials emphasise cleanliness and ongoing public benefit, with Jakarta's governor noting its historic status as the city's first JPO.

Little Artists Art Studio, Singapore Shines at Art Capital 2026

Little Artists Art Studio in Singapore reaffirmed its growing international footprint at Art Capital 2026 at the Grand Palais, following a historic 2025 debut when its students became the first children to be included in Art Capital’s 200-year history and won the Prix D’Innovation. The studio showcased a curated body of work across age groups, including neurodiverse artists, to an international audience of collectors, curators and critics, with praise for the maturity of the young artists’ imagination. The event underscores Singapore’s emerging role as a producer of future cultural leaders, with alumni going on to leading institutions and global exhibitions.

BBPOM confirms takjil in North Jakarta are free from hazardous substances

The Jakarta Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BBPOM) has conducted joint checks with North Jakarta authorities to ensure takjil sold for breaking the fast are safe and free from hazardous chemicals. Of 58 samples tested, no formaldehyde, borax, or rhodamine B were detected, indicating that traders are using ingredients that meet safety standards. The operation emphasises ongoing public-health oversight during Ramadan and involved educational outreach to traders via the Pramuka Scouts.

Jakarta's Waste Management Draws Attention as DPRD Urges More Comprehensive Evaluation

The Jakarta DPRD, led by PSI member Bun Joi Phiau, calls for a comprehensive review of waste governance amid issues with TPS, oversight, and RDF Rorotan, urging the formation of a Special Committee (Pansus) to examine policy, budgeting, and project implementation, to improve transparency and effectiveness for residents.

Wamendag urges businesses to utilise international trade agreements.

Indonesia's Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro Esti has urged Indonesian business players to maximise the use of trade agreements with strategic partners. She argues that leveraging these deals can broaden markets on the global stage and deliver broad domestic economic benefits thanks to their multiplier effects. She notes that trade agreements vary in scale, with the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) being the largest, including IEU-CEPA with the European Union to reduce tariff and non-tariff barriers and boost exports, investment and economic cooperation; PTAs and FTAs focus on goods and services and broader topics such as sustainability.

7 Speeches by the Chair of the Nuzulul Quran 2026 Committee at the Mosque

The article provides seven example opening speeches by chairs of the Nuzulul Quran 2026 committee for mosque events, covering formal, community complex, youth, and campus variations. It frames these speeches within guidelines on public speaking and emphasises gratitude, reflection on the Quran, and strengthening communal ties during Ramadan.

March 2026 Update on Trail and Adventure Motorcycle Prices, A Newcomer Joins the Field

In March 2026, Indonesia's trail and adventure motorcycle segment continued to show positive momentum as interest in long-distance riding and cross-terrain exploration grew. Japanese brands still dominate entry-to-mid level, but Chinese and European brands are pricing aggressively with modern features; highlights include QJMotor's Tourino 250 DX at Rp 49,900,000 as the most affordable 250 cc in its class, and price adjustments for CFMoto models.

Payment Digitalisation: The Silent Path to a Post-Dollar World

This piece outlines how cross-border payment digitalisation and regional settlement schemes, led by Indonesia and BIS-backed initiatives, aim to reduce reliance on the US dollar. It explains the potential of Central Bank Digital Currencies, Local Currency Settlement, and INR cross-border platforms to cut costs and improve efficiency, while noting regulatory, security, and governance challenges that must be addressed.

Pelni forecasts Lebaran mudik peak on 18 March 2026, with 751,550 tickets prepared

Pelni announced its Lebaran 2026 travel plan, forecasting the peak mudik exodus on 18 March 2026 and an allotment of 751,550 tickets across 55 ships (25 passenger vessels and 30 ferries). The operator will implement route adjustments, additional vessel support, and higher sailing frequency to increase capacity to around 641,000 passengers, under government stimulus and oversight by relevant authorities.

Ahead of the 2026 Eid al-Fitr travel rush, KAI Daop 4 ensures all locomotives ready to operate

Ahead of the 2026 Eid al-Fitr travel season, PT KAI Daop 4 Semarang's Depo Lokomotif Tegal confirms all locomotives in service—particularly those for the Tegal Bahari service—are fit for operation after strict daily checks. The depot will keep 24-hour technical support on standby and has prepared spare locomotives and trains, with ramp-checks confirming the fleet's readiness for Eid. The report highlights the emphasis on safety, maintenance discipline and inter-depot cooperation to support safe, on-time travel during Lebaran.

Middle East Conflict in Chaos as China Shuts Down Businesses in Arab States

The escalation of the US–Israel–Iran conflict spills into the Middle East, affecting robotaxi operators. Chinese firms WeRide, Apollo Go and Pony.ai pause or adjust operations in the UAE and neighbouring markets while regulators monitor the situation.

Railway Lines Become a Mainstay of Distribution as KAI Transports 42,405 Tonnes of Goods at the Start of 2026

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) reported 42,405 tonnes of retail goods transported in January–February 2026, indicating solid distribution ahead of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 1447 AH / 2026 AD. The data highlight the benefits of scheduled rail services, including for UMKM, with stable lead times that support efficient movement from production centres to consumption hubs. The year 2025 also saw growth, with retail transport reaching 252,976 tonnes, reinforcing rail’s role in strengthening inter-regional supply chains and reducing road congestion.

Kakorlantas Launches Safe Mudik Campaign: Safe Homecoming, Happy Family

Police Traffic Corps (Kakorlantas) announced the 2026 Ketupat Operation tagline 'Mudik Aman, Keluarga Bahagia' and unveiled the safety-campaign song 'Mudik Tertib Ojo Kesusu' at Bank Mega Tower. The move underscores the police's commitment to safeguarding mudik and balik Lebaran traffic during Operation Ketupat 2026, with readiness across toll roads, arterial routes, crossings, places of worship and tourist sites; success hinges on broad stakeholder collaboration to ensure safe, orderly travel.

Profile of the Murder Victim in Jatibening, Bekasi: Retired JICT Employee

Ermanto Usman, a 65-year-old former JICT employee and long-time anti-corruption activist, was killed at his home in Jatibening, Bekasi, with his wife also injured. He is regarded as a key figure in uncovering alleged multi-trillion rupiah losses in the port sector and in pushing for investigations that authorities say may involve high-level players. His death underscores risks faced by anti-corruption campaigners and has prompted calls for protection for his family.

Iftar Gathering and Orphans’ Charity: A Collaboration between INI and IPPAT in the Spirit of Ukhuwah Ramadan 1447 AH

Indonesian Notary Association (INI) and the Association of Land Deed Officials (IPPAT) organised an Iftar gathering and charity for orphans on 4 March 2026 at the Birawa Assembly Hall in Jakarta, to foster ukhuwah Islamiyah and professional collaboration. The event, chaired by H. Zulfanovriyendi, featured remarks by leaders of both organisations and a charitable giving to orphans, underscoring social responsibility during Ramadan.

OJK to Examine Documents From Search in Rp14.5 Trillion Capital Market Case

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Indonesian Police’s Criminal Investigation Unit conducted a search at Mirae Asset Sekuritas Indonesia (MASI), seizing documents and USB data storage devices as part of an ongoing capital market probe involving transactions worth Rp14.5 trillion. Two suspects, identified by the initials AS and M, have had their case files completed and forwarded to prosecutors for the next stage (P21). The investigation involves around 2 billion shares priced at about Rp7,000 per share and the shares are currently non-tradable; MASI says it is cooperating and operations continue normally.

Kalideres Crematorium Permit Described as a Blatant Breach of Local By-Law

A member of Jakarta's DPRD Commission A accuses the Kalideres crematorium project of flouting Local Regulation No. 3/2007, citing its siting near dense housing and schools. He also raises concerns of maladministration in issuing the permit, noting the Building Permit (PBG) was granted before the Environmental Impact Assessment (AMDAL) and based on only a commitment letter from the foundation.

Reading Prabowo's Move to Gather the Elite Amid the Middle East Conflict

President Prabowo Subianto convened senior political figures at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta to discuss the escalating Middle East crisis. The meeting floated Indonesia's readiness as a potential mediator and reinforced a stance of sovereignty, while discussions about BoP membership and national interests were noted. Analysts say the gathering seeks to consolidate political legitimacy and signal resilience to markets amid volatile geopolitics.

Mirae Asset Respects Investigation Process by Bareskrim and OJK

MASI says it is cooperating with ongoing investigations and that operations remain normal. Police and OJK conducted a search at MASI's South Jakarta offices as part of a capital market case spanning 2020–2022. Investigators allege manipulation of material facts and dummy transactions linked to MASI, with insider trading illegal gains estimated at Rp14.5 trillion; two individuals and MASI as a corporate suspect have been named.

Two NTT Provincial Government Ships Run Aground After Being Struck by Waves at Alak Beach

Two government-owned ferries, KMP Pulau Sabu and KMP Sirung, owned by the NTT provincial government, ran aground off Alak Beach in Kupang after anchors reportedly failed during a spell of extreme weather. The vessels, previously berthed at Hansisi Wharf, Semau, sustained serious hull damage. Authorities are weighing options, including sale or leasing of the assets, while prioritising provincial finances and ongoing poverty and stunting reduction programmes.

Creative Economy Minister: War Erupts, MSMEs Could Become a Pillar of Indonesia's Economy

The Indonesian Creative Economy Minister warns that rising geopolitical tensions, including in the Middle East, could affect the economy, and urges strengthening domestic UMKM and the creative sector while pursuing export opportunities; he also emphasises domestic-market resilience and digital upskilling for SMEs.

Today's Iftar Schedule in Bandung on 4 March 2026

This article provides Bandung's Ramadan prayer times for 14 Ramadhan 1447H, including Imsak, Subuh, Terbit, Dhuha, Dzuhur, Ashar, Maghrib (18:15 WIB) and Isya. It emphasises Maghrib as the time to break the fast and promotes reading the Qur'an, with a note on Republika's Imsakiyah as the source, and mentions access to a digital Qur'an.

Pregnant Women Must Know: The Fatal Impact of the Measles Virus That Can Cross the Placenta

This piece highlights how measles can threaten fetal safety for pregnant women, especially if immunity is lacking. It stresses pre-pregnancy MMR vaccination, possible post-exposure immunoglobulin prophylaxis, and rubella risks to the fetus, urging vaccination and prompt medical consultation to prevent severe outcomes.

Medan Maghrib Adhan Today, 4 March 2026: Check the Official Iftar Schedule from the Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag)

Muslims in Medan observing Ramadan 1447 H are advised of the official buka puasa time. The Directorate General of Guidance of the Muslim Community (Binmas Islam) at the Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag RI) lists the Maghrib azan for Medan today as 18:42 WIB, marking the time to break the fast. The article also notes the other prayer times and directs readers to official sources for the full Medan schedule.

Obesity Rates Continue to Rise, Public Urged to Exercise Caution in Choosing Processed Foods

Indonesia's national obesity prevalence among 18-year-olds rose from 21.8% in 2018 to 23.4% in 2023. Health officials warn obesity is a chronic disease linked to long-term excess caloric intake from processed and ready-to-eat foods, and call for better consumer education, portion control, and limiting salt, sugar and fat to curb non-communicable diseases. The article also discusses the role of modern food technology and the importance of educating the public to read nutrition information on packaging.

World Today: The Total Lunar Eclipse Lights Up the Australian Sky

Australian observers witnessed a blood moon over Perth and southern Western Australia, with the eclipse lasting about an hour from 7pm local time and scientists saying it signals the end of a run of lunar eclipses as more solar eclipses are expected in coming years. In international news, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel will continue to bombard Iran and will intensify strikes on Hizbullah as the Middle East conflict sharpens. Separately, Afghanistan faces a severe malnutrition crisis, with about 3.7 million children needing treatment this year amid aid cuts and violence on the Pakistan border; in the United States, a father was found guilty on 27 counts for giving his son a rifle linked to a Georgia high school massacre.

Umrah Pilgrims Urged to Postpone Departure Temporarily

Indonesian MPs urged the public to delay Umrah pilgrimage until security in the Middle East improves, warning that independent pilgrims may not be fully registered. They called for closer coordination with transit countries and stronger oversight of rogue operators, while authorities negotiate for travel refunds and possible postponements amid rising regional tensions.

IRGC General Alleged to be Mossad Asset and Linked to Khamenei's Death Reported Arrested

An unconfirmed report from AzerNews claims that Esmail Qaani, the IRGC's Quds Force commander, has been arrested on accusations of spying for Mossad. The report comes as Iran confirms the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei in a US-Israeli strike on 28 February 2026, with Qaani and other senior figures reportedly meeting Khamenei before the attack.

Legislator Praises Riau Police for Busting Sumatra Elephant Poaching Syndicate

Legislator Muhammad Rahul of the Gerindra faction commended the Riau Regional Police for dismantling a Sumatra elephant poaching syndicate near Tesso Nilo, Ukui, Pelalawan. He framed the operation as evidence of serious, professional law enforcement and a tangible commitment to protecting biodiversity and forest ecosystems in Riau, while urging that those involved face full penalties to deter wildlife crime. Fifteen suspects were arrested with three more sought (DPO).

PANRB Ministry Tightens Merit System Through Ministerial Regulation No. 19 of 2025

The Indonesian Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform (PANRB) announced the issuance of PermenPANRB No. 19/2025 to strengthen the merit-based system in ASN management, aligning with the RPJMN 2025–2029 priority on human resources. The regulation introduces an integrated eight-aspect merit framework, a three-dimensional maturity assessment (availability, quality, and utilization), objective merit indexing supported by staff satisfaction and engagement surveys, and stronger integration with talent management to inform appointments, career development, and succession planning.

Mirae Asset Speaks Out After OJK and Bareskrim Raid

Mirae Asset Sekuritas Indonesia (MASI) has spoken about a search conducted by the Financial Services Authority (OJK) in conjunction with the Police's Criminal Investigation Department (Bareskrim). The raid is linked to an ongoing securities market case, with MASI cooperating fully and operations continuing normally. Investigators cited alleged dummy stock trading with potentially large implied gains and a stock freeze affecting billions of shares.

Emergency visa suspension: UK closes doors to students from four countries

The UK government has halted student visas for nationals from Afghanistan, Cameroon, Myanmar and Sudan, with work visas for Afghan skilled workers also suspended. The move, described as an 'emergency visa pause', follows a surge in applications believed to be a pretext for legal entry, and tightens asylum rules that will see refugee status reviewed every 30 months.

KPK Says It Did Not Receive Information About Meeting Between Fadia Arafiq and Central Java Governor Ahmad Lutfhi During Sting Operation

The Indonesian anti-corruption agency (KPK) says there was no information about a meeting between Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq and Central Java Governor Ahmad Lutfhi during a sting operation, with the arrest of Fadia taking place in Semarang rather than Pekalongan. Fadia says the talks with the governor concerned only a permit related to attending the Free Nutritious Meals programme and denies involvement in procurement or any illicit dealings, while planning a pretrial challenge to the case.

Pelni to provide 751,550 tickets and 55 ships for Eid al-Fitr 2026, records peak homecoming traffic

Pelni will offer 751,550 tickets for Eid al-Fitr 2026 across 55 ships, with seating capacity of 56,069 per sailing. Peak outward travel is forecast for 18 March 2026 (H-3) and peak return travel for 2 April 2026 (H+11), with around 641,025 passengers projected—slightly below last year. Makassar, Balikpapan, Batam, Ambon and Bau-Bau are expected to be the busiest origins, Kumai the busiest destination, and five routes are anticipated to carry about 45 percent of Eid traffic.

Surabaya Maghrib Timings Today, 4 March 2026 (14 Ramadan 1447 AH)

Muslims in Surabaya and surrounds mark the 14th day of Ramadan on Wednesday, 4 March 2026. The Maghrib timetable aligns with the Ministry of Religious Affairs’ guidelines, with neighbouring areas like Sidoarjo and Gresik typically within a minute of Surabaya. A linked article provides the full imsakiyah for Ramadan 2026.

Yaqut Claims He Has Not Yet Received a Suspect-Designation Letter, KPK Responds

In a Jakarta court, Yaqut Cholil Qoumas's team argues he has only received a notice of suspect designation rather than the formal letter. The KPK maintains the pretrial matter is an attempt to derail the prosecution, citing prior questioning as a suspect and documented evidence from 2025, and asks the judge to dismiss the pretrial motion and uphold the investigation's legality.

Indonesia Exports Super Premium Rice to Saudi Arabia, Priced at Rp16,000 per Kilogram

Indonesia's state-owned Bulog has exported 2,280 tonnes of super premium rice to Saudi Arabia to supply Indonesian Hajj pilgrims, priced at Rp16,000 per kilogram thanks to government subsidies. The shipment, sourced from the new harvest rather than stock, aims to open Indonesia's entry into the Middle East rice market, with potential demand from Umrah travellers and residents totalling around 2 million people annually. The export is valued at roughly Rp38 billion.

Purifying and Growing Wealth

Islamic teaching frames wealth as something to be purified and grown through zakat and charity, not simply to be hoarded. It cites Qur'anic verses to warn against usury and to affirm that charitable giving multiplies rewards, placing wealth within a moral and spiritual dimension for both this world and the hereafter.

Bali Police: Bloodstain DNA Matches Mother of Ukrainian Kidnap Victim

DNA from bloodstains found at a villa and in a Toyota Avanza used by the attackers matches the mother of Ihor Komarav, a 28-year-old Ukrainian national believed to be the kidnapping victim. Six foreign nationals are being sought, with an Interpol red notice issued as police pursue leads across Indonesia. Four suspects have reportedly fled Bali, while two remain in the country.

Strategic Partnership Drives Responsible AI Adoption in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia's digital economy is projected to reach US$1 trillion by 2030, with AI potentially contributing up to 18% of regional GDP. In response to regulatory developments, Swedish enterprise AI vendor Ebbot and Veda Praxis have formed a strategic alliance to accelerate responsible AI implementation in the region, offering a structured, governance-backed approach aligned with ISO/IEC 42001.

BRIN: MBG boosts GDP by Rp14.5–26 trillion

BRIN's evaluation of the MBG programme estimates a macroeconomic impact with GDP rising by Rp14.5–26 trillion, underpinned by increases in consumption (up to 0.19%) and investment (up to 0.24%). The study, conducted in 2025 across Bangka Belitung and West Java with 855 participants using CGE, SEM, IAD, and IPA methods, finds MBG strengthens domestic demand and real-sector activity. BRIN recommends enhancements including a national output–outcome dashboard with integrated nutrition, food security, distribution, and governance metrics, plus stronger risk-based quality assurance and public engagement to sustain the programme.

Today's Iftar Schedule: 4 March 2026 in Semarang

In Semarang, the Iftar timetable for 4 March 2026 is published as part of Ramadan observances, with Maghrib as the key moment for breaking the fast. The schedule is attributed to Republika’s Imsakiyah and is presented as a credible guide for punctual worship.

KPK Seizes Electronic Evidence and Five Vehicles in Sting Operation Targeting Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq

The KPK has seized electronic evidence and five vehicles in relation to alleged corruption in outsourcing services procurement in Pekalongan Regency, implicating Regent Fadia Arafiq. The agency cited documented cash withdrawals linked to PT Raja Nusantara Berjaya (RNB), a firm owned by her husband and son, and announced the case has moved to investigation. Arafiq was previously arrested in a sting operation and is now facing charges relating to the 2023-2026 period.

Labour Unions Call for Cancellation of Indian Pickup Import, Fearing Mass Redundancies

Labour unions in Jakarta have rejected the government's plan to import 105,000 pickup trucks from India for the Desa/Koperasi Merah Putih cooperatives, urging total cancellation rather than postponement. They warn the move could trigger widespread layoffs and demand a new Labour Law by October 2026, along with reforms such as the removal of certain tax provisions and outsourcing.

Forestry Minister lauds the exposure of elephant-poaching network in Riau

The Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni commended police efforts to uncover an elephant-poaching network and to name 15 suspects, with three others listed as Wanted Persons. He reaffirmed the ministry's commitment, alongside the police, to eradicate crimes against protected wildlife, emphasising firm and consistent law enforcement with regional government support and active public participation. The investigation traced the network to nine locations in Ukui and surrounding areas, with seizures including firearms, ammunition, and weapon accessories, indicating broader illegal wildlife trade.

Bahlil Reveals Japan's Fuel Stock for 254 Days, Indonesia Only 25 Days

Indonesia's energy reserves stand at 25–26 days, far short of Japan's 254 days. The government plans to expand storage to 90 days (three months), with feasibility studies ongoing and construction slated for 2026 on Sumatra, to align with international standards amid volatile global energy dynamics.

Pentagon Names US Soldiers Killed in Iranian Attack

The Pentagon has begun releasing the names of American soldiers killed in the U.S.-Iran confrontation, with four Army Reserve servicemen from Iowa identified among the casualties from a drone strike on a U.S. facility in Kuwait on 1 March 2026. The killings come amid escalating US rhetoric and Iranian retaliatory strikes across the Middle East, with CENTCOM reporting extensive missile and drone attacks.

Sea of mourners as hundreds of Iranian primary school children die in US-Israel attack

Thousands gathered in Minab, Hormozgan Province, to mourn victims after an attack on a girls’ primary school in the southern Iranian city. Mourners carried coffins decorated with photographs of the children and cried as they followed funeral processions to the main site. The assault, which occurred on February 28, has been described as the deadliest round of the US-Israel confrontation with Iran, intensifying calls for de-escalation.

HNW Warns OKI Against Being Drawn into Israel's False-Flag Operations in the Middle East

Indonesian Deputy Speaker of the MPR, Hidayat Nur Wahid (HNW), condemns attacks on Middle Eastern targets that threaten economic and civilian infrastructure and warns against false-flag provocation. He calls on the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OKI) to act decisively, including proposing an extraordinary OKI summit, to halt the conflict and protect Al‑Aqsa and Palestinian independence.

Nintendo Launches Mini Music Player Shaped Like an Old Game Boy

Nintendo has unveiled a mini music player designed after the classic Game Boy to celebrate Pokémon's 30th anniversary. The Game Boy Jukebox plays tracks from Pokémon Red and Pokémon Blue via 45 mini cartridges and lacks a headphone jack, with playback through a built-in speaker; it has launched in the UK and China via lottery, priced at $69.99 (about Rp 1.1 million).

Leading Amid Dynamic Challenges, Farhan Chooses to Strengthen Basic Services in Bandung

In his first year as Bandung's mayor (2025–2030), Muhammad Farhan frames a governance approach focused on strengthening everyday public services, waste management and transparent decision-making. He stresses that residents’ daily experiences shape policy, calls for higher standards for events to deliver measurable economic and environmental benefits, and urges ongoing citizen participation as Bandung aims to be a premier city—high in quality of life, open in governance, and rooted in community values.

Jakarta Composite Index plunges as Fitch negative outlook and global conflicts weigh on sentiment

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 362.70 points (4.57%) to 7,577.06 on 4 March 2026, pressured by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and Fitch's revision of Indonesia's credit outlook to negative. Fitch kept the sovereign rating at BBB (investment grade) but signalled risks to medium-term fiscal consolidation and external resilience, triggering foreign outflows and rupiah weakness amid a global risk-off environment as oil prices rise. Investors rotated into safe-haven assets amid declines across regional markets.

A Ramadan of Joy: PAN Unveils Five Concrete Programs for the People

Indonesian opposition party PAN has announced five national programmes under the banner 'Bantu Rakyat' to support social and economic needs during Ramadan 1447 Hijri. The schemes — PANDAI, PANsar Murah Ramadan, Mudik Gratis Ceria, Tebar Hadiah Ramadan (THR), and a charitable drive for thousands of orphans — were unveiled by PAN leaders in Jakarta. The party says the initiatives align with its directive for closer engagement with the community and aim to deliver tangible benefits during the holy month.

Was Soekarno an Architecture or Civil Engineering Graduate? Here’s the Correct Answer

Soekarno studied civil engineering at Technische Hoogeschool te Bandoeng (TH Bandung), now ITB, and graduated in 1926. Although his practice and heritage show a strong architectural influence, his formal qualification was civil engineering; the article also notes his role in shaping Indonesia’s architectural landscape and his recognition abroad.

Yaqut’s Lawyer Says KPK Is Inconsistent in Suspect Designation

Mellisa Anggraini, representing former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, criticised the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) for inconsistency in the legal bases used to designate her client as a suspect during a praperadilan hearing. She pointed to simultaneous reference to the old and new Penal Codes and to articles that have reportedly been repealed. The pre-trial case tests the lawfulness of the suspect designation, and the next session will proceed as scheduled.

Israel Apparently Spied on Khamenei via CCTV in Tehran Before Launching Attack

Israel's intelligence services are accused of hacking Tehran's traffic CCTV to monitor the movements of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's guards and other senior officials. The data is alleged to have informed a coordinated US-Israeli attack over the weekend, with claims that Khamenei and senior Iranian figures were killed. The Financial Times report says Mossad built a detailed 'life pattern' profile of Iran's leadership and even disrupted mobile networks to blunt warning signals.

Trump: US to Escort Oil Tankers Through the Strait of Hormuz If Necessary

President Donald Trump said the U.S. Navy would escort tanker ships through the Strait of Hormuz if necessary and ordered the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation to provide insurance and political risk guarantees for maritime trade, especially energy passing through the Gulf. The Strait, a critical chokepoint between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, remains a focal point amid escalating tensions after U.S.-Israel actions against Iran and Iran’s subsequent strikes.

Today's Iftar Schedule in Surabaya for 4 March 2026: Ready to Welcome Maghrib

This article presents Surabaya's daily prayer timetable for 14 Ramadhan 1447 AH, with Maghrib at 17:51 WIB marking the iftar time. It notes that the schedule is sourced from Republika's imsakiyah and encourages readers to engage in positive activities, such as reading the Alquran, with access to Republika's Digital Alquran.

Check the Region of Origin, How to Avoid Rust-prone Used Cars

Buyers of second-hand cars should verify the vehicle's region of origin using official documents, as coastal operation and fleet use can raise the risk of rust. Some owners mitigate this with anti-corrosion coatings, but buyers should watch for rust hidden under a clean exterior.

Ministry of Villages ready to help accelerate rural development in West Papua

The Ministry of Villages and the Development of Disadvantaged Regions and Transmigration says it is ready to fast‑track village development in West Papua by optimising a range of programmes, including export villages via BUMDes. It urges the West Papua Provincial Government to map village potentials and appoint a model village for tourism. West Papua will host the Transformasi Ekonomi Kampung Terpadu (TEKAD) in 185 villages across five districts, with capacity-building and infrastructure initiatives outlined by the governor, aligned with the 12 Priority Actions for Building Villages, Building Indonesia.

BKKBN provides family planning services for disaster-affected residents in Pidie Jaya

The Aceh chapter of the National Population and Family Planning Board (BKKBN) has deployed family planning services to communities affected by a hydrometeorological disaster in Gampong Meunasah Mayang, Meurah Dua district, Pidie Jaya. The move aims to ensure couples of reproductive age retain access to reproductive health services in the post-disaster context, with education and outreach on family planning and reproductive health for women in the area.

The Dangers of Measles in Children and Adults: Symptoms, Complications, and Prevention

Measles outbreaks in Indonesia in early 2026 have intensified, with more than 8,224 suspected cases and four deaths reported by week 7 of the year. The disease can cause immune amnesia, leaving patients vulnerable to other infections even after symptoms subside, and there is currently no specific antiviral treatment; prevention through MR/MMR vaccination is emphasised. The MR/MMR vaccines are considered safe by WHO and the Health Ministry, and concerns are raised by low immunisation coverage in 2022 with 469 children presenting measles/rubella symptoms in Central Papua.

How to Install Snapchat on Android and iPhone

Snapchat is a photo- and video-based social media app launched in 2011 by Snap Inc. The piece provides basic instructions for installing Snapchat and references various regulatory actions affecting the service, including Russia blocking Snapchat and Australia’s new rules for users under 16, while also noting Indonesia’s plan to redirect some crude oil imports to the United States, illustrating how technology intersects with policy.

Analyst: Niche markets are the key to Indonesia's rice exports to the Middle East

An economist from CORE argues that Indonesia should target niche markets to strengthen rice exports to the Middle East amid competition from Thailand and Vietnam. He cautions that domestic supply stability and logistics costs must be managed, particularly in the context of regional tensions threatening shipping routes. Bulog has begun exports to Saudi Arabia and plans a distribution hub, signalling a broader push into the Middle East market and beyond.

KPK Reiterates That Yaqut Cholil Qoumas’s Designation as a Suspect Is Valid, Based on More Than 40 Witnesses and More Than 200 Documents

KPK asserts that the designation of former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas as a suspect was made in accordance with legal procedures and based on more than two admissible forms of evidence, including statements from over 40 witnesses and more than 200 documents. The agency disclosed these details during a pre-trial hearing in Jakarta, noting cooperation with BPK and ongoing investigative work, and emphasising that the case remains governed by the 1981 Criminal Procedure Code since the investigation began before the 2026 Penal Code came into force.

Suwung Landfill Reopens Through June, Denpasar City Government Says in Line with Minister's Directive

Denpasar's Suwung final disposal site resumed operations on 2 March 2026 after a temporary closure to enforce a Ministry of Environment directive against open dumping. The extension to dispose of residue until June 2026 was confirmed by the Deputy Mayor, aligning with the minister's instruction, while the city accelerates household composting and the preparation of a Waste-to-Energy plant. A cross-district meeting with the minister and Badung Regency officials is planned to firm up readiness for waste management across Denpasar and nearby areas.

Herbalife Announces Cristiano Ronaldo Invests $7.5 Million in Pro2colm Technology

Herbalife reveals that Cristiano Ronaldo has acquired a 10% stake in its Pro2col Software unit for $7.5 million, alongside ongoing sponsorship and services commitments. The move highlights Ronaldo's commitment to health, nutrition, and data-driven personalised wellness, and marks a milestone for Herbalife's digital Pro2col platform, which aims to integrate products, community, and AI for global customers. The beta rollout is underway in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico, with plans to expand to select EMEA markets in 2026.

KPK arrests Fadia Arafiq at SPKLU despite briefly losing track

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq was arrested at a public electric-vehicle charging station (SPKLU) in Semarang after investigators briefly lost track of her. The operation involved her aides and confidants, and later the KPK raised the case by naming Fadia as the sole suspect in an outsourcing and procurement scheme in Pekalongan Regency for 2023-2026.

Banten Police Prepare Alternative Port If Congestion Occurs on Jalan Lingkar Selatan in Cilegon

Police in Banten will redirect light trucks and vehicles in categories 5 and 6B to Krakatau Bandar Samudera Port if Jalan Lingkar Selatan in Cilegon becomes congested. They have identified three alternative ports for Lebaran traffic and prepared holding bays and buffer zones to smooth operations, including weather-related delays. Preparations are due to be completed before the deployment on 12 March 2026.

IHSG Slips 4.57% as Middle East War and Indonesia Outlook Downgrade Hit the Market

The Jakarta Composite Index fell 4.57% to 7,577.06 as trading closed on Wednesday, 4 March 2026, amid intensifying Middle East tensions and a Fitch Ratings downgrade to Indonesia's outlook. All sectors declined, with materials and transport the hardest hit, while inflation risks and safe-haven demand for gold added to market concerns.

Riau Police Coordinate with Indonesian Embassy over Indonesian Citizen in Critical Condition at Cambodian Hospital

The Riau Police say they are coordinating with the Indonesian Embassy in Cambodia regarding Susi Yanti Br Sinaga, a 23-year-old from Siak, who is in a critical condition at Khmer-Soviet-Friendship Hospital in Phnom Penh. The KBRI has located the victim and reports she is there due to illness, with no indication of violence; family liaison through an accompanying Indonesian national, initials BS, is being maintained. Officials say they will continue coordination with the KBRI and relevant authorities.

Pekalongan Regent Admits Not Understanding Bureaucracy Because of Former Dangdut Singer Background

The KPK disclosed Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq admitted to not understanding procurement rules due to her background as a former dangdut singer. The agency later named her as the sole suspect in a case involving outsourcing services procurement and other procurements within the Pekalongan Regency government for the 2023-2026 fiscal year, following arrests during a Ramadan sting operation. The case highlights ongoing governance and anti-corruption concerns in regional administrations.

North Jakarta City Government seals two padel courts for lack of permits

The North Jakarta City Administration sealed two padel courts in the Ancol and Penjaringan areas due to missing Building Permits (PBG). The seizure is an administrative sanction; operations may resume once the owner secures the PBG, with no deadline specified. The operator stated that other permits like IMB are already held and the permit process is ongoing.

Presidential Secretariat: 2025 school revitalisation surpasses target, reaches 16,167 units

The Indonesian government’s 2025 school revitalisation programme surpassed its target, with 16,167 educational units revitalised from an initial target of 10,440, and significant steps to fund and accelerate expansion in 2026 and beyond. The initiative includes self-managed implementation at each school, job creation potential, and direct funding to schools.

Rupiah Slips 20 Points as Fitch Revises Indonesia's Outlook to Negative

The Indonesian rupiah weakened by 20 points to 16,892 per US dollar on 4 March 2026, pressured by Middle East tensions and Fitch's move to cut Indonesia's outlook to negative. Fitch projects a 2026 fiscal deficit of about 2.9% of GDP amid higher social spending and conservative revenue assumptions, while Bank Indonesia signals continued monitoring and intervention to stabilise the currency.

KPK says Fadia Arafiq was not arrested together with Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi

KPK denied reports that Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq was arrested alongside Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi; the agency said she was arrested in Semarang with trusted aides, and 11 others from Pekalongan were detained later. Fadia, who is a suspect in a procurement-related corruption case, claimed she was with the governor at the time, while Luthfi denied being with her.

Inspects KNMP Pujiharjo, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Minister Calls for Upgrades

The Indonesian Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, visited KNMP Pujiharjo in Malang Regency to assess facilities and push for improvements. The visit is part of a wider review of Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih projects nationwide, with officials planning upgrades such as clean water supply and dredging to ensure the sites operate to standard.

Mirae Asset Sekuritas Responds to OJK Raid Over Alleged Stock Manipulation

Mirae Asset Sekuritas Indonesia has commented on an OJK raid of its offices as part of an ongoing capital markets investigation. OJK alleges manipulation of material information, improper reporting of fixed allotment affiliates in an IPO, and related-party transactions, with 25 witnesses questioned in the case.

KPPG Palembang Evaluates SPPG Compliance in Securing SLHS Certification

Palembang's nutrition service office is auditing SPPG compliance in obtaining the Sertifikat Laik Higiene Sanitasi (SLHS) to ensure that food hygiene standards are met. If the deadline is missed, KPPG may temporarily halt operations; as of now, 400 of 708 SPPG in South Sumatra hold SLHS, with 308 still in progress.

Amran Says Government Is Preparing Large-Scale SPHP Rice Stock, What's Going On?

Minister of Agriculture Amran Sulaiman, who heads the National Food Agency (Bapanas), said the government will intensify the Food Supply and Price Stabilisation Programme (SPHP) during Ramadan to protect household purchasing power. He noted overall stocks of strategic commodities are adequate and prices for some items, such as chilli, have fallen, though three commodities remain a concern for inflation. He stressed keeping prices below the Highest Retail Price (HET) and highlighted cross-ministry coordination to curb seasonal price rises, with government aid ready for distribution.

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah: 7,782 Umrah Pilgrims Have Returned Amid Middle East Tensions

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah says 7,782 Umrah pilgrims have returned to Indonesia amid the Middle East conflict, with more awaiting flight confirmations. It has urged would-be pilgrims to delay departures for safety and outlined contingency measures, including extra Garuda Indonesia aircraft and potential flight-route adjustments, while accelerating preparations for Hajj 2026.

Sukabumi City Hit by Storm, 21 Locations Affected

Extreme weather struck Sukabumi City in West Java on Wednesday afternoon, causing 21 locations to be affected by heavy rain and strong winds. The BPBD reported seven trees felled and 14 roofs damaged, with figures provisional as field assessments continue. Authorities deployed personnel and equipment to manage the incidents and monitor the situation.

Video: THR and BHR Disbursed, Workers - Ojol Ready to Boost Economy Ahead of Eid al-Fitr

The Indonesian government has announced THR and BHR policies for Eid al-Fitr 1447 H, including Rp55 trillion for ASN, the TNI/Polri, and pensioners; private-sector THR must be paid in full at least seven days before Eid, and BHR will be paid to around 850,000 Ojol partners. Analysts discuss the potential macroeconomic impact of these measures in CNBC Indonesia's Closing Bell.

Commitment to Realising Decarbonisation Towards Net Zero Emissions Through Sustainable Business Practices

PT SUCOFINDO (PERSERO) reinforces its role in supporting Indonesia's decarbonisation agenda and the transition to Net Zero Emissions through sustainable, TIC-enabled business practices. The company was honoured with the Environmental and Industrial Compliance Excellence Award 2026, recognising its environmental governance work and community-based sustainability projects, while planning further green and ESG-driven services to support Indonesia’s NZE targets.

Ahead of Eid al-Fitr, Bahlil Confirms Subsidised Fuel Prices Will Not Rise Due to War

Indonesia’s Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has assured that subsidised BBM prices will not rise until Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah / 2026 CE, despite the Iran–US–Israel conflict. He said non-subsidised BBM will follow market mechanisms under 2022 ministerial regulation, and he confirmed adequate fuel stocks ahead of the holiday. The report notes that the Middle East conflict has disrupted shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, which handles around 20% of global oil supply.

Chancellor Merz: Trump vows not to pull US troops from Germany

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz says US President Donald Trump has assured him that the United States will maintain its military presence in Germany, after a White House meeting on 3 March. Merz described the assurance as welcome and said he does not expect to hear anything beyond Trump’s guarantees. Last year, media reports indicated that Trump was considering moving around 35,000 US troops from Germany to Eastern Europe amid frustration with European allies over the war in Ukraine.

Kung Fu Meets Spring -- Unitree Spring Festival Gala Robots Present "Cyber Real Kung Fu" in the Year of the Horse

Unitree showcased its humanoid robots delivering multiple world-first motion feats, from continuous freestyle parkour vaults to high-altitude aerial flips, enabled by a high-concurrency cluster control system and an AI fusion localization algorithm. The show culminated in what the firm calls the world's first fully autonomous humanoid robot cluster martial-arts performance, with real-time synchronization across dozens of units, including appearances by H2 in both main and Yiwu sub-venues. The company also notes strong growth, claiming the top global shipment ranking in 2025 and signalling ongoing leadership in embodied intelligence.

Deputy Minister of Manpower Urges Halt to Import of 105,000 India-made Pickups: Could Trigger Mass Layoffs

The Indonesian Deputy Minister of Manpower has called to suspend a plan to import 105,000 India-made pickups for the Koperasi Desa/Kelurahan Merah Putih (KDKMP) Cooperatives, amid fears the imports could cause mass layoffs. Labor groups and the government clashed publicly, with the union vowing to monitor the plan as shipments from Mahindra & Mahindra and Tata Motors were discussed for phased delivery.

PRR Task Force Urges Accelerated Occupancy of Huntara as Tent Refugees Become Priority Ahead of Eid al-Fitr

The Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Acceleration Task Force (Satgas PRR), led by Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian, is pressing to complete huntara occupancy before Idul Fitri. By early March 2026, thousands of huntara units were built across Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra, with occupancy progressing but several units still unoccupied, as authorities intensify data verification and utility installations to help refugees leave tents ahead of Eid al-Fitr.

5,606 Huntara Units Completed but Uninhabited, PRR Task Force Targets Completion Within Two Weeks

Five thousand six hundred and six Huntara temporary housing units have been completed but remain uninhabited. The PRR Task Force aims to complete occupancy within two weeks, underscoring ongoing government housing initiatives and the need to address logistical challenges. The piece also includes explainer and public-data prompts to enhance transparency.

17 Police Officers Questioned in Connection with Drug Case Involving Former Bima City Police Chief

NTB regional police have summoned and questioned 17 officers from Bima City, Bima Regency and Dompu as part of an ongoing narcotics case involving former senior officers. Examinations were conducted by the Ditresnarkoba of Polda NTB at the Mataram headquarters, with authorities offering limited detail on findings.

Labuan Bajo Entrepreneurs Suspected of Dishonest Tax Payments

Regent Edi Endi warned that some business operators are underreporting revenue and resisting data checks by the Manggarai Barat Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda). He flagged partial reporting and refusals to disclose transaction data; coercive enforcement could be used if persuasion fails. The push to boost local own-source revenue (PAD) comes amid reduced central transfers, with plans for digital tools and cross-sector collaboration in the tourism industry.

Not Via the Strait of Hormuz, Indonesia's Rice Export Route to Saudi Arabia

Indonesia has assured that rice shipments for hajj pilgrims to Saudi Arabia will bypass the Strait of Hormuz. The cargo will travel via the Indian Ocean and Bab el-Mandeb to Jeddah, with Bulog and the government coordinating to maintain schedule amid regional tensions. Officials say delivery timing may be affected by route changes, but aim to depart around 7 March.

OJK raids securities firm, suspected of involvement in a capital markets case

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has raided a securities company believed to be involved in capital market offences, as part of an expanded investigation into stock trading and initial public offerings (IPOs). Investigators have uncovered alleged misreporting of IPO funds, undisclosed affiliates, and a network of dummy transactions that allegedly spurred a sharp share price rise for PT BEBS. Forty-five witnesses have been questioned so far, with OJK coordinating with the courts and police to press the case forward.

The Tender-Prohibition Clause That Snared Pekalongan Regent as a Suspect

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq as a suspect for involvement in procurement tenders in Pekalongan Regency. The probe centres on Article 12(i) and 12(B) of the Corruption Eradication Law, which cover conflicts of interest and abuse of power in procurement. The KPK alleges that Arafiq and her circle facilitated contracting to a company linked to her family, with funds allegedly diverted to relatives.

"Debt Collector" robs motorcycle and assaults rider on Daan Mogot

A group posing as debt collectors assaulted a motorcyclist and seized his bike in Jalan Daan Mogot, Kalideres, West Jakarta. Police are investigating and promise intensified matel patrols amid concerns about street gangs known as matel operating in the area.

Sleman Regency Loses Thousands of Hectares of Agricultural Land Due to Land-Use Conversions

Sleman Regency's Department of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries reports a loss of 2,222 hectares of agricultural land over the last seven years, with farmland remaining at 15,915 hectares in 2025, down from 18,137 hectares in 2018. The decline is attributed to widespread land-use conversions for public facilities, toll roads, and housing, amid ongoing regulatory gaps and limited enforcement of existing protections under LP2B.

IHSG declines on the combination of geopolitical tensions and revised credit outlook

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell by 4.57% to 7,577.06 points, dragged by a confluence of Middle East geopolitical tensions and Fitch Ratings' decision to cut Indonesia's credit outlook to negative. The move worsened risk-off sentiment, with foreign outflows and higher funding costs adding to declines in the big-cap banking sector and wider market.

Fadli Welcomes Plans for Cultural Collaboration with Kazakhstan

Indonesian Culture Minister Fadli Zon welcomed plans for cultural collaboration with Kazakhstan during a meeting with Indonesia's Ambassador to Kazakhstan (also accredited to Tajikistan), Mochamad Fadjroel Rachman. The discussions covered a cultural forum during President Tokayev's visit, strengthening pencak silat traditions, film and performances, museum cooperation, and co-operation mechanisms in culture, including potential film co-productions and Kazakh participation in JAFF Market and Jogja-NETPAC Asian Film Festival.

Reacting to Trump's Outrage, Spain's PM: No to War

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez rejects Donald Trump's threats to sever trade ties and insists Madrid will refuse to use its bases to attack Iran. He frames Spain's position as four words—'No to the war'—and says many governments and millions of people share a preference for avoiding further war or uncertainty.

Bahlil Explains Indonesia's Fuel Reserves Are Sufficient for 20 Days

Indonesia's Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says the country's fuel reserves are sufficient for about 20 days following the temporary closure of the Hormuz Strait, and outlines plans to increase storage capacity to three months. Officials emphasise that the stock meets national standards and is not an emergency, while warning of potential price adjustments amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Indonesia's Moderately Rational Voice Amid the US–Israel–Iran Conflict

Indonesia confronts a dilemma between moral condemnation of aggression and the pragmatism of realpolitik as tensions between the US, Israel and Iran rise. Grounded in the anti-colonial ethos of the 1945 Constitution, Jakarta argues for principled stances while weighing economic stability, energy security and regional interests. The article examines whether Indonesia's long-standing anti-imperial stance can endure when the situation grows complex and risky.

Experts urge the Attorney General’s Office to trace cross-border assets to prevent money laundering

Asset-recovery expert Chuck Suryosumpeno has urged the Attorney General’s Office to start asset tracing in the case involving former Education and Culture Minister Nadiem Makarim. He warns that minister-level corruption usually entails cross-border money laundering and calls for forensic auditing and deep financial data analysis; he also notes the importance of early tracing to recover state losses. The piece also mentions a planned parliamentary hearing and ongoing asset investigations linked to other figures such as Ridwan Kamil and Nurhadi Abdurachman.

Cirebon Regency Department of Transportation Prepares Facilities to Support Mudik Traffic

The Cirebon Regency Department of Transportation has prepared traffic-management facilities for Eid al-Fitr 2026 mudik, including signs, barriers, cones, and street-lighting vehicles. It plans 10 security posts on main routes with 62 personnel across two shifts; national projections show about 143.91 million travellers, with the bulk heading to Central Java, East Java and West Java.

Fabio Lefundes Mesmerises the JIS Atmosphere and Delivers a Message to The Jakmania

Borneo FC's Brazilian head coach Fabio Lefundes praised the atmosphere and referee integrity at Jakarta International Stadium after a 2-2 draw with Persija Jakarta, urging Jakmania to channel their energy positively. He highlighted the referee Agung Setiyawan's impartiality under fan pressure and noted the motivational impact of the home crowd on his Pesut Etam squad.

Amid the stigma of brawls, Manggarai Gen Z youths build a TPA and become active in the mosque

Gen Z youths in Manggarai, Jakarta, counter a long-standing stigma of street brawls by dedicating themselves to their mosque and running an educational space for local children. Through Al-Falaah Mosque's IRMA group, around 30 youths organise religious observances and social welfare activities, including Ramadan programmes and distributing iftar provisions, despite living near a history of clashes by the Manggarai tunnel. The piece highlights youth-led resilience and social cohesion in a volatile urban area.

Commission VI commends government steps to tackle disruptions to oil and gas supply

The Indonesian Parliament's Commission VI member, Firnando Ganinduto, welcomed swift government actions to avert potential disruptions to the national oil and gas supply amid tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. He urged rapid, strategic responses, including diversifying imports away from the Middle East to the United States, and strengthening domestic energy security and ongoing energy diversification.

DPR's Baleg to Invite YLBHI and JALA PRT to Discuss the PPRT Bill Tomorrow

The Legislation Board (Baleg) of the Indonesian House of Representatives will continue drafting the PPRT Bill, incorporating public input and planning a hearing with organisations representing domestic workers. Deputy chair Ahmad Doli Kurnia said the aim is to ensure the bill reflects all stakeholders' and the public's interests, with a further hearing scheduled for 5 March.

Constitutional Court summons mobile operators over controversy surrounding lapsed internet data quotas

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has summoned several mobile operators as respondents in cases challenging Article 71(2) of the Omnibus Law on Job Creation over a dispute about lapsed internet quotas. The Court will also hear PLN and ATSI, and is considering testimony on tariffs and data rollover; the government says the issue concerns service provision rather than a legal norm. The petitions seek to ensure that data quotas paid for by consumers are not unilaterally erased, and, if a time limit is imposed, that a fair, transparent and proportionate mechanism is required.

Government Targets Export of 50,000 Tonnes of Rice to Saudi Arabia

Indonesia's Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has targeted 20,000–50,000 tonnes of rice exports to Saudi Arabia in 2026, following a 2,280-tonne shipment for Indonesian Hajj pilgrims. The government sees Bulog's rice as a potential export commodity, and is also looking at Malaysia, the Philippines, and Papua New Guinea, as CBP stocks stand at 3.7 million tonnes and are set to rise to 5 million by April, despite warehouse capacity of 3 million tonnes.

As Long as It Is Factual, BGN Will Not Report Uploads to the Police

BGN officials stated that uploads of MBG menus, if factual, will not be reported to the police under the Information and Electronic Transactions Law; they urged the public to provide precise location details when posting. With over 24,000 SPPG units and only 70 inspectors, the agency called for public oversight while explaining MBG funding and the consequences for non-compliant kitchens.

US and Israel Strike Iran; Indonesian Citizens and Students in Turkey Urged to Exercise Caution

The United States and Israel attacked Iran, prompting Gulf states to urge diplomacy to ease tensions in the Middle East. Indonesian nationals in Turkey, including students, have been advised by the Indonesian Embassy in Ankara to stay vigilant while authorities coordinate support and information, with evacuation plans discussed for some in Tehran.

Breakdown of Rp33 Billion in Unclaimed Royalties at LMKN: Who Are the Owners?

LMKN publicly disclosed Rp33,021,150,878 in unclaimed royalties, distributed across five categories tied to music use in Indonesia. The announcement follows governance concerns and a report from songwriters to KPK, with a two‑year claim window and a push for rights‑holders to register with LMK.

Cepu Block Successfully Boosts Oil Production to 12,300 Barrels per Day

A well intervention on Banyu Urip A07 at the Cepu Block, using Water Shut-Off techniques, has raised oil production from around 4,800 barrels per day to about 12,300 barrels per day, well above the initial target. The operation, conducted without a rig and employing bridge plugs, re-perforation and acidising, highlights how optimising existing wells can enhance Indonesia’s energy supply and security.

Ideal Times for Prayers During Ramadan

Ramadan is a blessed month in which fasting heightens receptivity to prayer. The piece identifies three main moments when supplications are most likely to be accepted, including while fasting and through the virtue emphasised in hadith about a just ruler, a fasting person, and the oppressed; Imam Nawawi also notes the desirability of increasing dua for both worldly and Hereafter affairs.

First day of Motis 2026 registrations in Bekasi crowds the station.

Registration for Motis 2026 opened on 1 March 2026 and quickly filled its initial quota, drawing crowds to Bekasi Station. The programme offers free motorbike shipping and passenger transport, with a daily limit of 850 motorbikes and total quotas of 19,900 motorbikes and about 21,000 passengers for the year. The online registration system struggled due to high demand while some registrants chose the offline route, requiring a queue number.

KSP: Free Nutritious Meals Programme Reaches 61 Million Recipients, Supported by 24,443 SPPG

Presidential Chief of Staff Muhammad Qodari announced the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme has now reached about 61.2 million beneficiaries, spanning school children, preschoolers, pregnant women, and nursing mothers. The operation is supported by thousands of service units and scholars, with plans to expand coverage and ensure quality governance, also engaging tens of thousands of MSMEs and suppliers to stimulate rural economies.

Conflict with Israel Intensifies as More Than 58,000 Lebanese Flee Across the Country

More than 58,000 people have fled internally across Lebanon as fighting with Israel escalates, with 12,539 displaced families. Since Monday, at least 40 people have been killed and 246 injured amid the rising cross-border violence, triggering a broader displacement and mounting pressure on emergency services.

Eiger Launches Ramadan Bazaar Across Multiple Cities, Discounts Up To 50%, Supporting Homecoming Travel

EIGER is launching its Ramadan Bazaar across several Indonesian cities, offering up to 50% off on selected outdoor and lifestyle products, with additional Buy 1 (30% off) and Buy 2 (50% off) promos. The event runs during Ramadan in multiple venues, with a quote from Riadi Ariaji Suwarno, Managing Director of PT Eigerindo MPI, emphasising relevance to Ramadan needs and value for customers.

OJK: Mirae Asset Pumped BEBS Shares to a Profit of IDR 14.5 Trillion

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) says Mirae Asset Sekuritas profited up to IDR 14.5 trillion through manipulation of BEBS shares, involving IPO-related fakery and a network of fictitious trades. The scheme, executed by six operators under two suspects, led to freezes on the proceeds. The case highlights ongoing concerns about misinformation, affiliate manipulation, and insider trading in Indonesian markets.

Indonesian VP Gibran explores IoT education at Bandung junior high

During a visit to Santo Yusup School in Bandung, Vice President Gibran observed IoT-based learning for grades 7–9, spoke with students about how tech enhances their studies, and toured the school’s esports program. Teachers described a two-year IoT curriculum culminating in group projects, with student innovations such as sensor-powered trash bins, voice-command lights and prototypes of automated railway crossing bars. The visit supports Bandung’s smart-city ambitions and the mayor’s push to broaden science and technology education for younger pupils, with Gibran planning further tours of schools and pesantren in Bandung District.

Baby elephant dies after being snared as TNTN tightens patrols in forest areas

After the death of a baby elephant caused by a snare inside the conservation area, the Tesso Nilo National Park Authority tightens patrols and seeks cross-stakeholder collaboration to eradicate wildlife snares. Officials emphasise a strict prohibition and harsh penalties for snare makers, applicable across all forest types, noting that snares threaten wildlife, particularly elephants.

YIA Kulon Progo Airport ready to welcome Lebaran 2026 homecoming traffic

Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) in Kulon Progo district says it is fully prepared to manage Lebaran 2026 homecoming traffic under the theme Mudik Aman, Keluarga Bahagia. General Manager Ruly Artha announced 669 combined personnel and 24-hour operations from 13 to 30 March 2026, with a focus on flexible extra flights while maintaining service standards. The airport emphasises disaster-resilient infrastructure, real-time passenger management, inclusive facilities, health screening, and enhanced Ramadan ambience.

Alleged Stock Price Manipulation: OJK Raids Securities Firm Office in SCBD

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) raided the PT MASI office in the Sudirman Central Business District as part of an investigation into alleged capital-market crimes, including insider trading and IPO manipulation. The probe concerns alleged non-disclosure by an affiliate recipient of fixed allotments in an IPO and misreporting of IPO funds, as well as suspected fictitious transactions involving related parties. OJK has examined 25 witnesses and is cooperating with the judiciary and police to safeguard market integrity.

Rumiatun's Dedication as a BRILink Agent in Grobogan, Swiftly Serving Villagers on the Frontline

Rumiatun’s decision to become a BRILink Agent has brought essential banking services to Prigi village, reducing the need for residents to travel to bank branches. The kiosk now handles withdrawals, transfers and BPNT disbursements, while also serving as a channel for financial education, helping to drive financial inclusion and local economic activity. BRILink Agents are expanding nationwide as part of BRI's drive to broaden access to finance.

West Java Provincial Government's Free Mudik Quota Still 660 Remaining

West Java's 2026 free Mudik quota stands at 660 remaining from 3,040; registration is via the Sapawarga app from 11 February to 12 March 2026. Only three routes still have tickets, with departure dates set for 13–15 March 2026, as the programme aims to help residents travel home and ease congestion.

Government examines investment opportunities amid US-Israel and Iran conflict

The Indonesian government says it is actively evaluating new investment opportunities amid escalating tensions between the US-Israel bloc and Iran, arguing that global upheavals can create both risks and opportunities for Indonesia. Ministers are coordinating across agencies to sustain economic growth, uphold fiscal discipline, and keep strategic projects on track, while engaging stakeholders to assess short- and medium-term impacts.

Underbone Motorcycle Price Update March 2026, Starting at Rp14 Million

By March 2026, underbone motorcycle prices in Indonesia were largely stable, with Yamaha the sole major exception after a January price adjustment that widened the gaps among its models. Other brands including Honda, Suzuki and TVS kept prices unchanged from late 2025, with TVS Neo XR remaining the cheapest at Rp 14,700,000 OTR Jakarta. The notable hikes included Vega Force rising to Rp 19,800,000 and Jupiter Z1 to Rp 21,880,000, reflecting a mixed market for affordable daily transport.

Indonesian patient receives AI-based pancreatic cancer treatment in China

An Indonesian patient, Chen, suffering from recurrent pancreatic disease, received AI-assisted treatment in Shanghai, marking a hopeful turn after years of suffering. The treatment includes a novel AI model for non-contrast CT-based pancreatic cancer risk stratification developed by Changhai Hospital, aiding early intervention and standardised care; following extensive surgery, pathology confirmed successful removal of the malignant tumour, and the patient is reported stable as of early March.

Request for Coral Rubble Ends in Soil, Pasar Rebo Residents' Road Access Becomes Slippery

A road in Gedong, Pasar Rebo, East Jakarta, was blocked by soil mistaken for coral rubble and became slippery after rain. The soil was reportedly requested by residents but miscommunication with PAM Jaya led to a larger-than-expected mound, now being cleared by PPSU, Bina Marga, and PAM Jaya staff, and shared on social media.

US Banks Issue Emergency Warning Over Iranian Retaliation Attacks

The US financial services industry is tightening monitoring and warning of the risk of large-scale cyberattacks amid geopolitical escalation in the Middle East, including potential Iranian cyber threats to Western banks. Industry groups warn cyber risk could rise and highlight the importance of operational resilience for US markets.

Padel Boss Tries to Bargain Over Rules, Pramono: No Negotiation

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung said a padel court operator in a residential area attempted to push back the operating hours beyond 8pm WIB, a limit that applies to all residential padel courts with or without a PBG. He insisted the maximum is 20:00 WIB and emphasised that all padel facilities must be licensed; if a court lacks a PBG, action will be taken. The administration also ruled out new residential-zone padel development, allowing future courts only in commercial zones with early technical clearance from the Youth and Sports Department.

Strengthening Halal Service Integrity, BPJPH–KPK Launch Halal Certification Safeguard Dashboard

BPJPH, in collaboration with the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), launched the Halal Certification Guard System Dashboard in Jakarta on 4 March 2026, aiming to strengthen integrity, transparency and monitoring of halal certification services. The event included anti-corruption outreach, emphasising that integrity is essential to the halal regime and its legal basis under Law No. 33 of 2014 on Halal Product Guarantees.

Prabowo summons Bahlil and Zulhas to the Palace

President Prabowo Subianto summoned Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan and Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia to the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on 4 March 2026. They discussed Eid al-Fitr preparations, including food availability, affordable prices, and energy readiness, with ministers tasked to monitor regional conditions and market operations. Other senior officials attended to brief on Nuzul al-Quran preparations.

Kondisi JPO Sarinah Usai Direvitalisasi, Pelican Crossing Tetap Beroperasi

The Sarinah pedestrian overpass in Central Jakarta has resumed operation following revitalisation, with lifts available for access from Sarinah Mall and the Bawaslu building, while the nearby Transjakarta MH Thamrin stop offers lifts and escalator stairs. The crossing has a Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr decor, and a pelican crossing in the area continues to operate to provide an alternative for pedestrians, with the governor emphasising accessibility for people with disabilities.

Measles Outbreak Expands in Bima City, 336 Suspected Cases Detected

A measles outbreak is spreading in Bima City, NTB, with 336 suspected cases identified between November 2025 and March 2026. Health officials say the rise is significant and attribute it to low vaccination coverage and malnutrition as contributing factors; authorities plan expanded supplementary immunisation activities (SIA) in line with WHO guidance.

Elnusa Ensures Energy Supplies Continue to Flow in Aceh

PT Elnusa Tbk, via its subsidiary Elnusa Petrofin (EPN), again joins Pertamina’s Ramadan–Idul Fitri Task Force (Satgas RAFI) 2026 to ensure safe, timely and reliable distribution of BBM and Avtur, including in Aceh’s challenging geography. The operation emphasises HSSE and real-time monitoring, with thousands of Tank Truck Crews (AMT) on duty, exemplified by Yuswadi, as energy supports Ramadan and disaster response while maintaining daily life across communities.

PKS Central Advisory Council Urges Prabowo to Express Condolences to Iran

The PKS Central Advisory Board has urged President Prabowo Subianto to express condolences for the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Hosseini Khamenei, citing long-standing Jakarta-Tehran ties and Indonesia's independent and active foreign policy. It notes that other regional Muslim states have already issued official condolences amid regional tensions following US-Israel strikes.

Ramadan Safari: Sorong Mayor and Deputy Mayor Hand Over Aid to Nurul Hikmah Mosque

During the Ramadan Safari, Sorong City Government led by Mayor Septinus Lobat and Deputy Mayor Anshar Karim visited Nurul Hikmah Mosque in Kampung Salak, Sorong, Southwest Papua. The event included a cash donation of Rp10,000,000 and 300 kg of rice to support religious activities and assist worshippers during Ramadan, and was welcomed by the local community. The visit emphasised the government’s commitment to engaging with residents and strengthening social ties during the holy month.

Honda's Focus for 2026: Getting Closer to Customers

Honda Prospect Motor (HPM) plans for 2026 to intensify efforts to engage with its loyal customers across Indonesia, prioritising customer satisfaction and aftersales support over dealer count. The company says its current nationwide coverage sits at 93% and aims to reach 100% by expanding facilities in regions including North Kalimantan, Bali, South Sumatra, West Java, and West Papua.

X suspends monetisation of AI-generated armed-conflict videos without a label

X has announced a policy to suspend earnings for creators who upload AI-generated armed-conflict videos without indicating AI authorship. First-time violators face 90 days from monetisation, with repeat offenders permanently removed from X's revenue-sharing programme; a broader AI-labelling feature is also being piloted.

Commitment to Building West Sumatra: Andre Rosiade Distributes 4,000 Sembako Packages in Agam

Andre Rosiade, Deputy Speaker of the DPR’s Commission VI from the Gerindra Party, distributed 4,000 Sembako packages to residents across Agam Regency, West Sumatra. The event included a dialogue on development issues, with Rosiade pledging to coordinate with central ministries to accelerate road and bridge projects and to boost telecommunications connectivity, including a new tower at Kamang Mudiak. He framed the action as part of Gerindra’s mandate to prioritise the people.

Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq Unaware She Has Committed Corruption, Claims to Be a Dangdut Singer

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq as a suspect in a Rp46 billion procurement and outsourcing services case in her region. Investigators allege money flowed to her husband and child through family-owned firms; Arafiq has claimed she is merely ceremonial and unaware of governance rules, a claim rejected by the KPK. She remains detained until 23 March 2026.

Arab Royals Descend to Mingle, Calming Citizens Amid War

Two Arab rulers, including UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Dubai's Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, visited Dubai Mall amid regional tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel. Their public engagement, captured and widely shared, was seen as a message of calm and resilience as UAE air defence intercepts drones and missiles from Iran; Yemen Online described it as unprecedented for a head of state to appear publicly in such circumstances.

Tangible Ramadan Action: DRW Skincare Distributes 50,000 Sembako Packages to Various Regions

DRW Skincare has announced it will distribute 50,000 free sembako packages across Indonesia during Ramadan 2026, in partnership with influencer campaigns. The programme is aligned with Kampung Ramadhan Wedomartani in Sleman and includes collaboration with local communities and government; it also features health and educational activities.

Minister for Basic and Secondary Education Says MBG Is Part of Students’ Character Education

Indonesia’s Ministry for Basic and Secondary Education says the Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG) is an integral part of strengthening students’ character education through the 7 Habits of Great Indonesian Children (KAIH). The programme has reached about 49.6 million students (93%) across 288,845 schools, with education modules and implementation guidelines deployed nationwide; the 2026 education budget is expected to exceed Rp100 trillion to revitalise around 70,000 schools and to boost digital learning via the Interactive Flat Panel (IFP).

Caught in an arrest operation, Fadia Arafiq claims she did not know the rules because of her background as a former dangdut singer

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq told investigators that she did not understand procurement rules because of her past as a dangdut singer. KPK argues this contradicts her two-term tenure as regent and a previous stint as vice-regent, and that she delegated technical bureaucratic work to the Regional Secretary while performing ceremonial duties. The agency has also announced arrests linked to outsourcing and other procurement in Pekalongan Regency for the 2023-2026 period.

Bahlil on National Fuel Stock Lasting Only 20 Days: Storage Capacity Isn't Enough

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says Indonesia's national BBM stock could last only 20 days, aligning with domestic storage capacity of around 21–25 days. He notes Pertamina's stock at 22–23 days and says the President has ordered a national BBM storage refinery to boost energy resilience, potentially up to three months.

IHSG closes down 4.57%, back to the 7,500 level

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell 4.57% to 7,557.06, with 767 stocks advancing, 61 declining and 130 unmoved. Turnover reached Rp 29.59 trillion as the market cap slid to Rp 13,522 trillion. Fitch Ratings' revision of Indonesia's outlook to negative added to the mood, while oil prices climbed on Middle East tensions.

Rupiah weakens on supply-risk concerns amid Middle East conflict

Indonesia's rupiah closed at Rp16,892 per US dollar, down 0.12% from the previous session, as markets priced in supply risks amid the Middle East tensions following strikes on Iran-linked facilities. Fitch Ratings revised Indonesia's outlook to negative, while the long-term foreign currency IDR remains at BBB, with Bank Indonesia signalling ongoing vigilance and intervention to protect the rupiah. The Jakarta Interbank Spot Dollar Rate (JISDOR) also weakened to Rp16,911 per US dollar.

OJK names two suspects in capital market case, transactions worth Rp 14.5 trillion

The Indonesian Financial Services Authority (OJK) has named two suspects in a capital market case involving around Rp 14.5 trillion in traded value. Investigations, including searches, were conducted, with the probe covering 2021–2023; the dossiers have been forwarded to prosecutors and awaiting P21 completion. The authorities have not disclosed the sectors or underlying assets implicated.

PLN Secures 84 Million Tonnes of Coal Supply, Denies Threat of Power Outages

PLN says it has secured 84 million tonnes of coal from eight major suppliers, enough to cover demand for PLN and independent power producers (IPPs) through to August 2026. The move is intended to counter concerns that RKAB adjustments and production cuts could threaten national electricity supply.

Survey: 70 per cent of ASEAN firms ready to expand, but worried about protectionism

ASEAN businesses are upbeat about expanding in the coming years, even as protectionism and supply-chain disruptions loom. About 70 per cent of respondents expect to expand in one to two years, and 48 per cent foresee higher operating profits in 2025 compared with 2024. The survey also highlights concerns over rising protectionism and underutilised FTAs, underscoring the urgency for regulatory simplification and more targeted support to maintain regional resilience.

Fitch Ratings Downgrades Indonesia's Debt Outlook to Negative

Fitch revised Indonesia's debt outlook from stable to negative on 4 March 2026 while keeping the BBB rating. It warns that policy uncertainty and the growing centralisation of policymaking could undermine medium-term fiscal prospects, erode investor sentiment, and pressure external reserves; the agency projects a 2.9% budget deficit and 13.3% of GDP revenue for 2026-27, notes funding needs for social programmes like MBG, and flags the Danantara fund's planned US$26 billion downstream investments as potential contingent liabilities.

Three-day state funeral for Khamenei to be held

Iran will stage a three-day state funeral for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who died after coordinated strikes by the United States and Israel. The ceremonies begin on Wednesday night, with final burial planned for Mashhad. The public will be allowed to pay respects at Tehran's Imam Khomeini Grand Mosque as the nation observes 40 days of mourning.

West Bandung primary school pupil dies; turns out he was killed by his stepbrother

Police arrested the suspect, the victim's stepbrother, within 24 hours after AS, a 12-year-old primary school pupil, was found dead at his home in Cipatat, West Bandung. The motive is under investigation as officers say the suspect fled to Cianjur and took the victim's mobile phone.

Zulhas comments on calls for Indonesia to withdraw from the Board of Peace

Zulkifli Hasan says President Prabowo has signalled that withdrawal from the Board of Peace remains possible at any time, but PAN has not disclosed a position on calls to quit BoP. The debate follows a dinner-discussion with former leaders and comes as MUI urges Indonesia to withdraw, arguing BoP does not advance a just peace in Palestine.

Drawing on Japan, Bahlil Set to Expand Indonesia's Fuel Storage Capacity from 25 to 90 Days

Indonesia's energy minister Bahlil Lahadalia announced plans to raise the country's fuel stockpile storage capacity from about 25–26 days to 90 days, aligning with international standards. The plan follows a comparison with Japan, which maintains 254 days of fuel, and includes a feasibility study with construction slated for 2026 in Sumatra. Current stocks of crude oil, BBM, and LPG are reported to be above the national minimum resilience standard of 23 days.

Ramadan Seminar at Istiqlal Mosque: Suhoor as an Endeavour for Optimal Worship

At a Ramadan seminar hosted at Jakarta's Istiqlal Mosque, nutrition and faith intersect as doctors and public figures urge proper sahur to sustain energy throughout the fast. The event promotes Energen as a practical suhoor aid, drawing more than 12,000 attendees; it also highlights wider Ramadan initiatives at the mosque, including free iftar meals and future developments.

Amran Points the Finger at the Person Behind Rising Staples Prices, Delivers Stern Warning

Amran Sulaiman, head of the National Food Agency (Bapanas) and Minister of Agriculture, says price increases for essential goods ahead of Ramadan are driven more by distribution problems than by supply. He cites a 30% rise in the midstream chain and vows firm action, including licence revocation, to curb profiteering ahead of National Religious Holidays (HBKN).

Having a Building Permit Is Not Immunity, Pramono Warns of Strict Action Against Rogue Padel Courts

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says possessing a Building Permit (PBG) does not exempt padel courts from penalties and violators will face firm action. The administration has capped operating hours at 20:00, applies to all residential-zoned courts including those with PBG, and will not negotiate extensions. Jakarta has 397 padel courts, 185 of which lack permits; new courts in residential zones are prohibited, with future development allowed only in commercial zones and subject to initial technical approval from the Youth and Sports Agency.

BMKG outlines efforts to tackle forest and land fires and floods in Sumatra ahead of the dry season

BMKG says it continues to monitor disaster areas and is conducting Weather Modification Operations in Riau and West Kalimantan to prevent and mitigate forest and land fires. In North Sumatra, OMC is used to reduce rainfall to address ongoing floods, as officials prepare a national coordination meeting ahead of the dry season. BMKG also forecasts the dry season will begin in April 2026, with a longer-than-normal duration across most zones.

Gerindra: Free Nutritious Meals Programme Included in Education Budget Because Recipients Are Students

Gerindra defends including the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG) in the education budget, arguing that recipients are students and the programme benefits the core of the education system. It says budget adjustments target inefficient and corruption-prone activities, with no cuts to MBG allocations, and calls for field oversight. The dispute follows PDI-P's publicised figures on the 2026 education budget.

Mataram residents complain about pothole-filled roads at several locations

Residents of Mataram, NTB, are complaining about potholes at several locations, including Rembiga, Pagesangan and Geguntur. Officials say they respond to reports within 24 hours and have repaired several spots, noting many of the affected roads are provincial or national. Maintenance funding is limited, with around Rp 60 million earmarked if available.

7 MC Texts for the 2026 Nuzulul Quran Commemoration Ceremony: Short, Engaging, and Islamic

A guide to seven sample Master of Ceremony texts for a Nuzulul Quran commemoration, illustrating different tones from formal mosque settings to youth and campus environments, emphasising MCs' understanding of context, audience, and mood. The texts are drawn from public speaking references and are designed to be adapted to local circumstances.

Impact of the Iran–Israel War: IHSG Closes Nearly 5% Down, Rupiah Also Weaker

Jakarta's benchmark stock index fell as Middle East tensions intensified, with the IHSG closing down 4.57% and the rupiah weakening. The decline was broad-based, supported by high trading volumes, and other regional indices also fell amid fears of a global energy crisis as Iran's actions disrupt Hormuz and oil prices rise.

Presidential Staff Office: Free Nutritious Meals Program Reaches 61.2 Million Recipients by Early March 2026

The MBG programme has reached 61,239,037 beneficiaries as of early March 2026, including schoolchildren, toddlers, pregnant and lactating women. It is supported by 24,443 Nutrition Service Units and overseen by 32,869 field supervisors; 8,700 units have Hygiene Sanitation Certification. The government aims for 82.9 million beneficiaries in 2026 and plans to expand the network to 32,000 units, while emphasising local economic impact through supplier networks and local procurement.

Video: Hotel Business Expansion in 2026 as Purchasing Power Slumps and War Effects

Pollux Group, led by Handojo Koentoro Setyadi, remains optimistic about its diverse property business amid economic and geopolitical headwinds, planning hotel expansion from Cikarang to Semarang in 2026. In 2025, hotel and apartment segments declined by around 5% while malls and F&B grew; the interview with CNBC Indonesia's Closing Bell airs on 4 March 2026.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards claim attack on IDF headquarters and Israeli Defence Ministry

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claims it attacked the Israeli Defence Forces' General Staff Headquarters and the Ministry of Defence. The IRGC asserts hits on strategic sites in Bnei Brak, Petah Tikva and Western Galilee, and says more than 680 US and Israeli soldiers have been killed or wounded since the conflict began. It notes US-Israeli strikes on Iran on 28 February and Iran's retaliatory missile strikes against Israel and US facilities in the Middle East.

Hopeful and Anxious Ojol Drivers in Jogja Await News of BHR Payout

The government has announced a Bonus Hari Raya (BHR) for online motorcycle taxi drivers (ojol) ahead of Lebaran 2026, with about 850,000 recipients and a Rp 220 billion budget. Distribution is expected to begin from H-14 to H-7 before Idul Fitri, but drivers in Jogja report they have yet to hear official details from their apps about eligibility or timing.

IWD 2026 Celebrations: KPPPA Highlights 12 Gender Equality Issues

Indonesia’s Ministry for Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection (KPPPA) highlights twelve critical areas for realising gender equality ahead of International Women’s Day 2026, including poverty alleviation, education and training, women’s health, ending violence against women, and boosting women’s participation in decision-making. The government adopts a layered approach—rights, protection, empowerment, and essential services—integrating gender mainstreaming into national development plans such as RPJMN 2025-2029 and the Asta Cita framework.

East Jakarta's Satpol PP cracks down on street vendors and illegal parking in Duren Sawit

Satpol PP and partner agencies conducted a Bina Tertib Praja operation in Duren Sawit targeting street vendors and illegal parking under Perda No. 8/2007 on Public Order. Violators face yellow cards, written statements, and, for illegal parking, tire-valve removal operations to deter breaches; authorities plan ongoing patrols and better pedestrian access.

KPK: The Family of Fadia Arafiq Enjoy Rp19 Billion From Pekalongan Regency Government Outsourcing Services

The KPK has revealed that the family of Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq benefited Rp19 billion from outsourcing services procurement and other procurements within the Pekalongan Regency Government for the 2023-2026 fiscal years. The agency alleges intercession to secure contracts for the family business, with Fadia named as the sole suspect. The case arose from a KPK arrest operation in Semarang on 3 March, with 14 people detained.

How to File Your Personal Annual Tax Return for 2026 via Coretax, Deadline 31 March

Taxpayers can now file their Personal Annual Tax Return entirely online through the DJP Coretax system, reducing the need to visit offices. After activating their Direktorat Jenderal Pajak Coretax account, the filing can be completed online, with an electronic receipt issued upon successful submission. The deadline is 31 March 2026 to avoid administrative sanctions.

Don’t Just Buy Takjil Blindly: Here Are Signs of Foods Containing Formalin and Borax

BPOM warns that some takjil sold may be treated with hazardous substances, including formalin, borax and illegal textile dyes. It outlines signs of contamination—unusual texture, odour, long shelf-life at room temperature, or striking colours—and highlights health risks from long-term exposure.

KPK Reveals Regency Secretary and Officials Warned Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has disclosed that Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq was warned by the regency secretary and other officials about potential conflicts of interest in a procurement that benefited a family-owned company; she did not heed the warnings. The KPK has named her the sole suspect in a Rp46 billion outsourcing procurement case and she has been detained as part of the investigation, with prosecutors suggesting the case tests KPK's objectivity amid other high-profile cases.

Tecno Teams Up with Tonino Lamborghini, Unveiling Luxuriously Designed PCs, Laptops, Tablets and Smartphones

Tecno has announced a collaboration with Tonino Lamborghini at MWC 2026 in Barcelona. The partnership will see Tecno devices, including PCs, laptops, smartphones and IoT ecosystem devices, designed with Tonino Lamborghini-inspired styling. The Taurus (Mega Mini G1 Pro) is showcased as the first product from the collaboration, a mini gaming PC featuring a copper water-cooling system and high-end components.

OJK–Bareskrim raid PT MASI’s office over capital market case

Indonesian financial regulator OJK and police investigators raided PT MASI’s offices in South Jakarta as part of an ongoing probe into alleged manipulation of material facts in the capital market. The operation uncovered documents and other evidence, including USB drives, linked to a scheme involving fixed allotment IPOs and misreported IPO fund usage, with alleged inter-affiliate transactions and a substantial insider-trading gain. Two individuals have been named as suspects, including the former head of Investment Banking at PT MASI and the beneficial owner of PT BEBS.

US-Israel Aggression Against Iran: Observer Says Indonesia's Firm Stance Will Be Tested on the Global Stage

As the US and Israel launch air strikes on Iran amid negotiations, a leading Indonesian Middle East expert argues that civil society voices, including those of NU and Muhammadiyah, are justified in protesting. The piece highlights calls for Jakarta to speak out and to emphasise Indonesia's role as a voice of the Global South.

Spain Rejects US Drive to Attack Iran, Here’s Why

Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez opposes war against Iran, warning that the Iraq invasion has made the world less safe and that a confrontation with Iran would not yield a fairer world or better living standards. He notes US pressure, while a diplomat says Israel and the US share aims to pressure Iran; Iran’s oil significance adds context to the broader tensions.

Prabowo summons Bahlil, Rosan, and the Religious Affairs Minister to the Palace on Wednesday afternoon

President Prabowo Subianto convened a limited afternoon meeting at the Presidential Palace to align on food and energy supply and Ramadhan-to-Eid preparations. Attendees included the Coordinating Minister for Food Security, Zulkifli Hasan; Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia; Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar; Rosan Perkasa Roeslani, head of BKPM and CEO of Danantara; and the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, who is also head of the Mineral Industry Agency. The ministers outlined planned reports from their respective portfolios, with topics spanning Nuzulul Qur’an, staple supply, and Eid readiness.

Lombok Timur Regency Allocates Rp30 Billion for Ramadan Social Assistance

Lombok Timur Regency in West Nusa Tenggara has earmarked Rp30 billion for Ramadan social assistance, aiming to benefit about 198,000 residents in the lowest income deciles. The aid will be distributed as basic food parcels containing 5 kg of rice, 1 kg of sugar and 1 litre of cooking oil, with recipients selected based on the latest validated data at village level.

Middle East Tensions: Bahlil Ensures Subsidised Fuel Prices Will Not Rise Ahead of Eid al-Fitr

Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has pledged that subsidised fuel prices will not rise ahead of Eid al-Fitr 1447 H, despite potential global oil price movements linked to Middle East tensions. He spoke ahead of a limited meeting with President Prabowo Subianto on 4 March 2026 and said non-subsidised fuel will follow market rules, with stockpiles of BBM and LPG secured for Lebaran.

Rp33 Billion in Unclaimed Royalties at LMKN

The National Collective Management Institution (LMKN) has announced Rp33 billion in unclaimed royalties, including Rp24 billion in digital royalties from 2021–2024. The release marks the first public disclosure of unclaimed royalties since Indonesia's royalty system began, covering about 2 million song uses by 30,000–300,000 rights holders domestically and internationally. Rights holders who wish to claim must first join an LMK; claims must be made within two years of the announcement, after which funds go to a reserve fund.

All national roads and bridges affected by floods in Sumatra are now fully operational

By 2 March 2026 the PRR reported that all national roads and bridges in Aceh have become functional, with North Sumatra and West Sumatra making similar progress, restoring essential connectivity and logistics. While regional infrastructure remains under rehabilitation, the government is accelerating works to return life to normal and emphasising nationwide coordination.

OJK Names Two Suspects in Mirae Asset Sekuritas Pump-and-Dump Stock Case

Indonesia's financial regulator OJK has named two suspects in a case involving Mirae Asset Sekuritas and allegations of stock manipulation and IPO price manipulation dating from 2020 to 2022. The suspects, AS and M, allegedly carried out insider trading, IPO manipulation, and fake stock transactions through a network of affiliated entities and nominees, causing BEBS shares to surge by as much as 7,150% in the regular market. Investigators also raided Mirae Asset Sekuritas' offices in Jakarta in connection with the case.

Law Minister stresses the press's strategic role in safeguarding democracy and overseeing government

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas says the press plays a strategic role in safeguarding democracy and supervising government actions. Speaking at a silaturahim and iftar with mass media in Jakarta, he argues the media functions as a check on power, not merely a conduit between government and the public. The event, attended by 37 editors-in-chief and journalists from various outlets, underscored the ministry's openness to media engagement.

VW Launches Mudik Readiness Programme for ID. Buzz

Volkswagen Indonesia has launched a Mudik Readiness Programme ahead of Eid al-Fitr travel, offering free 32-point vehicle inspections, a Volkswagen Ready Workshop operating 19–24 March 2026, and 24-hour Emergency Roadside Assistance via 14023 for ID. Buzz owners. The programme is designed to give customers peace of mind and safety throughout the Mudik journey, with information available on Instagram and YouTube.

PLN Peduli Biogas Programme Realises Clean Energy in Sinjai

The Integrated Village Biogas Programme installed a 12 cubic metre biodigester in Dusun Bakae, Saukang Village, Sinjai Timur, as part of PLN UID Sulselrabar's CSR efforts, conducted with Yayasan Peduli Bangsa Sinjai and supported by the Sinjai Regency Government. The project aims to deliver long-term, safe, sustainable energy, while expanding its benefits to the village community, including access to cleaner cooking energy and enhanced local welfare.

Pekalongan Regent's Rp48 billion corruption money could fund 400 houses or 50 km of roads, says KPK

The KPK has named Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq as a suspect in a case of alleged corruption in outsourcing service procurement and other purchases in Pekalongan Regency for the 2023-2026 fiscal years. The agency noted that Rp46 billion was paid to a company owned by the Regent’s husband and child, with about Rp24 billion remaining after employee costs, potentially funding about 400 houses or 50-60 kilometres of roads for the public. A detention order for the Regent was issued for the first 20 days of March 2026 as the case proceeds to investigation.

Parliament States Government Does Not Regulate Removal of Internet Quotas

The Indonesian DPR asserts that the government does not directly regulate the removal or waiving of internet quotas. The discussion focuses on Article 28 of the Telecommunications Law, as amended by the Omnibus Law, and how tariff settings are left to market mechanisms, with the state providing a tariff formula to guard against high or predatory pricing. The case is being heard at the Constitutional Court where DPR counsel argues that quota removal is an issue of service delivery by network operators.

Amran and Wamendag Release 2,280 Tonnes of Indonesian Rice to Saudi Arabia

Indonesia has begun exporting premium Befood Nusantara rice to Saudi Arabia to meet the consumption needs of Indonesian haj pilgrims for the 2026 season, via Bulog. A total of 2,280 tonnes will be shipped in stages, with the rice boasting a breakage rate around 4% and moisture under 14%. Officials emphasised the product is halal-certified, processed through high-standard Rice Milling Units, and that domestic rice stocks remain secure as the export proceeds.

MSCI Under Spotlight as OJK Outlines Four Steps for Capital Market Reform

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has outlined four reform steps in its talks with MSCI, covering share ownership disclosure, investor classification, higher free float, and high shareholding concentration. The measures, coordinated with BEI and KSEI, aim to bolster global investor confidence and market liquidity, with March 2026 as a key milestone; enforcement actions have also been taken, including penalties totalling Rp23.6 billion and sanctions against two firms.

Incident in Corridor 13: Police name Transjakarta driver as a suspect

Police have named a Transjakarta driver identified as Y as a suspect in a crash involving Transjakarta buses BMP 263 and MYS 17100 on Corridor 13 in South Jakarta. The driver was not detained, and the case involves possible penalties under the Traffic and Road Transport Law; 24 people were injured, all from the other bus.

Regional Secretary Repeats Warnings to Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq Over Conflict of Interest, but They Were Not Heeded

The KPK says it has repeatedly warned Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq about potential conflicts of interest in her involvement with a family-linked company in local procurement, warnings which the Bupati allegedly ignored. The agency has collected evidence and the case alleges corruption under Indonesian anti-corruption laws as PT RNB secured multiple outsourcing contracts across the Pekalongan Regency government.

Tito Urges Swift Construction of Pilot Bridges to Restore Connectivity

The Sumatra Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force reports progress on pilot bridges across Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra, with several sites at varying stages of completion and eight pilot bridges already finished in Aceh. Tito Karnavian says the Indonesian Army (TNI AD) is delivering the work and has coordinated with the Minister of Public Works to accelerate reconstruction to restore mobility and logistics.

Fadia Arafiq tells the KPK she did not know procurement rules because she is a former dangdut singer

The KPK revealed that Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq claimed she did not know the procurement rules due to her background as a former dangdut singer. The agency notes her experience as a musician does not exempt her from understanding good governance, as she has served as Regent for two terms and as Deputy Regent from 2011-2016. The case highlights ongoing anti-corruption actions, with Arafiq later named as the sole suspect in a 2023-2026 outsourcing services procurement case in Pekalongan.

Kemenag: Aiman & Aisha Are Not Merely Products, but a Civilisational Endeavour

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs says the AI platform Aiman & Aisha is not merely a new technology product but a civilisational endeavour. The launch, hosted by Republika in Jakarta, framed AI as a thinking partner for humans and as a tool to promote moderate Islamic literacy. It highlighted a shift to a world where distance is measured by signal speed and knowledge flows through algorithms.

Outcry as primary school pupil found dead with multiple injuries in West Bandung Regency home

A 12-year-old primary school pupil from Kampung Warung Tiwu, Cipatat, West Bandung Regency, was found dead at his home with multiple injuries, and his mobile phone was missing from the scene. Police say the injuries include a wound to the neck and multiple injuries on the back, and investigators are questioning witnesses to determine the circumstances, including whether a robbery occurred.

Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq's bribery modus operandi: using a family company to win tenders

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq as a suspect in a Rp46 billion outsourcing procurement case, alleging she steered tenders to a family-owned company. The allegations include instructing officials to prioritise the family firm, manipulating the initial price estimate (HPS), and funneling funds to her husband and child. Arafiq claims ignorance of any wrongdoing and remains detained for the initial 20 days, with detention extended to 23 March 2026.

Choosing to Pay Zakat at the Start of Ramadan

A personal reflection argues for paying zakat at the start of Ramadan to ease mental load, support recipients early, and ensure zakat funds empower education, health, and humanitarian work. It promotes Dompet Dhuafa and other zakat institutions, and frames Ramadan as a time for mindful giving rather than last‑minute euphoria.

Philippine lawmakers advance impeachment of Vice President Duterte

Philippine lawmakers in the House of Representatives' justice committee voted to require Vice President Sara Duterte to answer impeachment complaints accusing her of unexplained wealth, misuse of confidential funds and publicly threatening President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. If convicted by the Senate, she could be removed from office and disqualified from future government roles. The move comes as Duterte, seen as a possible 2028 presidential contender, remains at odds with Marcos, while Duterte's defence team pledged to respond through constitutional processes.

Waist Size Could Signal Central Obesity Risk; Check Your Safe Waist Circumference Limit

In Indonesia, waist measurements are highlighted as a simple warning sign for rising central obesity, a health risk that is greater than weight alone. Health officials cite SKI 2023 and data from the 2025 Free Health Check programme showing a significant portion of adults at risk, urging lifestyle changes and early detection.

Pramono Refuses to Negotiate with Padel Operators, Operational Hours Fixed at 8:00 p.m. WIB

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has rejected requests from padel court operators to extend operating hours beyond 8:00 p.m. WIB, emphasising that the limit applies to all residential-area padel courts, regardless of Building Permits. The government also restricts new residential padel construction and requires technical approval for future projects to prevent indiscriminate development, with enforcement powers including warnings, shutdowns, and license revocation.

Workers demand Prabowo's pledge to end outsourcing; Labour Ministry agrees to implement it gradually

Workers again pressed President Prabowo Subianto to fulfil his May Day 2025 pledge to abolish outsourcing, during a demonstration outside the Kemnaker in Jakarta. Deputy Labour Minister Afriansyah Noor reportedly agreed to a gradual phase-out, with FSPMI involved in revising Government Regulation No. 35 of 2021, and the protest urging a new Labour Law by October 2026 along with other reforms.

Former Mirae Asset Securities Director Alleged to Be Involved in BEBS IPO Manipulation Case

Investigators from the OJK conducted a search at Mirae Asset Sekuritas as part of an inquiry into alleged manipulation of BEBS's IPO allotment and spoof trading, with 25 witnesses questioned. The probe also involves Asep Sulaeman Sabanda as the beneficiary and MWK, a former Mirae director, with the regulator emphasising ongoing cooperation with the courts and police to uphold market integrity.

First export of 2,280 tonnes of premium rice to Saudi Arabia, Agriculture Minister Amran: Real action, not illusion

Indonesia has begun exporting 2,280 tonnes of Premium CBP rice to Saudi Arabia, led by Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman. The shipment is intended to meet the needs of Indonesian Hajj pilgrims in Saudi Arabia and, potentially, Umrah pilgrims and Indonesian residents, signalling a broader push to bolster the country’s position as a rice exporter. The initial export is valued at Rp38 billion, with extra markets eyed in the region.

Bahlil Explains Why Indonesia's Fuel Stock Lasts Only 21-25 Days: Storage Capacity Is Not Sufficient

Indonesia’s Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia explains that the fuel stock sits at around 21-25 days because domestic storage capacity is around 25 days; the government plans to extend storage to three months under President Prabowo Subianto to bolster energy resilience. The discussion follows public comparisons with Japan’s 254-day stock amid tensions involving Iran, Israel and the United States.

Note the dates and locations of truck operation restrictions in Central Java.

The Central Java Police announced ahead of Lebaran 2026 that cargo truck operations will be restricted under a joint decree signed by the Director General of Land Transportation, the Chief of Police Traffic Corps, and the Director General of Highways. The restrictions run from 12:00 WIB on 13 March 2026 to 24:00 WIB on 29 March 2026, with toll routes in Central Java affected; motorists are urged to follow traffic management measures for safety and smooth flow.

Lebaran 2026, the Ministry of Transport Prepares 814 Ships to Transport 3.2 Million Passengers

The Indonesian Ministry of Transport announced it has prepared 841 ships with a total capacity of around 3.2 million passengers for Lebaran 2026, with registration opening on 6 March and departures from 11 March to 6 April. A 30% tariff discount is offered on all Pelni economy-class PSO routes to help ease the burden on travellers, while safety and port readiness are prioritized through comprehensive ship inspections and upgraded facilities.

Fifth Day of War: Iran Launches 40 Missiles at the US and Israel

On the fifth day of the Middle East conflict, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it fired around 40 missiles at targets in the United States and Israel. Tehran’s claim comes amid ongoing Israeli and American air strikes; CENTCOM reports Iran has fired more than 500 ballistic missiles and over 2,000 drones in retaliation. U.S. lawmakers were briefed on the escalating risks to American forces.

SPT filings via Coretax reach 40% of target

As of 4 March 2026, the Indonesian Directorate General of Taxes reports 5.74 million taxpayers have filed their 2025 annual income tax returns via the Coretax system, amounting to 40.7% of a 14 million target. The figures come as DJP promotes Coretax features and outreach to avoid backlogs ahead of deadlines.

Pekalongan Regent Used WhatsApp Group 'Belanja RSUD' to Distribute Embezzled Funds

The KPK has revealed that Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq distributed proceeds from alleged corruption through a WhatsApp group named 'Belanja RSUD'. The management and distribution of the funds were organised by FAR, with communications conducted via the WA group alongside her staff. The operation involved 14 arrests after an early morning OTT in Semarang, Central Java.

55 Pelni Ships Deployed to Transport Homebound Travellers: Here Is the Doomsday Date Prediction

Pelni will field 55 ships to manage Eid al-Fitr travel in 2026, with a total capacity of 56,069 seats and 751,550 tickets planned, down from 2025. It expects 641,025 mudik passengers by sea, a 1.4% fall on the previous year, and cites capacity dispensation as the reason for lower ticket availability and passenger forecasts. The operator has stressed rigorous docking, Ramp Checks with the Ministry, enhanced safety training, and safety equipment levels well above international requirements ahead of the peak period.

Elnusa Petrofin distributes hundreds of staple food parcels in North Jakarta

PT Elnusa Petrofin distributed hundreds of staple food parcels to residents of North Jakarta during Ramadan and ahead of Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijri. The CSR initiative, rolled out nationwide but symbolically staged in Plumpang Semper, aims to bring joy to communities and strengthen ties with local residents and policymakers; 250 parcels were handed out on the day.

Indonesia's PPN Ministry backs North Penajam Paser as buffer for IKN

The PPN Ministry will note suggestions from the North Penajam Paser district government and maintain intensive dialogue to accelerate Penajam’s infrastructure development as part of Nusantara. The district envisions Penajam as a buffer region to bolster Nusantara’s transport connectivity and socio-economic strength, including plans for a Riko River bridge, two dams to supply raw water, and upgrades to education and health facilities.

Deputy Labour Minister writes to Finance Minister Purbaya, calls for abolition of THR and severance tax

Afriansyah Noor said a formal request had been sent to the Finance Ministry seeking the abolition of taxes on THR and pesangon (severance pay). With Lebaran THR approaching, the ministry will coordinate again with the Finance Ministry on workers' demands, while protests outside the ministry highlight calls for tax relief and fairness. Workers also pressed for policy changes, including revival of BPJS Kesehatan PBI participants and the Domestic Workers Act, alongside opposition to importing Indian pickup trucks.

Shi Rufei's Mission to Create Prosperity Through Liu Bao Tea

Shi Rufei, deputy to the National People's Congress (NPC) and secretary of the Communist Party at Heishishan Tea Factory in Liubao, outlines how Liu Bao tea is driving intangible cultural heritage, industrial revitalisation, and openness along the Ancient Tea Ship Route. The tea’s international debut in Indonesia has catalysed job creation and local development through a company–cooperative–farmer model and broader industry integration.

Indonesian Ambassador to the UAE confirms no Indonesian citizens have been harmed amid Middle East tensions

Indonesian Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, Judha Nugraha, has confirmed that no Indonesian citizens have been harmed amid escalating tensions in the Middle East that have disrupted airspace and flight operations in the UAE. The Indonesian missions in Abu Dhabi and Dubai are monitoring developments and coordinating with authorities, airlines and the Indonesian community; at least 41 Indonesians are currently reported as stranded, with the possibility of more as more people report in. They urge those affected to contact the embassy or consulate promptly.

Minister of Communications and Digital Meutya Hafid Suddenly Visits Facebook Office, What's Going On?

Indonesian Minister of Communications and Digital Meutya Hafid and her delegation paid an unannounced visit to Meta’s Indonesia office. The meeting with Meta Indonesia representatives, led by Alexander Sabar, began around 15:20 WIB on 4 March 2026, with no statements issued by either side as the talks were ongoing.

Prabowo's intention to mediate has been conveyed to the US and Iran

Indonesia has offered to mediate in the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. Foreign Minister Sugiono says he has spoken with both sides, though no decision has been reached and both sides are monitoring developments; Prabowo's mediation proposal would require consent from both states, with Iran's embassy in Jakarta noting mediation may not alter the situation.

IRGC declares full control of the Strait of Hormuz as world oil prices brace for $200 per barrel

Iran's IRGC says it has full control of the Strait of Hormuz, threatening to block shipping. The claim follows regional tensions and predictions that oil prices could surge toward $200 per barrel as markets react to potential disruption of a major energy chokepoint. The move is part of Iran's retaliatory actions following the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei by Israel and the United States.

Tangsel Health Office Tests Contents of Ramadan Takjil Dishes

The Tangerang Selatan City Health Office conducted monitoring and sampling of takjil foods served to break the fast at several strategic sites in Tangsel. Officials also carried out outreach to traders on hygienic food handling and safe packaging to prevent food poisoning. The move aims to safeguard a healthy, safe and blessed Ramadan for residents.

Ministry of Trade Actively Monitors Basic Commodity Prices Ahead of Eid al-Fitr

Indonesia’s Ministry of Trade says it is actively monitoring staple-food prices across the country ahead of Eid al-Fitr 1447 H, in collaboration with the National Food Agency and regional governments. It highlights Minyakita cooking oil at the maximum retail price (HET) of Rp15,700 and uses a real-time SP2KP dashboard to track stock, supply and price movements, enabling rapid interventions when needed.

Street Children in Jakarta Earn Up to Rp 30,000 a Day by Selling Tissues and Dropping Out of School

In central Jakarta, several street children are reported to earn between Rp 10,000 and Rp 30,000 a day by selling tissues around transit hubs and traffic lights. Some have dropped out of school to help their families, while others continue schooling alongside work, highlighting ongoing child labour and disruption to education.

Geopolitical Tensions Between Iran and Israel–US: Lawmaker Urges Government to Accelerate Import Diversification and Energy Resilience

Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East involving Iran and the United States and Israel threaten to close the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns over national energy security as the route accounts for about a fifth of global oil and LNG trade. Indonesian lawmakers urged rapid, strategic government action, noting that 20–25% of Indonesia's crude imports pass through Hormuz, and calling for broader diversification beyond the Middle East, including reducing LPG dependence. While authorities say domestic energy supply is secure for now, experts recommend long-term structural measures, stronger supply security for Pertamina, and an acceleration of domestic oil and gas production and renewable energy transition.

Occupational Safety as Part of Social Responsibility and Good Governance

ASM has strengthened its ESG credentials in maritime infrastructure by securing a Platinum award for Zero Accident and P2K3 recognition, following 1,200,622 safe man-hours without a fatal accident between March 2023 and September 2025, during Patimban Port Phase 2 development. The chief executive emphasises that occupational safety is a core element of social responsibility and governance, describing zero-accident as a moral commitment to ensure every worker returns home safely.

Government Urged to Guarantee the Safety of Indonesian Umrah Pilgrims in Saudi Arabia

Indonesian lawmakers urge the government to safeguard Indonesian umrah pilgrims currently in Saudi Arabia as tensions in the Middle East rise, calling for cross-ministerial coordination, data mapping, emergency accommodation, and a potential flight rerouting with a staged evacuation plan. The government is also engaging with Saudi authorities on hotel relaxations, while airlines offer refunds to affected pilgrims.

SMBC Indonesia Disburses Rp185.4 Trillion in Loans Throughout 2025

SMBC Indonesia reported consolidated lending of Rp185.4 trillion for 2025, up 3.3% year on year. Growth was driven by the corporate and commercial segment and Jenius loans outside Digital Micro, while the bank maintained strong liquidity and continued its community empowerment programme reaching millions.

SMBC Indonesia's Assets Reach Rp 245.9 Trillion by End-2025

SMBC Indonesia closed 2025 with consolidated assets of Rp 245.9 trillion and loans of Rp 185.4 trillion, underpinned by stronger risk management and governance. The year saw healthy liquidity, funding efficiency (CASA 40.6%), and a CAR of 29.3%, with a consolidated net profit of Rp 506 billion attributable to owners. The bank's subsidiary, BTPN Syariah, also posted a double-digit rise in net profit.

Prabowo's Tile-Roofing Scheme: Replacing Zinc Roofs with Tiles Using the APBN

The Indonesian government is preparing to implement a tile-roofing programme under the Self-Help Housing Stimulus (BSPS), with an estimated cost of Rp 2-3 million per house. The scheme aims to promote domestic UMKM products and expand access to housing finance while targeting data-driven distribution from 2026 onward.

Gibran Urges Teachers to Master AI: Don't Be Afraid to Upgrade Yourself

In Bandung, Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka urged teachers and parents to enhance their AI literacy and critical thinking as Indonesia embraces digital transformation. Speaking at the AI Ready ASEAN workshop, he warned that educators must upgrade their capabilities and not fall behind, emphasising that AI should be used ethically and wisely. The remarks underscore the government’s push to integrate AI across education, economy, and public services.

Analyst: Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin Emerges in the Presidential Field, Echoing SBY in the 2004 Elections

A political analyst suggests Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin’s appearance in the 2029 presidential race could mirror Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono’s path in 2004, when a cabinet post helped elevate his profile. While political cycles are not exact, the piece notes the dynamic and unpredictable nature of Indonesian politics ahead of the 2029 election.

Understanding the Strait of Hormuz: Location, History and Its Economic Strategic Importance

Disruptions to Hormuz threaten global energy supplies, with about 20-25% of world oil and around 20% of global LNG passing through the strait. It is a lifeline for Asia’s energy needs, and even small disruptions can trigger downstream manufacturing and transport shocks. As a net oil importer, Indonesia would face higher prices, currency pressures, and strains on national fuel stocks.

Constitutional Court Rejects Challenge to Expired Internet Quota for Indonesian Citizens — Here Is Why

Indonesia's Constitutional Court dismissed a petition challenging the regulator's 'quota expiry' rule, ruling it inadmissible for lack of required evidence at the formal stage. The petitioner argued that Article 71(2) of Law No. 6 of 2023 on Job Creation allows operators to unilaterally implement data quota expiry without compensation to consumers. The ruling ends the challenge as the case did not meet formal requirements at the preliminary examination stage.

Alleged Criminal Offences in the Capital Market, OJK Raids Securities Firm Identified as MA

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) raided the offices of a securities firm identified as MA alias PT MASI in Jakarta as part of an ongoing investigation into suspected capital-market offences, including manipulation of material information and transactions among related parties. The probe covers events from 2020–2022 and involves insider trading, IPO manipulation, and fictitious transactions that allegedly pushed BEBS's share price up by around 7,150%; 25 witnesses have been questioned, with OJK cooperating with police and the courts.

Viral Video Shows Governor and Regent Blocked by Residents During Ramadan Safari in Bima

During a Ramadan Safari in Woha, NTB Governor Lalu Muhammad Iqbal and Bima Regent Ady Mahyudi were blocked by residents seeking urgent road repairs in Rabakodo. The incident, captured on video, circulated online as negotiations failed and authorities intervened; there has been no official response from the governor or the Bima Regency leadership yet.

BNPB cautions on utilisation of disaster victims' home repair funds

BNPB has urged disaster survivors in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra to use government home‑repair funds responsibly, prioritising accountability and transparency. As of 4 March 2026, authorities counted 301,012 damaged houses from floods and landslides, with 58,505 heavily damaged, and pledged to address all impacts through the PRR task force. In Aceh, 8,562 of about 16,000 proposed huntara have been built and occupied, while some survivors prefer independent evacuation or DTH rent support; earlier, 4,347 households in Bireuen already received housing construction stimulus through BNPB via Bank Syariah Indonesia accounts.

OpenAI Releases GPT-5.3 Instant, More Accurate and Less Cringe — Ideal for Writing

OpenAI has launched GPT-5.3 Instant, the latest model in the GPT-5.3 family designed for general users, on 3 March 2026. The release prioritises accuracy alongside speed, claiming fewer hallucinations across topics and improved performance in high‑risk domains such as medical, legal and financial uses. Internal evaluations show reductions in hallucinations of up to 26.8 per cent with web access, and substantial improvements when relying on internal knowledge.

KPK: Pekalongan Regent Fadia Admits Dangdut Singer Who Does Not Understand the Law Yet Continues to Work on Projects

Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq has admitted, during an intensive KPK examination, that she comes from a dangdut musician background and does not understand the law or local governance. The KPK says she continued to oversee government procurement projects amid alleged conflicts of interest, despite warnings from the Regional Secretary and others. The case centres on PT RNB, a company she founded with her husband and son that procured outsourcing services for Pekalongan's local government; she is charged under Indonesia's anti-corruption laws.

Bahlil Confirms BBM-LPG Stocks Safe Ahead of Eid al-Fitr Despite Middle East Tensions

Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says stockpiles of fuel (BBM) and LPG are secure ahead of Eid al-Fitr, even as Middle East tensions rise after Iranian and Israeli/US strikes. Subsidised fuel prices will not rise before the holiday, with non-subsidised prices following market mechanisms as set by the 2022 regulation.

KSP: Free Health Check (CKG) reaches 10.5 million participants in early 2026

In the first two months of 2026, the Free Health Check (CKG) programme served over 10.56 million people across 9,543 puskesmas in 514 districts and cities. About 714,808 have received treatment, with around 7.58 million still in follow-up. The initiative is run through cross-ministry collaboration, aiming to reach 130 million people in 2026 and to normalise early detection as part of the national health system.

Children Selling Tissues in Jakarta and a Stifled Childhood

In central Jakarta, street children selling tissues, busking, and begging for money risk having their mental and emotional development stifled. Psychologists warn that street life exposes them to adult behaviours and potential violence, which can undermine education and future prospects, though resilience can be fostered with mentoring and support.

Minister of Religious Affairs reports Nuzulul Quran plan to Prabowo

Minister Nasaruddin Umar went to the Presidential Palace to brief President Prabowo Subianto on plans for the Nuzulul Quran night, stating the briefing covered only that event. The location is undecided and no other issues were discussed with the President. The report also outlines security, sanitation and amenity arrangements for thousands of mosques and notes Bali’s Nyepi Day readiness ahead of 19 March 2026.

Mandatory Fire Extinguishers in Cars, But Not Just for Show

From January 2021, cars in Indonesia are required to carry an APAR, and new vehicles include one as standard safety equipment. Experts warn that owning an APAR alone is insufficient and that regular checks are essential; ideally APARs should be replaced or refilled annually, although a dry, well-stored unit can last up to three years.

UNM Data Science Students Involved in BRIN Nuclear Research, Set to Become National AI Experts

UNM's Data Science students are taking part in BRIN's project to develop AI models for optimising the decommissioning of Indonesia's research reactor, using Monte Carlo simulations on BRIN's HPC. The collaboration underscores the role of university students in national strategic R&D and the advancement of AI, big data and high-performance computing in Indonesia.

Ramadan Iftar Schedule for Kupang City and the NTT Region Today, 4 March 2026

This article provides local iftar times for Kupang City and districts across East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) for Wednesday, 4 March 2026 / 14 Ramadhan 1447 H, and includes two duas to recite at iftar, citing sources such as detikBali and Almanhaj.

Gus Dur: A Leadership Built on Pluralism and the Path to a National Hero Title

Gus Dur, a former Indonesian president and proponent of pluralism, led reforms that dismantled the New Order regime and laid groundwork for bodies like the KPK. He faced impeachment in 2001 amid a turbulent political era, but his legacy endures in Indonesian political culture and the ongoing Gusdurian movement.

Bamsoet Urges Strengthening Unity and Anticipating the Economic Impact of the Iran–Israel War

Bambang Soesatyo argues that Ramadan's tradition of breaking the fast together can strengthen national unity amid social polarization and global pressures, while warning that the Iran–Israel conflict could raise fuel prices and burden the state budget. He calls for restraint against provocation and for Ramadan gatherings to become spaces for productive dialogue on economic empowerment, tolerance, and digital literacy, as part of a broader national consolidation.

12 Benefits of Beetroot for Health, Could Boost Brain Function

Beetroot is a nutrient-rich vegetable whose natural nitrates may improve oxygen use and blood flow, potentially supporting heart health and cognitive function. This article outlines twelve health benefits, including digestion, immunity, and skin health, emphasising suitability for regular, moderate consumption.

Government Wins Appeal Against Pontjo Sutowo's PT Indobuildco in Jakarta Administrative Court

Indonesia's government has won its appeal against Pontjo Sutowo's PT Indobuildco in a state administrative dispute over land with an HGB title in the Gelora Bung Karno complex, Jakarta. The Jakarta High Administrative Court accepted the government's jurisdictional objections and ruled that the three demand letters arose from civil-law relations, not administrative action, and dismissed Indobuildco's suit. The decision follows a related civil case in which the state was upheld, and it could influence future proceedings over hotel property in GBK.

Understanding How to Read Nutrition Labels on Packaging

Nutrition information on food packaging helps the public estimate calories and nutrient intake, but only if labels are read correctly. Susana S.T.P. of Nutrifood explains that serving sizes and multi-serving packaging can affect total calories and nutrients consumed, and that labels typically detail energy, total fat, saturated fat, sugar, protein, and sodium, among others, which should be moderated if consumed in excess.

Iran Goes on the Rampage, Attacks Several US Embassies in the Gulf Region

Drone attacks appear coordinated, targeting US embassies and consulates across the Gulf, triggering evacuations of over 200 staff and family members. The incidents, drawn from US State Department documents, underscore rising regional tensions and Iran's alleged role in backing the attacks. Washington has yet to issue an official public statement.

Box Labeled 'Fragile' Turns Out to Contain 102 Grams of Methamphetamine! 22-Year-Old Man Arrested in Grogol

Police in West Jakarta have seized 102.2 grams of methamphetamine hidden inside a cardboard box marked 'Fragile' in Grogol. A 22-year-old man identified as ERI was arrested, and investigators say the drug was concealed to mislead authorities. The case is being handled by Ditresnarkoba Polda Metro Jaya, with a public safety message urging the community to avoid drugs and to report suspicious activity.

Real-Time Monitoring of DHE SDA Management via Kopra by Mandiri

Bank Mandiri has launched the DHE Tracker within Kopra by Mandiri to give exporters real-time visibility of incoming DHE SDA funds in Rekening Khusus, improving compliance with Government Regulation No 8 of 2025 and cash flow management. The system offers self-flagging, automated notifications, and downloadable reports within a single digital ecosystem, while executives say it strengthens the national financial system and supports sustainable export growth. The article notes strong transaction growth and user uptake for Kopra by Mandiri as of December 2025.