Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 4 March 2026

Showing 2,001-2,478 of 2,478 articles

Pertamina vessel trapped in the Strait of Hormuz, government prepares oil imports from the United States

The Indonesian government is preparing to import oil and LPG from the United States following the capture of a Pertamina International Shipping vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, as several Pertamina ships operate in the Persian Gulf. Officials say the move is to ensure energy security amid regional tensions, with potential shifts in crude sourcing and a USD 15 billion energy purchases commitment under the Indonesia–US trade framework.

Rupiah Slips Near Rp17,000 on 4 March 2026

The rupiah weakened to around Rp16,930 per US dollar on 4 March 2026 amid rising tensions in the Middle East and a continued Indonesian trade surplus, with Bank Indonesia's reference rate also easing. Domestic data and external geopolitics are shaping near-term moves in the currency.

7 Skills Parents Must Teach Their Children to Help Them Succeed

Child psychologist Michele Borba identifies seven life skills essential for resilience, social competence, self-awareness, and perseverance. The article outlines self-confidence, empathy, self-control, integrity, curiosity, perseverance, and optimism, with practical steps for parents to cultivate them. It argues these foundational traits contribute to long-term success beyond academic achievement.

Property as a Stable Investment Choice During War

Amid the Iran–US–Israel conflict triggering global volatility, property is frequently cited as a relatively stable asset compared with stocks. However, experts warn that property is not a liquid 'safe haven' like gold or the US dollar, though it can act as a hedge against inflation over the medium to long term. They note that the most resilient segments tend to be land in strategic locations or detached houses in mature areas, while highly leveraged or speculative properties stay vulnerable; the current crisis could still dent Indonesia's property sector through higher energy prices, rupiah weakness, higher interest rates, and softer investor sentiment.

Endless Excavations in Kalideres Cause Congestion, Residents Baffled by Ongoing Delays

Residents and road users in West Jakarta's Kalideres are frustrated by a PAM Jaya water-pipes project that has left five open excavations along Jalan Peta Selatan, narrowing the carriageway and worsening traffic. With no workers on site for about a month, locals urge the work be completed in stages to limit disruption.

Snatch Theft in Malaysia: Influencer Loses Handbag During Petrol Station Robbery

A Malaysian influencer known online as Cabi says her handbag was snatched by a motorcyclist while she refuelled at a Shell station in Puchong Jaya, Selangor. The incident, captured on video, left her injured after she fell; a bystander helped, and she filed a police report, though no arrest had been made at the time. The episode has sparked online debate about situational awareness and victim-blaming, underscoring public safety concerns in Malaysia.

Jakarta's Posyandu ready to transform into adaptive service hubs

Jakarta’s Posyandu are to be transformed into adaptive, integrated service hubs, with Hani Pramono – head of the Jakarta Province Posyandu Development Team – announcing readiness to drive the changes. At a ceremony on 3 March the Provincial Posyandu Steering Team for 2025-2030 and the leadership for the Integrated Service Post at provincial and city/district levels were inaugurated, signalling Posyandu as the frontline in implementing six Minimal Service Standards. Governor Pramono Anung urged Posyandu to actively tackle stunting, TB and other health issues, stressing closer collaboration with the provincial government and the need for accurate data and regular reporting to guide policy interventions.

Polri confirms that the claim that meth evidence melted is a hoax

The Indonesian Police's public relations division has debunked a hoax claiming 30 kilograms of methamphetamine evidence disappeared and melted due to hot weather. The post circulating on X has been removed, and Polri urged citizens to improve digital literacy and critical thinking when verifying information before sharing.

More than 15,000 visitors pack out the Asia-Pacific New Year Celebration 2026 in the United States

Indonesia participated in the Asia-Pacific New Year Celebration 2026 in Tacoma, Washington, showcasing Nusantara culture, cuisine and tourism promotions. The event drew over 15,000 attendees from around 47 Asia-Pacific countries and cemented Indonesia's role in diaspora diplomacy; Indonesia will host the 2027 edition.

Special Education Expansion in Singapore: Three New SPED Schools Planned by Early 2030s

Singapore's Ministry of Education unveiled plans to add three new SPED schools by the early 2030s to meet a projected 12,000 SPED students, about a 30% rise from today. The first new school, run by APSN Education Services, is due in the north‑east in the second half of 2026, with two more by the Autism Association Singapore and St Andrew’s Autism Centre, plus expansions of existing SPED campuses and digital upgrades via the Parents Gateway platform. MPs discussed broader measures including early screening, a national framework for identification, and strategies to support life after SPED education, underlining a shift toward inclusive, long‑term education and transition planning.

Lewotobi Laki-Laki Volcano Erupts in East Flores, Residents Urged to Keep 4-Kilometre Distance

Lewotobi Laki-laki volcano in East Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, erupted on Wednesday morning, 4 March, sending an ash plume about 800 metres above the summit. Authorities maintain Level II (Waspada) and urge residents within a four-kilometre radius to stay away while PVMBG and local agencies monitor the situation; warnings include possible lahars and respiratory hazards.

Maritime Security Drill in Singapore Strait: Indonesian Navy Conducts Integrated Combat Exercise

Indonesia’s Navy carried out an integrated sea-and-air combat drill in the Singapore Strait to bolster maritime security and readiness in one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes. The exercise involved KRI Surik-645 and maritime patrol aircraft P-8203 under Fleet Command I’s Sea Combat Task Force, emphasising enhanced naval-air coordination, air defense, and real-time surveillance. Officials said the training included communication checks, air-joining procedures and continuous evaluations, underscoring Indonesia’s commitment to regional security and stability of vital trade routes with Singapore and Malaysia.

Brace Yourself: Many Banks Queue for Large-Scale Mergers

The Indonesian financial regulator says numerous Bank Perekonomian Rakyat (BPR) are seeking consolidation to meet the single presence policy (SPP), leaving only a few lenders non-compliant. Recent mergers include four BPRs in East Priangan, West Java, and ongoing industry consolidation to bolster capital, competitiveness and resilience, with 2025 showing modest growth in assets and lending despite a shrinking number of BPR/BPRS.

Understanding Iran's Advanced Missiles Capable of Reaching All U.S. Bases and Israeli Territory

Following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a joint US-Israeli airstrike, Iran pivots from deterrence to existential resistance, with revenge framed as a duty and legitimate right. Lacking a modern air force, Tehran leans on what it claims is the Middle East's largest missile arsenal to strike Israel and US Gulf bases, while short- and mid-range missiles illustrate rapid launch and solid-fuel readiness.

BGN Does Not Bar Public from Documenting and Uploading MBG Meals Deemed Unfit

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) says it welcomes public documentation of MBG meals classified as unfit, and urges precise location details to allow prompt follow-up. With 24,000 SPPG already operating and a target of 30,000, officials say monitoring relies on citizen reports, and penalties will apply to non-compliant kitchens.

Breaking News! IHSG Slumps 2.4% Fifteen Minutes After Opening

Indonesia's IHSG opened 2.40% lower at 7,746.21, continuing a downward trend as morning volumes picked up around Rp5.23 trillion. The session saw heavy activity in BUMI, GOTO and BMRI as gold-mining stocks weighed on the market; domestically, Eid-related stimulus measures and regulatory updates from OJK were highlighted to bolster consumption and align with MSCI requirements.

Fatal crash on the Ngurah Rai Bypass as female motorcyclist dies after being run over by truck

A fatal traffic crash occurred on the Ngurah Rai Bypass in Denpasar when a female motorcyclist died at the scene after being run over by a truck. The victim, ARM, 51, from Tarogong Kidul in Bandung, was riding a Honda Beat; the Isuzu Box truck driver was uninjured. Investigators say the vehicles were moving in tandem from west to east and the motorcyclist fell after touching the truck door; the exact cause is under investigation.

Mount Semeru activity remains dominated by explosive eruptions

Six-hour observation on Wednesday recorded 12 explosive/eruptive earthquakes with amplitudes 10-19 mm and durations 58-99 seconds, plus additional seismic events. PVMBG has kept Mount Semeru at Level III Siaga and issued safety radii: no activity within 13 kilometres southeast along Besuk Kobokan from the summit; within 500 metres of Besuk Kobokan riverside; and within 5 kilometres of the crater, due to risks of hazardous volcanic activity.

18 Students Collapse After Eating MBG in South Aceh; Police Investigate Suspected Poisoning

Eighteen students from PAUD to senior high school in Pasie Raja were hospitalised after consuming MBG meals. Authorities, including the police, are investigating suspected food poisoning linked to a kitchen run by SPPG Ujung Padang Asahan, with the kitchen temporarily halted as the inquiry continues. Further updates will be provided as developments occur.

Delaying Traffic System at Ports Enforced During Lebaran Homecoming

Indonesia's government will implement a delaying system and buffer zones to ease congestion at ferry ports during the 2026 Lebaran homecoming. The measure covers busy routes like Merak–Bakauheni and Ketapang–Gilimanuk, redirecting certain vehicle groups and using buffer zones from 13–29 March, with Nyepi-day sailings temporarily halted at several ports.

When Iran Was Attacked, Rp164 Billion in Crypto Flows Out of Local Exchanges

As Iran was subjected to US and Israeli strikes, crypto outflows from Iranian exchanges were observed, totaling about USD 10.3 million (around Rp164.8 billion) amid a spike in late February 2026; Nobitex saw particularly sharp outflows, underscoring growing use of digital assets amid sanctions and economic instability. In 2025, Iran's crypto activity is estimated at USD 8-11 billion, highlighting the asset class's rising role in the economy.

Revealed! Each US$1 Rise in Oil Price Costs Rp6.8 Trillion

Deputy Finance Minister Juda Agung said each US$1 rise in the Indonesian Crude Price could widen the deficit by about Rp6.8 trillion, with a Rp100 depreciation against the dollar and a 0.1% yield rise also impacting the deficit. The stress tests show the deficit remaining under 3 per cent of GDP, and the government is diversifying funding—issuing Euro- and Renminbi-denominated global bonds and strengthening domestic investment via Danantara—to bolster fiscal resilience.

China condemns US-Israel strikes targeting Iranian civilians

China condemned the US-Israel airstrikes on Iran, calling the protection of civilians in armed conflict a red line under international law. The strikes reportedly hit a school in Minab, killing up to 165 people, and prompted Tehran to retaliate with missiles against Israel and US targets in the region; Washington warned Americans to leave the Middle East amid rising tensions.

Jasa Marga’s net profit falls 19.4% to Rp3.65 trillion in 2025; reasons explained

Jasa Marga reported a net profit of Rp3.65 trillion for 2025, down 19.43% from Rp4.53 trillion in 2024. Revenue declined to Rp28.89 trillion, pressured by a sharp fall in construction income, but EBITDA rose to Rp13.3 trillion, underscoring resilience in toll revenue and other income. The group saw lower cost of revenue and financing costs, though tax expense jumped, and assets and liabilities grew alongside a 6% rise in equity.

Retirees’ THR 2026 Has Been Disbursed, Amounts by Grade

The government has begun disbursing the 2026 retirees' THR in stages from 26 February 2026, covering civil servants, active civil servants, PPPK, TNI soldiers, and police. The THR amount equals the monthly pension for each grade, with distribution details outlined by the National Civil Service Agency and expected to be completed early in Ramadan; beneficiaries are advised to check their bank accounts regularly.

DPR Commission III: MBG Budget Has Been Agreed and Is Now to Be Monitored

The chair of DPR Commission III said MBG funding for 2026 has been agreed with the government and parliament and will be overseen to prevent missteps. He argued the MBG inclusion in the education budget is justified, and that no higher-priority allocation has been cut, only inefficient and corruption-prone activities trimmed.

Grab and GoTo Agree to Double Raya Bonus; Here’s What Active Partners Will Receive

Grab and GoTo have doubled Raya Bonus entitlements for driver partners ahead of Idul Fitri 1447 Hijriah. Grab is allocating Rp 100–110 billion to more than 400,000 drivers, with top awards of Rp 850,000 for two-wheelers and Rp 1.6 million for four-wheelers, while GoTo is allocating Rp 110 billion across three partner tiers. The schemes distinguish Raya bonuses from THR and aim to support drivers’ households amid rising living costs and peak Eid spending.

Iranian drone also damages CIA headquarters in Saudi Arabia, in addition to attack on the U.S. Embassy

Iranian drones reportedly damaged the CIA station in Riyadh, alongside the attack on the U.S. Embassy in the Saudi capital. No casualties were reported, but significant damage was noted to the building within the embassy complex. The IRGC asserted it aims to destroy American political centres in the region, with the CIA decline of comment and the Washington Post reporting on the incident.

Video: Drug Distributor Expansion in 2026, Adding Products and a Digital Application

MDLA's 2025 growth reached 15% with net profit potentially hitting Rp380 billion. The company, focused on distributing and marketing pharmaceutical, health, and medical devices, remains heavily weighted toward prescription medicines, which account for about 75% of MDLA's business. MDLA also launches the Go Apotek digital app to target younger consumers and is expanding a distribution partnership with Merck for prescription medicines.

No Intention to Wage War on Iran, Qatar Says: Only Defending Itself

Qatar insists it is not involved in any offensive action against Iran and is acting only in self-defence. The denial followed claims that Qatar attacked Iran, which Doha rejected and urged international media to cite official Qatari sources. The statement comes amid rising regional tensions after US-Israel strikes on Iran and retaliatory fire, with Gulf states' positions under increased scrutiny.

42 Phones Priced from Rp 999 Thousand to Rp 3 Million Ahead of Eid al-Fitr 2026

Ahead of Eid al-Fitr 2026, demand for new smartphones typically increases as people seek better devices for social visits or to upgrade existing ones. A survey of 69 models across major brands shows options from Rp 999 thousand to Rp 3 million, with varied features across displays, batteries, cameras and connectivity.

On Sale! Antam Gold Price Today Falls Rp77,000; Time to Stock Up

Antam Logam Mulia 1-gram gold price fell by Rp77,000 to Rp3,045,000 at 08:30 WIB, with the buyback price also down to Rp2,794,000 per gram. The declines followed a 4.5% drop in global gold prices on Tuesday, though prices recovered slightly by 06:30 WIB today to US$5,121.67 per troy ounce.

Facts About Fadia A. Rafiq's KPK OTT Arrest and Fairuz's Shock

Pekalongan Regent Fadia A. Rafiq has been detained by the KPK in a closed investigation linked to alleged procurement irregularities, including outsourcing. The arrest involved 11 people, with several Pekalongan officials being questioned and transported to Jakarta for further examination; Fairuz A. Rafiq's family has expressed surprise at the developments.

Indonesia's NOC Backs Firm Action by Minister to Tackle Harassment Case at National Rock Climbing Training Centre

The Indonesian Minister of Youth and Sports takes decisive action in response to alleged sexual harassment and physical violence at the national rock climbing training centre. The National Olympic Committee (NOC) Indonesia backs the minister's swift, objective, and transparent investigation and highlights the need to strengthen safeguarding measures across sport.

The Mystery Surrounding Activist Ermanto Usman's Death

The death of labour activist Ermanto Usman at his Bekasi home is shrouded in questions after investigators report several anomalies at the scene, including an untouched second floor, an intact safe, and a missing mobile phone. The family doubts a straightforward robbery motive, and police are investigating possible alternatives to theft.

Former Foreign Minister Highlights that the UN Lacks Power Amid US-Israel-Iran Conflict

Former Indonesian foreign minister Hassan Wirajuda criticises the United Nations for lacking enforcement power amid the US–Israel–Iran confrontation, warning of implications for Indonesia and the global economy, notably oil and gas. He spoke after a meeting with President Prabowo Subianto and senior statespeople, emphasising the need to navigate a shifting international landscape.

Honda Halts City Hatchback Production: Here’s Why

Honda Prospect Motor has halted production of the City Hatchback in Indonesia due to weakening demand in the hatchback segment, with no Nomor Identifikasi Kendaraan (NIK) issued for the 2026 model year and remaining stock at dealers. The move is framed as a strategic pause rather than a permanent discontinuation, with Honda to reassess as market conditions evolve, according to company statements citing Gaikindo data showing the City Hatchback's last production occurred in March 2025 (120 units).

Government Ensures Halal Product Certification for US Goods Aligns with Sharia and National Regulation

Indonesia's government reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding national interests in trade deals by ensuring halal compliance under consumer protection, business certainty, and industry competitiveness. Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto said the ART with the United States will operate within Sharia compliance and national regulations on Halal Product Assurance (JPH), noting that halal certification for foods and beverages is mandatory and that Indonesia recognises foreign halal certificates via MRAs with US bodies. The country also indicated that around 38 nations have MRAs with Indonesia, allowing halal-certified imports to enter without duplicative certification, while BPJPH audits foreign halal bodies continues.

China calls for energy security assurances after the 'closing' of the Strait of Hormuz

China has urged assurances of energy security after the Strait of Hormuz was effectively closed by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps following a US‑Israeli attack. The move threatens global energy supplies and highlights the vulnerability of oil imports, notably for Japan. Beijing called for de‑escalation, a peaceful resolution to Iran's nuclear issue, and the protection of freedom of navigation in the Hormuz corridor.

This Is Proof US Netizens Aren't Messing Around with 'Cancel ChatGPT'

Following OpenAI's agreement to deploy its AI model to the US Department of Defense, protests spread on social media and drained ChatGPT's performance in the US market. Sensor Tower data show a 295% day-on-day surge in uninstalls on 28 February 2026, with a sharp drop in downloads and a surge in one-star reviews, while rival Claude from Anthropic gained traction.

Pertamina Reveals 19% of Indonesia's Oil Imports Pass Through the Hormuz Strait

Pertamina confirms about 19% of Indonesia's crude imports originate in the Middle East and transit the Hormuz Strait, now closed by Iran. The company has activated alternative distribution channels and is monitoring two ships near Hormuz, while the government considers diverting some Middle East crude to the United States to safeguard energy supply amid the closure.

Hassan: Indonesia Must Be Accepted by the US and Iran If It Wants to Be a Mediator

Indonesia's bid to serve as mediator in the conflict between the United States and Israel and Iran hinges on acceptance by the warring parties, not merely Jakarta's capability. Former foreign minister Noer Hassan Wirajuda spoke after a 3.5-hour meeting with President Prabowo Subianto, which also considered the economic implications of the conflict and Indonesia's BoP membership.

Antam Gold Price Today 4 March 2026: Drops Again to Rp3.045 Million

The price of Antam gold fell sharply on Wednesday 4 March 2026, sliding Rp77,000 per gram to Rp3.045 million. The drop was driven by softer global spot prices and a weakening Rupiah, with the buyback price also tumbling to Rp2.794 million per gram; analysts urge calm and see potential for accumulation where risk profiles allow.

Dollar breaches Rp16,910, BI Governor: Firm intervention to be carried out

The rupiah weakened to Rp16,910 per US dollar as Bank Indonesia signalled ongoing intervention to stabilise the currency amid rising Middle East tensions and global risk-off sentiment. BI outlined it would deploy firm, consistent actions including NDFs, DNDFs and purchases of government securities to support the exchange rate.

Antam Gold Price Falls by Rp 77,000 to Rp 3,045,000 per Gram

Antam's gold price slipped by Rp 77,000 to Rp 3,045,000 per gram as of 08:50 WIB on 4 March 2026, with the buyback price also easing to Rp 2,794,000 per gram. Trading remains subject to tax withholding under PMK 34/PMK.10/2017, including PPh 22 on bullion purchases and buybacks; fractional gram prices are published on Logam Mulia.

BNI Gelar Mudik Gratis 2026, Simak Daerah Tujuan dan Cara Daftarnya

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk atau BNI menggelar program Mudik Gratis 2026. Program ini diinisiasi Badan Pengaturan Badan Usaha Milik Negara (BP BUMN). Pendaftaran Mudik Gratis 2026 BNI dibuka selama 27 Februari hingga 9 Maret 2026 atau sampai kuota habis. Dengan jadwal keberangkatan pada 17 Maret 2026. Seluruh perjalanan Mudik Gratis 2026 BNI memanfaatkan jalur Tol Cikampek dan Tol Trans Jawa dengan titik keluar sesuai kota tujuan masing-masing.

Deputy Speaker of the MPR Discusses Indonesia's Status in the BoP Following US-Israel Attack on Iran

Indonesian Deputy Speaker Hidayat Nur Wahid urged Indonesia to withdraw from the BoP in response to the US-Israel attack on Iran, arguing the body fuels regional war. Religious organisations and civil groups pressured Indonesia to exit, criticising BoP's role in the conflict. In a late-night meeting, Prabowo indicated Indonesia would stay in the BoP for now but would consider re-evaluating membership with other states.

MPR Urges Prabowo to fulfil BoP pledge after US-Israel attack on Iran

Deputy Speaker Hidayat Nur Wahid urged the government to withdraw from the BoP, arguing the board, created by Donald Trump, no longer serves Indonesia's peace agenda as tensions in the Middle East escalate following a US-Israel strike on Iran. The piece notes calls from civil society organisations and religious groups to exit BoP, while President Prabowo and aides discuss possible reevaluation; for now Indonesia remains a BoP member. The report also covers criticisms from MUI, Muhammadiyah and PGI and calls for sanctions and renewed diplomacy.

Former Deputy Foreign Minister Wonders Why Indonesia Did Not Offer Condolences on Khamenei's Death

An ex-deputy foreign minister urges Indonesia to publicly express condolences over the death of Iran's spiritual leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, arguing it reflects long-standing friendship and the need for respectful diplomacy. He questions whether Indonesia's silence signals doubt about its freedom to act independently and notes that Iran remains a friend despite occasional policy differences.

From Pekanbaru to Bandung to Demand Rp35 Million Debt from Ex-Boyfriend, Jesica Was Beaten

Jesica Sintya, a victim of violence allegedly inflicted by her ex-boyfriend NT in Bandung, has reported the incident to police after travelling from Pekanbaru to Bandung to demand repayment of a Rp35 million debt. She says legal steps are underway and she has endured years of abuse; the case highlights ongoing violence against women and law enforcement involvement.

Three Causes of Kawasaki Disease and Whether It Is Contagious

Kawasaki disease primarily affects young children and can lead to heart complications if untreated. The article outlines three possible causes—autoimmune disorders, genetics, and infections—and explains that the disease is not contagious and is treated with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). It also notes the estimated number of cases in Indonesia and the importance of prompt medical evaluation.

Breaking! IHSG Slumps 1.48% as Gold-Mining Stocks Drag on the Index

Indonesia’s main stock index, the IHSG, opened 1.48% lower as gold-mining stocks dragged the market. Domestic Eid al-Fitr stimulus measures and ongoing market reforms by OJK and BEI are shaping sentiment, set against a backdrop of heightened global tensions.

IHSG Declines, Tracking Asia’s Markets and Wall Street on Iran–US War Uncertainty

The Jakarta Composite Index opened 43 points weaker at 7,896 as investors brace for further declines amid Iran–US tensions. A BNI Sekuritas analyst warned of a possible slide to 7,450 if support at 7,900 gives way, with regional equities retreating. Global markets, including Wall Street, fell as oil rose on reports of disruption to Hormuz Strait.

AI Gemini 3.1 Flash-Lite Arrives, Google Promises Fast Performance at a Low Price

Google's DeepMind has unveiled Gemini 3.1 Flash-Lite, a lighter, faster variant designed for high-volume workloads. It offers adjustable thinking-level settings via AI Studio and Vertex AI, claims lower latency and faster throughput, and is priced at 0.25 USD per million input tokens and 1.50 USD per million output tokens, with preview for developers and enterprise availability via Vertex AI.

Antam Gold Price Falls Rp77,000 on Wednesday to Rp3.045 Million per Gram

Antam's gold price declined to Rp3.045 million per gram on Wednesday, with the buyback price at Rp2.794 million per gram. The article also outlines PPh 22 tax withholdings for sale and buyback transactions under PMK 34/PMK.10/2017 and lists the latest fractional bullion prices.

iCar V23 Performance Test 0–100 km/h: 7.4 seconds

The iCar V23, a retro-modern electric SUV, was tested on a safe, quiet track. Using Racelogic equipment, the vehicle achieved 0–100 km/h in 7.4 seconds in Comfort mode, with 0–60 km/h in 3.7 seconds and 3.5 seconds in Sport mode. The tests align with the manufacturer’s claim of roughly 7.5 seconds for 0–100 km/h, illustrating competitive acceleration for its class.

TransJakarta Free During Eid Al-Fitr

The Jakarta provincial government has announced that TransJakarta services will be free during Eid, a policy previously disclosed by the Governor and awaiting formal confirmation from the Department of Transport. The free service is registered as Rp1 in the electronic card system for processing, and the first day of Eid will see later start times as staff observe Eid prayers, with fleets redirected to popular holiday spots. The policy also extends to MRT for a week.

Prabowo Said to Be Ready to Review Indonesia's Membership of the BoP After Israel's Attack on Iran

President Prabowo is considering reviewing Indonesia's membership of the Board of Peace (BoP) in response to Israeli and US strikes on Iran. The discussion occurred during a meeting at the Merdeka Palace with former leaders and ministers; Hassan Wirajuda said the President signalled willingness to evaluate BoP's mandate and even the possibility of withdrawal if BoP fails to fulfil its mission. The talks also touched on Indonesia's troop contributions and BoP's credibility amid the conflict.

Impact of the Iran–US–Israel Conflict on Imported Materials for High-End Buildings Growing More Expensive

Analysts warn that a widening Iran–US–Israel confrontation could push up the cost of imported building materials for Indonesia’s luxury projects, as higher global energy prices and a weaker rupiah feed through to production and supply chains. Key components such as elevators, facade systems and MEP equipment are particularly exposed to foreign supply, potentially delaying new launches as developers grow cautious.

NATO Split! Two Nations Stand United in Condemning the US for Attacking Iran

Two NATO leaders, French President Emmanuel Macron and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, condemned a US-Israel strike on Iran as a breach of international law and urged de-escalation. They also criticised decision-making processes and stressed that international law binds all parties; the piece also notes market instability following the conflict and a separate stance by Trump toward Spain and Britain.

Foreign Ministry: Qatar not at war with Iran, only defending itself

The Qatari Foreign Ministry stated that Qatar is not at war with Iran and is exercising its right to defend itself, after media reports suggested otherwise. The spokesman urged journalists to rely on credible Qatari sources. The statement comes amid regional tensions following US and Israeli strikes on Iran and subsequent Iranian retaliation.

Around 200 Tankers Trapped at the Strait of Hormuz Entrance, Global Energy Supply Threatened

Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are starting to impact the global energy supply chain, with about 200 tankers reported stranded at the Strait of Hormuz entrance on 3 March, bringing the total blocked ships to around 300. The Strait is a crucial conduit for crude oil and LNG shipments from Gulf states to the world, and prolonged disruptions could push up oil prices, raise shipping insurance costs and heighten energy market volatility. Indonesia's government remains attentive as the situation could affect domestic fuel prices and energy security.

Revealed: US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick Visited Epstein’s Island, Set to Testify

US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick has agreed to testify before a congressional panel about the Epstein affair, following newly released DOJ documents that show a longer connection than he admitted. The evidence includes a 2012 visit to Epstein's Caribbean island and an email from Lutnick's wife seeking lunch with Epstein; the inquiry has also summoned other prominent figures as part of a wider probe into Epstein's network.

Annual Vehicle Tax Payments in Depok and Bekasi No Longer Need to Bring BPKB

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi announced that residents in Depok, Kota Bekasi, and Bekasi Regency paying annual motor vehicle tax can do so without presenting BPKB, using an e-KTP and the original STNK instead. The rule applies to 1-year PKB payments within the Polda Metro area—Depok, Cinere, Cikarang, Bekasi—while 5-year payments still require BPKB, and outside Polda Metro the usual 1-year requirements apply; online payments via the SIGNAL app are encouraged to improve access and funding road infrastructure.

US-Israel Attack on Iran: Prabowo Said to Be Charting Indonesia's Navigation Amid the Conflict

President Prabowo is reported to be mapping Indonesia's navigation amid global tensions following the US and Israel's attack on Iran. The briefing, given by former Foreign Minister Hassan Wirajuda after a meeting with senior figures, discussed potential consequences for Indonesia and the international order, amid doubts about the effectiveness of the current world order. The discussions also considered economic risks, including implications for global supply chains and energy markets.

Fasting for people with diabetes improves the hormonal system

Fasting for people with diabetes can improve insulin sensitivity and help manage blood sugar, with healthy weight loss reducing visceral fat. The article notes that most well-controlled Type 2 diabetics may fast under medical supervision, but decisions must follow a doctor's guidance. It also provides practical safety tips, including regular glucose monitoring and a 2-4-2 hydration pattern, and cautions to break the fast if levels fall too low or rise too high.

Government Agrees on 10 Mitigation Measures for Umrah Pilgrims Amid Middle East Conflict

The Indonesian government, led by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, and other stakeholders have agreed on 10 mitigation steps to address security dynamics in the Middle East affecting Umrah travel. The plan emphasises pilgrim safety, cross‑sector coordination, and options for delays, refunds, and alternative travel arrangements.

Iranian drone strikes building near U.S. Consulate in Dubai, briefly sparking a fire

A drone attack attributed to Iran hit a building near the U.S. Consulate in Dubai, causing a fire that was later extinguished with no reported injuries. The incident occurred amid heightened tensions, with related drone attacks affecting U.S. interests in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, and Washington assisting Americans to depart the region.

Dozens of CCTV Cameras in Depok Repaired to Enable Real-Time Monitoring

In Depok, 63 CCTV camera points are being upgraded to allow real-time monitoring by the public via the Depok Single Windows (DSW) app. The work involves reconfiguring IP addresses and upgrading infrastructure, with some cameras already functional while others are not yet connected. The project is focused mainly around central areas along Margonda Raya.

Special invitation from Prabowo to Former Presidents, Vice-Presidents, and Party Leaders

Prabowo Subianto invited former presidents and vice presidents, plus several general chairs of political parties, to the Presidential Palace in Jakarta to discuss the latest geopolitical developments and updates from his overseas meetings. The gathering on 3 March 2026 included Jokowi and SBY, with Megawati Sukarnoputri unable to attend; the event sought input on mitigation strategies for Indonesia from senior statesmen and party leaders.

Two Pertamina Oil Tankers Still Stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, Pertamina Speaks Out

Pertamina confirms four of its oil tankers are in the Middle East, with two still stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has closed. The company says crews are safe and assets are being secured, and Indonesia is relying on regular and emergency distribution arrangements as about 19% of imports pass through the strait. In response to the closure, the government plans to redirect some Middle East crude imports to the United States to safeguard energy supply.

Asia-Pacific Stocks Slump as Prolonged US–Iran War Weighs; South Korea’s Kospi Falls 7%

Asia-Pacific stock markets opened lower on Wednesday, 4 March 2026, led by a sharp fall in South Korea’s Kospi as selling intensified amid rising tensions in the Middle East. Investors await China’s Two Sessions and the economic targets to be announced by Premier Li Qiang, while US indices waver amid fears of a prolonged conflict.

UNVR to complete SariWangi divestment, focus on strengthening core business

PT Unilever Indonesia Tbk (UNVR) has completed the divestment of its SariWangi tea business after all transaction documents were signed and full payment was received on 2 March. The sale will not affect operations, legal matters, or the group's continuity, and proceeds will be returned to shareholders in the short term while the company focuses on strengthening its remaining core business in the long term.

IHSG Still Under Pressure, Check Out Today’s 5 Stock Recommendations

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) closed in negative territory, down 0.96% to 7,939.77 as mixed stock moves influenced sentiment. Foreign investors registered a net sell in the regular market but total market activity showed net buy overall, while Chandra Asri Pacific secured a US$200 million investment for a CA-EDC plant under PSN, and RMKO unveiled a planned rights issue; five stock picks are highlighted for the day.

Tearful Police Commissioner Yogi in the courtroom of the Brigadier Nurhadi murder trial

Police Commissioner I Made Yogi Purusa Utama broke down in tears as he read his defence in the murder trial of Brigadier Muhammad Nurhadi. He denies the charges and rejects the prosecutors' demand for a 14-year sentence, saying the outcome would ruin his family’s future and alleging pressure to confess. The hearing also covered his past disciplinary action and his claim that there is insufficient evidence of intent to convict.

AKBP Didik Transferred to Yanma After Drug Case, Police Speak Out

Former Bima Kota Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro faces dismissal and criminal charges after a narcotics case; authorities say his transfer to Yanma is an administrative move to facilitate the KKEP ruling, with no tolerance or immunity promised by the police chief as investigations proceed.

Some Countries May Not Send Hajj Pilgrims Due to War, Here Is the Hajj Ministry's Anticipation

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah says preparations for the 1447 H/2026 AD Hajj are proceeding smoothly, but the government is preparing contingency scenarios in case some countries decide not to send pilgrims amid Middle East tensions. He notes no delays or disruptions yet, and planning has begun earlier than usual, with nearly all technical components completed in advance.

Strait of Hormuz Tensions Mount as Oil Prices Rise, Bahlil Guarantees Subsidised Fuel Prices Will Not Change

Indonesia's Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says subsidised fuel prices will remain unchanged despite a rise in world oil prices driven by tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. Pertalite is priced at Rp 10,000 per litre and Biosolar at Rp 6,800 per litre, with no current plan to raise subsidised prices. He said budget and domestic subsidy implications are being carefully considered, and no decision has been made to increase subsidised BBM.

Foreign Minister Outlines Plan to Evacuate Indonesian Citizens from Iran via Azerbaijan

Indonesia's Foreign Minister Sugiono says the ministry is arranging an evacuation for 15 Indonesian citizens in Iran who wish to return home. Because Iranian airspace is closed, the operation could be routed via Baku, Azerbaijan, with Tehran–Baku flights estimated at around ten hours; logistics and health checks are being considered, and no date has been set. Not all Indonesians in affected areas want evacuation; 15 in Iran have expressed willingness, and the plan will be carried out in stages; there have been no requests from Indonesians in other conflict zones.

OJK Reveals Ramadan Fraud Modus Operandi, One Wrong Click Drains Bank Accounts

The Indonesian financial regulator OJK warns of Ramadan fraud, reporting a surge in cases in the early Ramadan period and thousands of accounts affected. It highlights digital fraud, including online shopping and link-based scams tied to Lebaran promotions, and outlines strengthened complaint channels via the IASC portal.

Jakarta North accelerates tackling stunting through food security

The North Jakarta Office of Food Security, Maritime Affairs and Agriculture is speeding up efforts to combat stunting by strengthening food security, including a community fish-farming initiative at RPTRA Bawang Putih. The programme aims to empower residents, improve nutrition, and raise awareness of the importance of a balanced diet with animal protein for young children, supported by cross-sector collaboration from the Jakarta provincial government.

Mount Lewotobi in East Nusa Tenggara erupts, residents told to stay clear of the eruption centre

Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki in Flores Timur, East Nusa Tenggara, erupted on Wednesday morning, prompting authorities to warn residents to stay at least four kilometres from the eruption centre. The ash plume reached about 800 metres above the crater, and the volcano remains at Level II (Waspada) with ongoing monitoring and public safety advisories.

Rice Prices in Tasikmalaya Remain High Despite SPHP Market

Despite the SPHP (Stabilisasi Pasokan dan Harga Pangan) programme, rice prices in Tasikmalaya remain elevated. SPHP rice is sold at Rp57,500 per 5 kg, while retailers still price premium rice at about Rp17,000 per kilogram and medium rice is increasingly scarce, with shoppers queuing for limited supplies. The situation, alongside sharp rises in prices for mushrooms and chili ahead of Ramadan, underscores ongoing affordability pressures for households.

Kraksaan district court judge dismissed by the Supreme Court for neglecting wife and child

A Kraksaan District Court judge, seconded to the Surabaya High Court, has been dismissed for neglecting his wife and child. The decision, delivered by the Judicial Ethics Council in a joint MA–KY session on 2 March 2026, also found him to have falsified his wife's personal data to speed up a divorce. The ruling included a dissent proposing demotion by two MKH members.

Chery Readies Electric Car to Take on Geely EX2

Chery is preparing to launch the QQ3, a compact electric model targeting Geely's EX2, with debut scheduled for 10 March 2026 in China. The car features a 15.6-inch floating infotainment screen, Snapdragon 8155 chipset, AI-powered voice assistant, and offers 29.5 or 41.3 kWh batteries with ranges up to 420 km. Pre-orders have begun, with about 27,139 units reportedly on order, and prices expected in the 70,000–110,000 yuan range.

Invest Rp3.37 trillion funds - Danantara and INA finance Chandra Asri project

Danantara Indonesia and Indonesia Investment Authority (INA) will jointly invest US$200 million in PT Chandra Asri Pacific Tbk's CA-EDC petrochemical project. The CA-EDC plant, part of a US$800 million project, aims to bolster domestic downstream capacity, create jobs, and reduce reliance on imports, with operations targeted for 2027.

Impact of Bahar bin Smith's Assault: Banser Member Loses Job and Incurs Debt

Fitri Yulita, wife of the Bahar bin Smith assault victim, explains the heavy toll on her family after the incident: her husband lost his job, medical expenses were not covered by BPJS, and they have exhausted their savings. The motorcycle used for work remains held as evidence, and Bahar bin Smith has offered aid but has not yet contributed. The family seeks a cooperative legal process while considering forgiveness in a broader human context.

US on Alert! Intelligence Warns of New Iranian Retaliatory Attacks

The US Department of Homeland Security warns of the possibility of new retaliatory attacks by Iran and its proxies, including cyber intrusions, following the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader. The threat assessment says small-to-mid‑scale attacks are plausible and cyber threats may rise, with Iran likely to widen operations in the Middle East; Washington vows vigilance.

Bali 23-Year-Old Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes Needs Four Insulin Injections a Day

A 23-year-old man from Denpasar, Bali, has spoken publicly about living with type 1 diabetes since his diagnosis in March 2018. He requires four daily insulin injections and monitors his blood glucose closely, but eight years on says he is not cured yet, though he is living a fulfilling life and inspiring others. The story highlights personal resilience and ongoing management of a chronic condition.

Why Paulus Tannos's pretrial challenge as a suspect in the E-KTP corruption case has failed again?

Paulus Tannos alias Tjhin Thian Po's bid to have his designation as a suspect in the e-KTP procurement corruption case reviewed via a pretrial petition failed again in the South Jakarta district court on 3 March 2026, the second such rejection after 2 December 2025. The court cited Supreme Court Circular Letter No. 1 of 2018, which bars suspects who flee or are on the DPO from filing pretrial petitions; Paulus Tannos has been on the DPO since 19 October 2021 and was arrested in Singapore in January 2025. The judge emphasised that praperadilan is a procedural control mechanism and that restricting the right to file does not permanently revoke rights.

Ramadan: The Right Moment to Reduce Sugar, Salt and Fat

Health officials say Ramadan is an ideal time for Muslims to cut sugar, salt and fat. They warn that many people underestimate sugar intake and frequently add extra salt at restaurants, increasing obesity risks. The campaign promotes gradual reductions—such as lowering tea sugar from one teaspoon to a quarter—and argues that fasting can re-train taste buds.

Foreign Investors Quietly Sell These 10 Stocks as IHSG Continues to Correct

Foreign investors recorded jumbo net purchases of Rp3.45 trillion across the overall market and Rp4.62 trillion in the negotiated and cash market, even as the IHSG fell 0.91% to 7,943.65. Turnover reached Rp29.88 trillion with 47.2 billion shares traded in 2.96 million transactions; 347 stocks fell, 343 rose and 128 were unchanged. The day’s top net foreign sellers were ANTM, BBRI, AADI, MDKA, MEDC, INCO, TINS, ADRO, ARCI and PTRO, with sizable outflows.

Around 200 tanker ships stranded at the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz

Around 200 tanker ships are stranded at the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz, bringing the total number of stuck vessels to around 300, according to MarineTraffic data cited by RIA Novosti. The Middle East conflict has disrupted shipments through the Strait, a critical route for global oil and LNG, with further clashes and nuclear talks mediated by Oman continuing.

Deputy Finance Minister Ensures Indonesia's State Budget Is Resilient Against Global Turmoil

Indonesia's Deputy Finance Minister Juda Agung says the APBN is designed to be prudent, disciplined and flexible, with deficits kept below 3% of GDP and a debt-to-GDP ratio near 40%. He also notes ongoing stress testing and diversified funding to withstand global shocks, including oil price volatility and rupiah weakness, and highlights the role of Danantara in macroeconomic management.

Narratives circulating within the US military claim that war with Iran is Jesus’s route back to Earth, leading to Armageddon

US commanders across service branches allegedly tell units that a war in Iran is sanctified by Jesus and will herald Jesus’s return to Earth as part of Armageddon. The Military Religious Freedom Foundation says it has received over 200 similar complaints from personnel across more than 40 units and at least 30 installations, with allegations of biblical references and claims that President Trump is anointed to spark Armageddon. The Pentagon has not commented on the report.

ITB Launches Master’s Scholarship Programme for Journalists, Note the Timings and Requirements

ITB has announced a Master’s scholarship programme for journalists for 2026, offering three postgraduate places in the Master of Business Administration at the ITB School of Business and Management. The programme aims to strengthen media capacity and facilitate high‑quality postgraduate access, with scholars expected to contribute to case studies, books and knowledge-based journalism outputs. Selection runs March–April 2026, with criteria including a maximum age of 45 and completion within 18 months; further details are available via WhatsApp.

Wednesday morning: Bird's-eye chillies Rp74,750 per kg, red onions Rp44,050 per kg

PIHPS data released in Jakarta show a wide spread in daily grocery prices at the retail level, with bird's-eye chillies at Rp74,750 per kg and red onions at Rp44,050 per kg. The figures cover rice across multiple grades, several chilli varieties, meats, sugar, oils and eggs, illustrating ongoing price dynamics in Indonesia's consumer food sector. The data offer a snapshot of how prices for staple foods are moving across the country.

Global Gold Prices Fall as US Dollar Strengthens and Rate-Cut Prospects Dwindle

Global spot gold fell 3.6% to $5,137 per ounce, with US futures down 3.5% to $5,123.70. The dollar strengthened and expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts faded, while geopolitical tensions and higher yields supported the greenback. Analysts say the decline could be temporary as safe-haven demand remains a potential driver of gold and silver prices, with gold having risen about 19% this year.

IHSG at risk of falling to the 7,700 level as US–Iran conflict and Strait of Hormuz closure weigh on markets

Geopolitical tensions between the US and Iran are expected to keep risk-off sentiment and push energy prices higher, weighing on the Jakarta Composite Index. Technically, IHSG has broken below the 8,000 level and the MA200, with next supports seen at 7,700–7,800 if 7,860 breaks; several energy and mining stocks are highlighted for potential investors.

Tax Officials Flaunt Crypto Seizure as Rp81 Billion Is Drained by Hackers

South Korea's National Tax Service inadvertently disclosed the mnemonic seed phrase for a seized crypto wallet, allowing an unknown hacker to drain around $4.8 million (about Rp81 billion). The incident prompted apologies and a pledge to overhaul standard operating procedures for seizing and storing digital assets, with police assistance sought to trace the attacker via blockchain flows. Given the decentralised nature of cryptocurrency, full recovery is likely to be difficult and time-consuming.

SMI introduces innovative investment instruments, broadens public participation

PT SMI announces an innovative bond-like investment instrument to widen public participation in funding national development, aligning with its transformation into a Development Finance Institution. The instrument will diversify funding beyond institutional and corporate investors, with a history of issuing Green Bonds, Sustainability Bonds, Sukuk Mudharabah, and a planned zero-coupon bond in 2025, having raised over Rp50 trillion domestically by 2025. It aims to broaden funding sources further by including public contributions to national infrastructure and ensuring funding remains aligned with long-term development needs.

IHSG Likely to Weaken as Markets Eye Iran–US Conflict Escalation and Global Policy

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) is expected to come under pressure as investors weigh geopolitical tensions and recent global policy moves. The outlook is shaped by concerns over an Iran–US escalation, potential US tariff adjustments, and moves on nickel pricing regulation, with local market transparency steps also highlighted.

Government Preparations to Face a Global War: Purbaya Claims the State Budget Is Sound and Fuel Stocks Stand at 20 Days

Indonesia's government says the state budget remains robust enough to withstand potential global oil-price shocks, after modelling scenarios for the coming year. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa notes a sharp year-on-year rise in tax and customs receipts, and tax revenue grew about 30% in January–February 2026. Energy authorities plan to expand fuel storage to a 90-day supply to bolster energy security amid international tensions.

Police Coordinate with Military Police Detachment over Rape Suspect Who Passed Army Selection

Flores Timur police will coordinate with Denpom Kupang after a rape and child sexual assault suspect, ADO, passed the Indonesian Army selection and was sworn in as a soldier on 4 February 2026, despite being on the wanted list since October 2025. The investigation began with a report on a 16-year-old victim and led to ADO being named a suspect in September 2025; he missed two summons while civilian, and a DPO was issued. The force says the case remains ongoing and denies interference.

Pentagon Identifies Four U.S. Soldiers Killed in Iranian Drone Attack in Kuwait

The Pentagon has identified four of six U.S. service members who died in Iran's drone attack on a temporary operations centre at Shuaiba Port, Kuwait. The victims were part of the 103rd Sustainment Command (Theater) based in Iowa; two others remain unidentified. CENTCOM reported 18 additional service members with serious injuries.

War Pushes Up Global Gold Prices, Antam (ANTM) Relies on Domestic Supply

Geopolitical tensions, including war, are pushing up global gold prices, while PT Aneka Tambang Tbk (Antam) says its production remains secure thanks to domestic sourcing. Antam produces around one tonne of gold from the Pongkor mine and sources additional domestic input to meet Indonesian demand, while noting rising investment literacy and purchasing power bolster demand as prices stay volatile amid policy and geopolitical shifts.

Yesterday, Aceh experienced a 6.4-magnitude earthquake amid total lunar eclipse

An earthquake of magnitude 6.4 struck Sinabang, Aceh, with tremors felt as far as Medan, according to BMKG. BMKG also flagged a photogenic moment for the total lunar eclipse in NTB on 3 March 2026, while Kemendikdasmen announced a Rp6 million special allowance for disaster-affected teachers. The lunar eclipse is expected to be visible in Batam and NTB, with observers noting the Moon's reddening at its peak if skies are clear.

Bahar bin Smith Visits the Victim's Home, Embraces the Banser Member Who Was Assaulted, and Calls for Reconciliation

During the first Tarawih night of Ramadan, the assault suspect Bahar bin Smith visited the victim, Rida, at his home to apologise and propose reconciliation via restorative justice. The victim's wife described a private talk in which she questioned why her husband was beaten and whether Bahar would cover his medical expenses; she said no funds had yet been provided. The family has incurred tens of millions in medical costs from treatment at two hospitals.

Five-Star Dubai Hotel Guests Sleep in Car Park After Iranian Missiles

Guests at a five-star hotel in Dubai were evacuated and forced to sleep in the underground car park after missiles fired by Iran. UAE defence authorities said air defence intercepted 165 ballistic missiles, two cruise missiles and more than 540 drones over two days, with debris from the downed weapons sparking fires at some of Dubai's most iconic locations. The incident highlights how regional tensions are impacting civilians in the United Arab Emirates.

Lethargy During Fasting: Normal or a Sign of Dangerous Dehydration? Doctor Explains

Weakness during fasting can be a normal bodily response as the body adapts to changes in eating and fluid intake, but signs of dehydration require caution. If dangerous symptoms appear, fasting should be stopped and fluids or medical help should be sought promptly. The duration of a typical fast (about 12–14 hours) generally does not cause severe dehydration in healthy individuals, but early recognition is important to prevent deterioration.

Trio of Defendants Cleared of Obstruction of Investigation Charges in Three Corruption Cases

Three defendants—advocate Junaedi Saibi, buzzer Adhiya Muzzaki, and JakTV director Tian Bahtiar—were acquitted by the Jakarta Anti-Corruption Court on charges of obstructing investigations in three corruption cases (tin governance, sugar import at the Trade Ministry, and licensing for crude palm oil exports). The judges ruled prosecutors had not proven malicious intent, citing professional duties and lack of involvement in the alleged schemes. The ruling also reaffirmed protections for press freedom in journalistic activity.

IHSG Today 4 March 2026: Expected to weaken amid global conflict

Indonesia's Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) is expected to ease marginally on Wednesday, 4 March 2026, as investors weigh the ongoing Middle East tensions and potential new US tariffs. Technical analysis points to a near-term trading band with support at 7,860 and resistance at 8,150, while domestic policy developments—such as new nickel price rules and monthly share-ownership disclosures—could shape sentiment; the market closed yesterday down 0.96%.

Lebaran 2026: Holiday Schedule, Collective Leave, and Prospects for a Long Break

Indonesia's Three Ministers' Joint Decree (SKB) confirms the Idul Fitri holiday schedule for 2026, including Lebaran collective leave, forming the national calendar for all workers and their families. The arrangement could enable a long holiday in March 2026, allowing mudik and family trips, with civil servants allowed flexible working and the private sector urged to align with WFA policies.

Signs Your WhatsApp Account Has Been Hacked and How to Stop It

Security warnings detail how criminals can hijack WhatsApp accounts and even steal victims’ money, via third-party apps, exploiting WhatsApp Web, or deploying malware. The piece lists warning signs—unexpected OTP messages, sudden logouts, read or self-sent messages, unfamiliar status updates, and unfamiliar calls—and offers steps to secure or recover accounts, including enabling two-step verification, contacting WhatsApp, re-installing with the registered number, and using a lock screen.

Why Iran Is Targeting Hotels, Oil Refineries and Airports, Not Just US Military Sites?

Iran has widened its reported strikes from US military targets to civilian infrastructure across Gulf states, including energy facilities and airports. The attacks have disrupted energy production at QatarEnergy and Saudi Aramco and forced major airlines to suspend schedules as airports in the UAE and Iraq report damage.

Impact of the Conflict: Ngurah Rai Airport Immigration Waives Overstay Fines for Middle East Foreign Nationals

Disruption from the Middle East crisis has prompted Ngurah Rai Airport’s immigration authorities to offer Emergency Stay Permits and waive overstay fines for foreign nationals affected by flight cancellations. The move includes a same-day ITKT issuance and the establishment of helpdesks at the airport andJimbaran, aiming to stabilise tourism and protect travellers during the disruption.

Prabowo phones Gulf leaders after US-Israel attack on Iran

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has contacted Gulf state leaders following the escalation of the Israel-US confrontation with Iran, with potential regional spillovers. The Gulf states named include Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman; a time with Mohammed bin Salman remains to be arranged. The report describes strikes on Iran and Iranian retaliation, and Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, raising regional security concerns.

To prevent further subsidence, Cipayung bridge opened only to motorcycles

Authorities in Cipayung, East Jakarta, have restricted traffic on the Kampung Kramat Bridge to motorcycles only, to prevent further subsidence of the retaining wall and bridge. Four-wheeled vehicles remain prohibited, with a temporary steel plate installed and adjacent sections reinforced; officials say the move aims to reduce congestion on alternative routes and buy time for repairs. Residents are urged to follow the restriction to ensure safety.

Dewa United's ACGL 2025-2026 Schedule: Indonesia's Only Hope in Asia

Dewa United qualified for the ACGL 2025-2026 quarter-finals as Group E winners and will face Manila Digger in the last eight, a tie with potential implications for Indonesia's league coefficient and Asian competition slots next season. The team's home games at Indomilk Arena give them a domestic advantage, and their progress marks Indonesia's sole remaining Asian hope after Persib Bandung's ACL 2 exit.

Death of JICT Retiree Ermanto Usman Raises Questions

The death of 65-year-old Ermanto Usman and the critical condition of his wife, 60-year-old Pasmilawati, in Bekasi has raised questions. The family believes the incident was murder rather than a simple burglary, pointing to anomalies such as an apparently untouched upper floor and missing items as grounds for a new investigation.

Maxi-Scooter Prices Ahead of Lebaran 2026

By February 2026, Indonesia’s maxi-scooter market remained largely stable as Lebaran approached. Most manufacturers kept prices steady for premium lines, with some Yamaha models increasing since the start of the year, while others held last year’s prices. The price spread remains wide, from about Rp28 million for entry models to Rp455 million for flagship Tmax, offering broad choices ahead of possible price adjustments.

Association reveals 14,000 Umrah pilgrims remain detained in the Middle East

Around 14,000 Umrah pilgrims are still detained in Saudi Arabia and several other Middle Eastern countries as of 1 March, according to 13 PIHU associations. The delays are attributed to closed air routes and airline policies amid the widening Middle East conflict, prompting calls for government action to secure safe repatriation and cover potential hotel costs.

DIY Weather Forecast Today: Jogja Drenched by Heavy Rain and Thunder

BMKG DIY's forecast for the Yogyakarta Special Region predicts widespread rain from the afternoon, with Jogja City expected to endure heavier downpours accompanied by thunderstorms. The outlook also covers Sleman, Bantul, Kulon Progo and Gunungkidul, with light to moderate rain across districts and coastal tourist areas likely to be affected.

This Property Sector Is Most Affected by the Iran–US–Israel Conflict

Colliers Indonesia notes that amid the Iran–US–Israel conflict, the mid-to-high-end apartment segment is the most vulnerable in the Indonesian property market. Retail properties and MICE-based hotels are also sensitive to weaker consumer and corporate activity, while landed houses and industrial estates tied to real manufacturing activity appear relatively more resilient.

Minister for Basic and Secondary Education Submits Additional Education Budget of Rp181 Trillion Not for MBG

The Indonesian Ministry for Basic and Secondary Education has submitted a Rp181 trillion Additional Budget Allocation to the DPR, clarifying it is not for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The proposals include revitalising 20,000 educational units, digitalisation of education with Interactive Flat Panels, and a teacher scholarship programme, with decisions pending in Parliament.

Questions for Russia and China as Iran is bombarded by Israel and the US

US and Israel have launched an attack on Iran, reportedly killing its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, prompting Russia and China to weigh their responses to Tehran. Moscow has issued strong condemnations but offered limited concrete support, while Beijing has condemned the killing and urged restraint, emphasising its growing economic partnership with Iran. The articles illustrate Moscow and Beijing hedging their bets to protect national interests without engaging in direct conflict with Washington, with implications for Iran, regional stability, and global energy markets.

South Korea's Kospi Slumps 7%, Asia-Pacific Stock Markets Darken on Middle East Conflict

South Korea's Kospi fell 7.24% on Wednesday, extending the previous day's steep losses amid escalating Middle East tensions. Investors in the Asia-Pacific region are also eyeing China's annual Two Sessions, with Li Qiang expected to outline economic targets at the National People’s Congress, as markets weigh geopolitical risk against growth prospects.

Police arrest killer of foreign couple whose bodies were dumped in West Bandung Regency

A suspect has been detained for allegedly killing a husband and wife identified as MA (56) and FA (47). The victims were believed to have been killed at their home in Bogor, West Java, before their bodies were found dumped in Bandung Barat. The investigation is ongoing as police trace motives and identify where the victims were dumped and autopsies are conducted.

Global Oil Prices Rise as Bahlil Comments on Indonesia's Fuel Prices

Brent crude rose to around US$81 per barrel, above Indonesia's 2026 budget assumption of US$70. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia explained that Indonesia's fuel is split into subsidised and non-subsidised categories; subsidised fuels such as Pertalite and subsidised diesel will not automatically adjust with global price changes, while non-subsidised fuels follow market mechanisms under Permen 22. The article also notes heightened Middle East tensions after Iran’s threats to close the Hormuz Strait and retaliation against US–Israel attacks, which could push oil prices higher.

Expedited pretrial hearing to decide Yaqut Cholil Qoumas's fate as Hajj-quota corruption suspect next week

South Jakarta's district court will expedite the pretrial lawsuit filed by former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas against the KPK, with a marathon hearing and a ruling scheduled for next week. The timetable compresses the process: responses, replies and rebuttals on March 4, evidence on March 6, and a judgment on March 11. Yaqut did not attend the Tuesday session, and his counsel said the client has entrusted the proceedings to them, noting he had not received a fully detailed suspect designation.

Honda confirms electric vehicle on NJKB: Is the Honda Super One set to launch soon?

Honda Prospect Motor says the electric vehicle listed in Jakarta's NJKB is a model already road-tested in Indonesia. The NJKB listing is described as an administrative step, not a confirmation of production or launch timing. Honda plans to expand its electrification lineup in 2026, but the official name and launch date remain pending.

Mobile Samsat services in Jadetabek open at 14 locations

The Metro Jaya Police have launched a network of Mobile Samsat services across 14 locations in Jakarta, Depok, Tangerang and Bekasi (Jadetabek) to facilitate payment of the annual motor vehicle tax. The service only processes PKB payments; renewals of STNK and plate changes require visits to a Samsat office. The locations and operating hours are listed across the four zones.

Government Confirms Indonesia–US ART Will Not Violate National Sovereignty

The government says the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) with the United States will respect Indonesia's sovereignty and be implemented only after domestic procedures, with a 90-day effectiveness window after both sides confirm completion of national procedures. It highlights 0% tariffs on hundreds of tariff lines and other protections for Indonesian workers, while emphasising that the pact does not obligate Indonesia to adopt US policies, and that both sides retain equal rights to terminate the agreement.

As Pramono Flaunts to Anies and Ahok: Jakarta's Old Homework Claimed to Be Cleared

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says he has resolved a backlog of issues and projects left by predecessors, including access to the Jakarta International Stadium (JIS), the Sumber Waras land dispute, and the stalled monorail pylons. He announced the progress during Cap Go Meh celebrations in Glodok, with former Jakarta governors in attendance, and outlined upcoming connectivity improvements to JIS and a linked Ancol area to ease event parking.

Middle East Conflict Pushes Global Oil Prices to Highest Level Since January 2025

Oil prices surged as renewed Middle East hostilities heightened fears of supply disruption. Brent rose to $81.40 per barrel and WTI to $74.56 per barrel, a peak unseen since 2025; Iraq cut production while Iran attacks threatened shipping routes, lifting shipping costs and market volatility.

Can the JCI Rebound? A Look at Today’s Stock Recommendations

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) is seen remaining under pressure in Wednesday trading after a 0.96% slide to 7,939. Technicals point to a tight range with support at 7,860 and resistance at 8,150 as markets stay cautious amid Iran–Israel tensions and renewed tariff concerns. U.S. policy measures to insure energy supply, and potential Navy escorts for oil tankers, are cited as factors that could ease energy inflation fears.

New Minimum Balance Rules at Bank Mandiri, BRI and BNI as of March 2026

Bank Mandiri, BRI, and BNI have published updated minimum balance requirements as of March 2026, with different thresholds across account types. The minimum balance acts as a safeguard and may be used to cover administrative charges if an account becomes inactive. The article lists the updated minimums for each product, including low or free thresholds for some student or basic accounts.

16 New Updates: US-Israel Attack Iran, Russia Issues Nuclear Warning

A running roundup traces 16 developments as the US-Israel assault on Iran escalates. The report covers Iranian strikes on US bases including Al-Udeid, energy disruptions in Qatar, an Israeli strike on Iran's underground nuclear site, and broader regional actions such as a drone attack in Dubai and France deploying a carrier to the Mediterranean. The developments signal a deepening regional confrontation with potential implications for global energy flows.

iCar V23 Power Consumption Test Result on Mixed Routes: Equivalent to 87 km per litre

The iCar V23 was tested on a roughly 60-kilometre route combining tolled and urban roads, recording energy consumption of 13.9 kWh per 100 km. On highways with steady speeds, consumption fell to 10.2 kWh per 100 km, yielding a theoretical range of around 500 km on a full battery under the CLTC standard; real-world efficiency is highly sensitive to travel patterns and traffic conditions.

Truck breakdown causes traffic congestion on the Tangerang–Jakarta Toll Road towards Jakarta

An on-toll breakdown on the Tangerang–Jakarta Toll Road this morning caused significant congestion across several segments, including Karawaci KM22–Tangerang KM19 and Kunciran KM16–Kembangan KM08+800. Congestion also appeared around Kembangan KM07–Kebon Jeruk KM03+400, while TransJakarta reported delays on routes S11, S61, T11 and T12 due to the incident near rest area KM13 towards Jelambar.

Strengthening ESG, LPEI Teams Up with IIF – Pasardana

Indonesia Eximbank (LPEI) and PT Indonesia Infrastructure Finance (IIF) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation Agreement to deliver ESG consultancy, policy development, and risk management aligned with OECD standards. The collaboration includes ESG policy strengthening, environmental and social risk management, and carbon emissions management, and will organise ESG workshops on OECD standards for export credits and guarantees. The partnership aims to enhance the quality of export financing and boost the competitiveness and resilience of Indonesian firms in global markets, with IIF acting as a strategic advisor.

China's AI Arsenal That Alarms the West

A Foreign Affairs report, based on Georgetown University’s CSET research, reveals that China has integrated civil and military AI development to build an AI weapons arsenal. It highlights drone swarms and real-time battlefield adaptability, signaling a shift in future warfare and geopolitics.

Umrah Pilgrims Insist on Departing Amid Conflict, Blora Travel Director: If Cancelled, Only the Ticket Will Be Refunded

Amid government advisories to defer Umrah departures due to rising Middle East tensions, a Blora-based travel agency proceeds with a 33-pax group as scheduled, with 3 pilgrims opting to cancel. The decision involves a last-minute airline switch, potential cost increases, and limited refunds if cancellations occur, illustrating the clash between safety warnings, regulatory guidance, and service commitments.

Pramono Declares Sumber Waras Controversy Resolved, Ahok: The Truth Has Finally Emerged

The Jakarta governor asserts that the Sumber Waras land dispute has been resolved and passes a message to Ahok via Veronika Tan. Ahok responds with thanks and calls for public healthcare improvements, envisioning an international hospital on the site after years of controversy and a probe by the KPK that concluded no wrongdoing. The case originated in 2015, with investigations culminating in 2023–2025.

Middle East Conflict Heats Up, Indonesia's Energy Sector Is Put to the Test

Escalating tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, the United States and Israel threaten global energy supply chains. Indonesia's government and lawmakers are preparing mitigation measures to protect domestic fuel and LPG supplies, with Pertamina urged to act. Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says national fuel stocks remain safe for around 20 days, while warning of possible price adjustments due to geopolitical turmoil.

US Strikes 2,000 Targets in Iran, Claiming It Is Larger Than the 2003 Iraq Operation

The United States, alongside Israel, launched coordinated strikes against Iran, with US Central Command asserting around 2,000 targets hit and hundreds of Iranian missiles destroyed. The operation’s first 24 hours are described as larger in scale than the 2003 invasion of Iraq, as the campaign continues with 24/7 attacks. Iranian Red Crescent reports casualties have risen to at least 787, with thousands of strikes hitting over 150 cities and 500 sites.

Ali Khamenei Laid to Rest in Mashhad Following Death in US-Israel Attack

Ali Khamenei, Iran's former Supreme Leader, is to be buried in Mashhad after dying in a joint US-Israel strike on Tehran. The Iranian authorities have scheduled the burial in Mashhad, near his father's tomb in the Imam Reza complex, with a large farewell ceremony to be held in Tehran beforehand. The Assembly of Experts is to oversee the succession, with security considerations potentially delaying its final session.

Free cleft lip surgeries to curb cases in Indonesia

Indonesia continues to scale up free cleft lip surgery to address a high incidence of congenital cleft lip cases, with Smile Train Indonesia and Dentons HPRP leading the effort. The programme plans to expand nationwide, emphasising safe, early intervention and ongoing patient care, with around 7,000 surgeries funded annually and a target approaching 200,000 in total.

6,047 Umrah Pilgrims Return to Indonesia Safely

Indonesia says 6,047 Umrah pilgrims have returned safely over the past two days, with 4,200 on 28 February and 2,047 on 1 March, and 43,363 intending pilgrims still slated to depart before the Hajj. Kemenhaj emphasises safety and protection, coordinates with the Foreign Ministry, and has urged postponement of near-term Umrah departures amid Middle East tensions, while confirming Hajj preparations continue on schedule.

Civil Servant Posts Are No Longer Up for Grabs, BKN Chief: Must Align with Asta Cita

The head of Indonesia's National Civil Service Agency (BKN) says filling civil servant positions must align with organisational needs and the President's Asta Cita, with talent management matching officials to regional visions. The programme, reinforced by Decree No. 411 of 2025, requires use of the Talent Management Information System from 1 January 2026 and targets roles from department heads to unit leaders to ensure a professional, competent and integrity-rich civil service.

Wednesday, BMKG forecasts most cities to experience rain ranging from light to very heavy

BMKG has issued an early warning that many major Indonesian cities could experience rain from light to very heavy, potentially with lightning and strong winds, on Wednesday. Forecasters cite a convergence zone boosting raincloud formation offshore, with several cities highlighted as at risk, while three tropical cyclone disturbances around Indonesian waters are being monitored and the public urged to rely on official BMKG updates.

Prabowo Discusses BoP with Former Presidents: Indonesia Remains a Member

Prabowo Subianto told guests at a presidential palace dinner that Indonesia still holds membership of the Board of Peace (BoP), even as its initiator, the United States, pursues actions against Iran. He signalled openness to reevaluating Indonesia’s BoP membership in response to future developments with other countries, and the gathering also touched on the Iran conflict and related policy concerns raised by the Indonesian Ulema Council.

IHSG Continues to Weaken, Foreign Investors Sweep Up 10 Stocks

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) extended its decline, closing down 0.91% or 73.18 points at 7,943.65 on Tuesday, 3 March 2026. Foreign investors recorded substantial net purchases of Rp3.45 trillion across the entire market and Rp4.62 trillion in the negotiated and cash market, while also recording a jumbo net sale of Rp1.17 trillion in the regular market. Ten stocks were notably bought by foreigners, including BMRI, PTBA and ENRG.

Prabowo Discusses the US-Iran Conflict with Former Presidents and the Foreign Minister

Prabowo Subianto convened a closed meeting at Istana Merdeka with former presidents, the current and former foreign ministers, and leaders of parliamentary political parties to discuss the latest developments in the US-Israel conflict with Iran, and its implications for Indonesia and the global order. The discussions also covered the potential economic impact, including oil and gas supply, and Indonesia's future role on the Board of Peace, with Prabowo seeking input from national figures.

UK to stop issuing study visas for Myanmar, Afghanistan, Cameroon and Sudan

Britain will stop issuing education visas to nationals from Afghanistan, Cameroon, Myanmar and Sudan, and work visas for Afghans, as part of a broader clampdown on asylum seekers. The Home Office cites a surge in asylum applications from these countries, with student claims from them rising by more than 470% between 2021 and 2025 and about 135,000 asylum seekers entering via legal routes since 2021. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the moves are to prevent abuse of the system, and ministers point to a 20% fall in student asylum claims in 2025 though further action is needed as those arriving on study visas still make up around 13% of total claims.

Iranian drone strikes AWS data centres in the UAE, disrupting banking apps and transport

A drone attack damaged AWS data centres in the UAE (two in the UAE and one in Bahrain), triggering widespread disruption to transport, payments and banking apps. AWS urges customers to move workloads to another region as the incident coincides with heightened US–Iran tensions and volatility in energy markets.

Spain Refuses to Allow Its Military Bases to Be Used to Attack Iran, Trump Threatens to Sever Trade Ties

US President Donald Trump threatens to halt all trade with Spain after Madrid refuses to permit the United States to use its joint military base to attack Iran, amid escalating confrontations in the Middle East. Spain condemns the strikes as a violation of international law and reiterates its sovereignty over its bases, while Madrid insists it will not permit any activity that breaches the UN Charter. The dispute highlights friction between US policy and European allies over military intervention.

Manchester United's Bid for Malick Thiaw Disrupted by Liverpool

Manchester United and Liverpool are reportedly pursuing Malick Thiaw from Newcastle United in the 2026 summer transfer window, with United facing a defensive crisis due to injuries to Lisandro Martínez and Matthijs de Ligt, and Liverpool contending with contract issues surrounding Ibrahima Konaté. Thiaw, who joined Newcastle from AC Milan and has impressed with 39 appearances and five goals, is seen as a potential defensive leader; Newcastle’s ongoing project could complicate a move. Nevertheless, both clubs are described as having the financial wherewithal to press for the deal.

Angry TNI member threatens online taxi driver with pistol after minor collision

An online taxi driver was threatened with a pistol by a man later identified as a member of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) in Buaran, Serpong, South Tangerang, on Sunday night, after a minor road incident. The confrontation, filmed and circulated online, shows the suspect brandishing what appeared to be a firearm and injuring the driver, with the assailant demanding around Rp 900,000. The victim sought resolution at a police office but the suspect refused; authorities are investigating.

iPhone 17 Pro Max Already Widely Resold Despite Only Five Months Since Release

Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Max is already being widely resold in the United States, only around six months after its September 2025 release. SellCell data show it leads the top 20 trade-in phones, with trade-ins at 11.5% and most sales concentrated in newer devices. The report also notes depreciation, with iPhone 17 Pro Max resale value down 25.4% after 145 days, and compares it with greater depreciation for the iPhone 16 Pro Max.

Market monitors developments in the Iran–US conflict as IHSG poised to weaken

Pilarmas Investindo Sekuritas' Nico Demus cautions the IHSG could drift lower in Wednesday's trading, with technical support at 7,860 and resistance at 8,150. He notes sentiment remains negative amid escalating Iran–US–Israel tensions. Domestically, BEI and KSEI published ownership information for listed companies above 1%, while APNI expects a March 2026 ministerial regulation on the Nickel Ore Reference Price; European and US equities fell on Tuesday amid risk-off moves.

A Comprehensive Guide to Mudik by Electric Car: SPKLU, Sockets and Tariffs

Indonesia's SPKLU network is expanding, and EV users planning the Eid exodus should understand the charging options along their route. The piece outlines three socket types—AC charging, DC CHAdeMO, and DC CCS2—with varying compatibility and speeds, and explains how battery size and charger tech affect charging times, including fast and ultra-fast options for long-distance travel.

Makassar Teen Allegedly Shot by Police Who Dispersed Toy-Gun Brawl

An 18-year-old Makassar resident, Bertrand Eka Prasetyo, died after allegedly being shot by a police officer while authorities dispersed a brawl involving gel-ball toy weapons. The case has prompted internal investigations into the officer involved and drawn a strong response from LBH Makassar, who call for ethical and criminal sanctions and for accountability beyond mere ethics. The incident highlights concerns about police use of force and broader structural issues within the Indonesian National Police.

Yusril Proposes Consolidating Political Party Votes at the End of the Election to Prevent Wastage

Yusril Ihza Mahendra proposed consolidating party votes after elections to prevent wasted votes and to simplify the party system. He suggested small or non-threshold parties could merge after results to form a faction in the DPR, potentially reshaping Indonesian political influence.

UII Criticises Government's Stance on Middle East Conflict; BoP and ART Also Under Scrutiny

Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII) has issued an official statement criticising the Indonesian government's handling of tensions in the Middle East, urging condemnation of military actions and reaffirming commitment to sovereignty and multilateral diplomacy. The university also questions Indonesia's involvement in the Board of Peace (BoP) and the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) with the United States, and calls for transparency and a comprehensive review of public policy, police reform, and the Free Nutritious Meals Programme.

Portrait of Mass Grave of 160 Victims of US-Israel Attack on Iranian Primary School

Drone footage shows excavators digging graves in Minab, southern Iran, for victims of an attack on a girls' primary school, in what authorities describe as the deadliest strike so far in the US-Israel campaign against Iran. The US says it will not intentionally target schools; UNESCO and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai have condemned the attack as a potential war crime under international humanitarian law.

Five Facts in the Headless Sumatran Elephant Case Uncovered by Riau Police

The Riau Police have unravelled the headless Sumatran elephant case, arresting 15 suspects and placing three others on the wanted list, revealing a cross-provincial wildlife-trafficking network. The investigation uncovered a scheme involving funding, procurement of arms, and trading of ivory, with significant seizures and widespread collaboration across provinces.

Apple unveils MacBook Air M5, faster and with double the storage

Apple has launched the MacBook Air M5 in 13-inch and 15-inch models, powered by the M5 chip. Apple claims the device delivers substantially improved AI performance, with up to 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, and up to 4 TB of storage, plus enhanced AI features and on-device performance; internal tests show significant improvements in rendering, image processing, and web browsing compared with Intel-based Macs.

One Dead, Four Missing After Rain-Induced Lahar Flood on the Senowo River, Magelang

A rain-induced lahar flood on the Senowo River in Magelang has left one person dead and four missing, with authorities continuing search and rescue operations as more injuries are reported. The incident underscores the risks of intense rainfall in volcanic areas and the ongoing emergency response coordinated by BPBD, Basarnas, TNI/Polri, and volunteers.

Bocimi 3 Toll Opens for Mudik Traffic as Japek 2 Toll Opens for Return Traffic During Lebaran 2026

West Java Police’s Traffic Directorate says Bocimi 3 (6 km) will open for mudik during Lebaran 1447 Hijriah/2026 CE, while Japek 2 will open for return traffic. Openings will be decided based on traffic counts and situational needs, with coordination across police, toll authorities and regional stakeholders to support Ketupat security operations.

Market Reform Task Force to Be Formed Soon

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) announced that a cross‑agency joint decision is drafting to establish a Market Integrity Reform Task Force. The plan covers eight reform actions, including raising free float, UBO disclosure, broader investor-type disclosures, demutualisation of the Indonesia Stock Exchange, stronger enforcement and governance, and market deepening, with a commitment to timely implementation and alignment with foreign investor expectations.

UBS and Galeri24 gold prices on Pegadaian fall together on Wednesday morning

UBS and Galeri24 bullion prices on Pegadaian’s Sahabat Pegadaian site fell as of 07:00 WIB on Wednesday. UBS declined from Rp3,195,000 to Rp3,162,000 per gram, while Galeri24 declined from Rp3,173,000 to Rp3,146,000 per gram. The article also lists the current sell quantities and the full price tables for both brands, with Antam prices updated after 08:30 WIB.

Jakarta Mobile SIM Service Locations Today, 4 March 2026: Check Requirements and Fees

The Jakarta Traffic Directorate is operating a mobile SIM service at five locations on 4 March 2026 to extend active SIM A and SIM C. The service runs from 08:00 to 14:00 WIB and does not issue new licences; expired licences must be renewed at Satpas. Fees include a psychometric test (Rp100,000), an eye health check (Rp35,000) and SIM issuance (Rp125,000–Rp130,000). Direct renewals are also available at several Satpas.

Drone attack hits AWS data centres; UAE apps and banks disrupted

A drone attack on AWS data centres in the UAE and Bahrain disrupted banking and digital payments across the UAE, with services for Careem, Alaan, Hubpay, and several banks affected. AWS is continuing recovery efforts and urged relocation of workloads to alternative regions amid rising regional tensions and broader market jitters.

US Media Report: Iran's Retaliatory Attack Destroys CIA Station at U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia

Iranian drones destroyed the CIA station at the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh, in what Washington Post describes as part of Iran's retaliation for attacks launched from Saudi bases. The U.S. and Saudi authorities reportedly confirm two drones struck the embassy complex, with reports of roof damage and a collapse. The incident is framed as a symbolic victory for Iran as it targets U.S. personnel across the Middle East.

BNPB Targets Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction to Be Completed Within Three Years

BNPB says the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Sumatra's late-2025 disaster are targeted to be completed within three years. The plan is set in the National Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Reconstruction by Bappenas, with data locked as of 9 February 2026 and applicable across ministries. Central housing and donor assistance are underway in several areas, with parallel construction continuing and land-ready projects prioritised.

Energy Security Buffer Exceeds Standard, Bahlil: All Metrics Above 21 Days

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources says national energy resilience remains above the minimum safe threshold ahead of Lebaran 2026, with fuel oil, crude oil, and LPG provisions exceeding 21 days. Storage capacity sits around 25–26 days, with plans to reach three months under international standards, starting with new facilities in Sumatra after a feasibility study. Pertamina will operate 24/7 to safeguard supply amid rising mobility during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr.

Afraid of a Bleak Future, Many People Are Now Reluctant to Have Children

A psychologist from Ibunda.id says that the decline in Indonesia's birth rate reflects a shift in collective psychology driven by global concerns such as climate change, economic instability, and job competition, prompting many to delay parenthood. The piece highlights how anxiety and worries about the future are shaping decisions on starting a family, beyond economics or relationships.

THR for ASN, TNI, Polri and Retirees Begins Disbursement, Paid in Full at 100 Percent

The Indonesian government has begun disbursing the Hari Raya allowance (THR) for civil servants, the TNI, Polri, and retirees in stages since 26 February 2026, with no deductions and a full 100% payout across all allowance components. The government allocated Rp 55 trillion for THR this year, 10% more than 2025, and emphasised that THR is distinct from the 13th salary.

Hormuz Strait Closed, Indonesia to Buy Crude Oil from the United States

Indonesia's Energy Minister says the government is preparing for the worst-case scenario if the Middle East conflict remains unresolved, with 20-25% of crude supply historically sourced from the region at risk. To ensure supply, authorities may divert some Middle East crude to the United States if the Hormuz Strait remains closed indefinitely, while also diversifying fuel and LPG imports away from the Middle East.

BMKG: Jakarta Weather Today — Rain and Thick Clouds Across Parts of the City

Jakarta's weather today is forecast to feature light rain and thick cloud cover across most districts from morning to night, with thunderstorms possible in South and East Jakarta. By afternoon, rain and cloudy conditions will prevail with hazy spells in North Jakarta around late evening; residents and motorists are advised to stay alert for possible thunderstorms.

Purbaya Assures BBM Subsidies Will Not Bust the 2026 Budget Despite Iran War

Indonesia’s Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says simulations show a prolonged Middle East conflict linked to higher oil prices would not push the state budget (APBN) into a deficit due to BBM subsidies. He notes improving tax collection — January–February tax receipts rose 30% year-on-year — and outlines a 2026 subsidy ceiling of Rp210.06 trillion, up from 2025. If prices rise excessively, a recalibration would be considered.

Tawhid, Ramadan Fasting and Dental Health

An Indonesian article argues that Ramadan fasting is not only a spiritual obligation but a holistic practice rooted in Tawhid. It posits dental and oral health as integral to bodily stewardship, linking proper oral hygiene to uninterrupted worship and respectful communal conduct during Ramadan.

Ali Khamenei's Body to Be Buried in the Holy City of Mashhad, with a Major Ceremony Planned

Ali Khamenei, Iran's former Supreme Leader, has died in a joint US-Israeli attack on Tehran. His burial will take place in Mashhad—where his father is buried at the Imam Reza Shrine—after a large farewell ceremony in Tehran, with the date yet to be decided. The leadership will pass to a three-member caretaker council until the Assembly of Experts selects a replacement.

Jakarta Provincial Government Crackdown on Shadow Terminals Ahead of Lebaran 2026 Homecoming

Jakarta's provincial authorities will crack down on unofficial shadow terminals ahead of the Lebaran 2026 homecoming to steer travellers to official terminals, with a target of about 26,500 people to be dispatched via official transport and terminals, while allowing a few sanctioned points outside terminals such as Monas.

Rob Edwards hails Wolves' unwavering spirit after beating Liverpool

Rob Edwards praised Wolves' mental resilience after a dramatic 2-1 Premier League victory over Liverpool at Molineux, describing the win as the culmination of a mindset shift. He stressed the importance of staying in games and asked his players to replicate the performance to maintain momentum, with a FA Cup fifth-round tie to come.

Two Pertamina ships stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, Bahlil says diplomatic efforts underway

Indonesia is pursuing diplomatic channels to secure the release of two Pertamina International Shipping vessels stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, while preparing contingency plans for alternative crude supplies. The government also intends to redirect around 25% of Middle East crude imports to the United States as part of a broader energy trade agreement, reflecting Indonesia's energy security priorities amid geopolitical tensions. The minister cautions that the duration of the Middle East tensions is unpredictable and under continuous review.

Facts about the Giuseppe Garibaldi aircraft carrier

Indonesia's Navy is set to receive the Giuseppe Garibaldi as a government-to-government grant from Italy, with the vessel planned to operate as a flagship. The project requires around Rp 7.2 trillion for maintenance and modernization, and may involve Indonesian shipyards and select international partners for certain equipment. The move traces back to discussions during Prabowo Subianto's time as Defence Minister and aims to bolster the national defence industry.

That Noisy, Unpermitted Padel Court Has Been Sealed Again

The Fourthwall padel court in Cilandak has been sealed again by South Jakarta authorities after noise complaints from residents and a lack of building permits. Despite prior warnings and a temporary halt, construction and operations continued until January 2026, prompting renewed enforcement under Indonesian building and spatial planning regulations.

In Front of Anies, Pramono Boasts That Transport Access to JIS Has Become Easier

Jakarta's governor Pramono Anung Wibowo announces that transport access to Jakarta International Stadium (JIS) has become easier, citing a forthcoming KRL stop at JIS and an impending inauguration of the station in May. He notes a new Pedestrian Overpass (JPO) linking JIS to Ancol and ongoing commuter line infrastructure in Ancol, expected by April, to ease parking and boost attendance at events, with possible involvement of Anies Baswedan at the inauguration.

Coal prices surge 17%, hitting 14-month high

Coal prices jumped to USD 138 per tonne, the highest since November 2024, as tensions flare following Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The rise extends a two-day gain of 17.2%, with fears of gas supply shortages prompting utilities to switch from gas to coal; Asian buyers such as Pakistan, India and Bangladesh are expected to increase coal consumption in the near term, while China’s coking coal market softens ahead of the Two Sessions.

DWP Kemenag: Religious life must be lived with compassion

Helmi Halimatul Udhma of the Dharma Wanita Persatuan within the Ministry of Religious Affairs urged that religiosity be pursued with joy and compassion, as the foundation for forming santri who are resilient and well‑rounded. The remarks were made at the Takjil Pesantren event: Talkshow and Ngaji Bareng Santri, titled 'Beragama dengan Asyik', held on Tuesday 3 March at Pesantren Daarul Rahman in South Jakarta, emphasising that pesantren are spaces to shape a generation ready for modern developments and to cultivate leaders through iman, ilmu and akhlak.

KPK Auctions Innova Zenix, Gucci Shoes and Loewe Bag — Who Is Interested?

The Indonesian Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) announced an auction of seized assets including a Toyota Innova Zenix, Gucci shoes and a Loewe bag. The online auction will be held on 11 March 2026 via lelang.go.id, with bids closing at 10:00 WIB on that date. The items and their reserve prices were disclosed on the KPK's official Instagram account.

Bapanas Evaluates MinyaKita's HET Amid Global Palm Oil Price Surge, Here Is the Explanation

Bapanas is reviewing the possibility of adjusting MinyaKita's maximum retail price as global crude palm oil prices rise, impacting costs and supply stability. The plan remains at the proposal stage with producers yet to be summoned, and authorities stress price stability and protecting purchasing power.

270 Honda Prelude Units Booked in Indonesia as Distribution Begins in May 2026

Honda Prospect Motor has reported 270 bookings for the Honda Prelude ahead of its first deliveries in May 2026, with the allocation for Indonesia adjusted by advancing from 2027 to 2026. The Prelude is a fully built-up import from Japan with a price range of Rp925–975 million and a hybrid e:HEV powertrain, marketed as a daily sportscar with modern technology.

Strait of Hormuz Spooks Wall Street as Dow, Nasdaq and S&P 500 Fall Almost 1%

The major U.S. stock indices closed lower as tensions in the Middle East escalated, with the Dow dropping 403.51 points to 48,501.27, the S&P 500 down 0.94% to 6,816.63 and the Nasdaq down 1.02% to 22,516.69. The VIX rose to its highest close since November amid a surge in oil prices, while software shares rebounded, signalling mixed sentiment despite broad declines.

Involving Non-Parliamentary Parties in the Revision of the Election Law: Between Participation and the Limits of Rationality

The Indonesian DPR's Commission II plans to invite non-parliamentary parties to contribute to the draft revision of the Election Law, citing meaningful participation required by the Constitutional Court. The move draws criticism from PSI, which calls the idea irrational and states that lawmaking is the purview of the DPR and government, with public input better sought from citizens and civil society organisations.

Two Demonstrations in Jakarta Today, Crypto-Victim Protests Erupt

Two demonstrations were scheduled in Central Jakarta on Wednesday, with security tightened as police monitor crowds. The protests involve participants linked to Wahid Hasyim Law Firm & Partners and other groups; 541 police personnel were deployed and traffic diversions will be applied as needed. Authorities urged residents to avoid the protest areas and seek alternative routes to mitigate congestion.

Megawati's 2004 Tehran Visit: D-8 Diplomacy and Ideological Affinity

In February 2004, Megawati Sukarnoputri visited Tehran to attend the Fourth Summit of Developing-8 (D-8), advocating stronger trade connectivity to reduce dependence on the global financial system unfavourable to developing nations. A key meeting with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei highlighted shared commitments to global social justice and the legacy of Bung Karno, underscoring Indonesia's ability to engage with diverse geopolitical interests.

The Meaning of Al-Afuw in Asmaul Husna: Evidence, Virtues of Dhikr, and How to Practice It

The piece explains Al-Afuw, the attribute of total erasure of sins in Asmaul Husna, contrasts it with Al-Ghafur, cites Qur'anic verses and a hadith on Lailatul Qadar, and offers guidance on dhikr and forgiveness in daily life.

Gen Z Largely Abandons Smartphones, Many Switch to Replacement Phones

Gen Z is reportedly moving away from smartphones toward feature phones, a trend highlighted by US data and IDC projections. Indonesia's smartphone market improved in 2024 after a decline in 2023, while global shipments are expected to grow modestly in 2025 before a more robust foldable-phone upswing in 2026 as new models from Samsung, Huawei and Apple reshape the market. The development could have implications for consumer electronics demand, pricing and replacement cycles.

THR for 8,000 Part-Time PPPK in Bandung City: Mayor Farhan Cannot Promise They Will Receive It

Bandung Mayor Farhan says he will coordinate the holiday allowance (THR) for part-time PPPK workers but cannot promise payment yet, pending calculations and consultation with the Bandung City DPRD. He notes that THR remains for ASN, TNI, and Polri under existing rules, with PPPK numbering about 8,000 in the city. The focus is to keep performance by part-time PPPK intact while decisions are being made.

Catch up on the latest news about films, mobile phones and new cars

ANTARA's entertainment, lifestyle, technology, and automotive desk rounds up upcoming Lebaran film releases, a Harry Styles concert film on Netflix, mental health tips, and launches of new mobile phones and cars. The items highlight Indonesia's vibrant consumer media and tech markets during the Lebaran period.

Lebaran 2026 toll tariff discounts on 29 toll roads, note the dates

The government has announced toll tariff discounts of up to 30% for 29 toll roads as Lebaran 2026 policy, aimed at encouraging early travel and reducing peak-period congestion. The peak mudik (homecoming) traffic is forecast for 18 March 2026, with some toll roads operating on special schedules; the discounts form part of a Rp12.83 trillion economic stimulus.

Top National: Prabowo Invites Former Presidents, US Attack Stance

Prabowo Subianto hosted a high-profile gathering at the Presidential Palace inviting party leaders, former presidents, and business figures to discuss geopolitical issues. Notably, Megawati Soekarnoputri did not attend, and the piece raises questions about Prabowo's conduct in relation to the Iranian leadership's death and ongoing Middle East tensions.

Zerk Eyes CKD Production at Handal Factory as Demand Rises

Zeekr's premium models, the Zeekr 7X and Zeekr 009, attracted notable interest at the Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS) 2026, with market response expected to be strong ahead of full local launch. Geely Auto Indonesia plans CKD assembly to bolster price competitiveness and demonstrate domestic investment, potentially at PT Handal Indonesia Motor, thereby reinforcing Zeekr's position in Indonesia's evolving automotive ecosystem.

Six Things to Know About the KPK Sting on Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) conducted a sting operation in Pekalongan, Central Java, arresting Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq and two aides, with 11 people detained as the agency probes procurement processes and outsourcing in the Pekalongan Regency. Offices including the Regent’s and the Regional Secretary’s were sealed, and the investigation extends to outsourcing contracts in several agencies. Central Java’s governor commented on the case as a learning moment for public officials while the KPK continues its inquiries.

Pelni Bima forecasts Lebaran passenger traffic to rise 10 percent in 2026

Pelni's Bima branch forecasts Lebaran 2026 passenger traffic to rise by around 10% from last year, with the government offering a 30% discount on tickets across all routes. Six KM ferries will serve pilgrims departing from Bima Port, and there are no plans to add new ships; the discount runs from 11 March to 5 April 2026, via official Pelni channels.

Incorrect room temperature can trigger dry skin and acne.

Keeping the bedroom at the wrong temperature and low humidity can disrupt the skin's barrier and worsen conditions such as eczema or rosacea, while increasing acne risk. Dermatologists warn that heat raises sweat and oil production, and dry air can dehydrate the skin. A 2026 study found sebum rises after more than an hour in a 32-degree Celsius environment, underscoring the skincare implications of bedroom climate.

Bali Named World's Best Destination for 2026 by Tripadvisor

Bali has been named the world's best travel destination for 2026 by Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards, reflecting its enduring appeal among international visitors. The award highlights Bali's blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and diverse experiences—from beaches and wellness hubs in Ubud to sacred temples within the UNESCO Subak irrigation system—bolstering its status as a premier global tourism destination.

Pekalongan Regent Arrested in Sting Operation, Has Assets Worth Rp85.6 Billion

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq and several aides in Semarang in the early hours of 3 March 2026. LHKPN records show her wealth at Rp 85.6235 billion (gross Rp 88.8235 billion, debt Rp 3.2 billion, net Rp 85.6235 billion), with most assets in land and buildings across multiple cities. The case highlights ongoing scrutiny of wealth disclosures by public officials under Indonesia's asset disclosure regime.

Diplomatic Analysis: The Meaning of Megawati Soekarnoputri's Condolence Letter on the Death of Ayatollah Khamenei

Indonesia's former president Megawati Sukarnoputri sent an official condolence letter to Iran following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, delivered through Hasto Kristiyanto. The letter reaffirms Indonesia's Free and Active Foreign Policy, solidarity with Iran, and opposition to unilateral military aggression, amidMiddle East tensions and potential impacts on bilateral ties and commodity markets.

Prabowo: Indonesia Must Be Ready to Face the Impacts of the Middle East Conflict

President Prabowo Subianto has urged Indonesia to prepare for a range of possible developments arising from the escalating Middle East crisis involving Iran and the United States. The government is seeking to avert tensions through diplomacy and is preparing evacuation plans for Indonesian citizens abroad, while emphasising Indonesia’s role as a potential mediator.

THR for civil servants, PPPK, the TNI and the Polri disbursed: amounts and components

Indonesia's government began disbursing THR for ASN, including PPPK, TNI/Polri personnel, and retirees, on 26 February 2026, with a total budget of Rp55 trillion—about 10% higher than 2025. The funds are split across APBN and APBD to cover central, regional, and retiree beneficiaries, with the THR components paid in full, and THR is separate from the 13th salary. Recipients include a wide range of public servants and officials, with amounts adjusted by grade and years of service.

Bread and Shrimp Heads: The Secret to Harvesting Hundreds of Duck Eggs Daily

In Jakarta's Rorotan district, around 30 duck farmers have turned discarded bread and shrimp heads into a vital feed source, enabling hundreds of eggs to be produced daily from about 700 ducks. The initiative, led by the Rorotan Maju Bersama group, relies on buying bread waste by the kilogram and sourcing shrimp heads separately for protein, with earnings and costs outlined by farmer Mat Yasin. Farmers still face challenges in securing supply chains for bread and shrimp heads.

Ministry of Defence to Involve National Companies in Retrofit and Modernisation of Garibaldi Aircraft Carrier

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence intends to retrofit and modernise the former Italian Navy aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi domestically, with Indonesian shipyards and firms to be chosen through the standard procurement process. The ship is set to arrive ahead of the TNI anniversary, and maintenance and capability upgrades are budgeted at around Rp 7.2 trillion under a government-to-government grant from Italy, with the vessel to serve as a flagship in future operations.

Crypto Transactions Weaken as Global Prices Fall

Indonesia's financial regulator OJK reported January 2026 crypto asset transactions totalled Rp 29.24 trillion, down 10.5% from December's Rp 32.68 trillion, in line with global price declines. Despite the dip in turnover, consumer confidence in the digital asset ecosystem remains robust, with around 20.7 million digital asset traders; in February 2026 OJK approved 29 entities in the crypto trading ecosystem and issued written warnings to two operators for breaches of regulations.

Investment Strategy: Rising Risks Make Safe-Haven Investments a Favourite

Global pressures are testing investor portfolios in early 2026, with geopolitical tensions and high interest rates prompting risk-off sentiment and divergent asset performance. Gold has been the standout, with spot gold returning 10.6% MoM to the end of February 2026, while Antam gold rose 6.5% MoM. The piece underscores the appeal of safe-haven assets in the current environment.

Facts Behind Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq’s OTT Sting Operation, Sekda Also Detained

The KPK conducted a sting operation in Semarang early on Tuesday, arresting Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq and close aides, with 11 Pekalongan officials taken to Jakarta for questioning. The case, linked to procurement activities across multiple local departments, marks the seventh KPK OTT in 2026, underscoring ongoing anti-corruption efforts in Indonesian local government.

Market Alert: Gold Prices Slump 4% in a Day, Could They Still Rise?

Gold prices slumped on 3 March 2026, snapping a five-session rally as the dollar strengthened and expectations for a rate cut diminished amid rising inflation concerns and fears of a prolonged Middle East conflict. By 4 March 2026, prices had recovered slightly, but analysts warned the move could be temporary as safe-haven flows shift with geopolitical risk; year-to-date gains remain robust for gold and silver.

Apple Unveils M5 Pro and M5 Max Chips, AI Performance Four Times Faster

Apple has unveiled the M5 Pro and M5 Max, its latest professional laptop chips built on Fusion Architecture that links two 3-nanometre dies in a single SoC. The chips promise substantial performance gains for demanding workloads and on-device AI, with up to 18 CPU cores, a GPU up to 40 cores on the M5 Max, and unified memory up to 64 GB. Apple claims AI and graphics performance improvements over prior generations, including third-generation ray tracing support.

Closure of the Strait of Hormuz, Energy Analyst: Global Oil Prices Could Reach $100 a Barrel

An energy analyst warns that a potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz could severely disrupt global oil flows, including Iran's exports, risking retaliation and wider Gulf involvement. If such events unfold, markets price-in heightened risk and oil could rise above $100 a barrel, with LNG prices hitting new highs; the US and allies are expected to maintain naval escort to keep passages open.

MotoGP Begins to Feel the Impact of the US–Israel–Iran War

MotoGP teams are re-routing flights to cope with the US–Israel–Iran conflict after the Thailand opener, with Ducati-Lenovo and KTM reporting disruptions. Some personnel were chartered to Milan and the next race in Goiânia gives teams time to adjust; logistics and flight prices illustrate broader travel impacts.

Surya Paloh says Prabowo has constructive ideas on the Middle East conflict

Surya Paloh, NasDem chairman, said President Prabowo Subianto's response to the Middle East conflict is constructive, emphasising the importance of diplomatic engagement. He noted discussions at a meeting with Indonesia's president, former leaders, the vice president, and party chiefs, including Indonesia's involvement in the Board of Peace amid rising regional tensions.

Debt Collectors Attempt to Seize Car on Bandung Street; Victim Terrified and Immediately Called the Police

A video shows debt collectors cornering a driver in Bandung and demanding to check the vehicle, prompting the victim to call the police. The police arrived to find the debt collectors had dispersed; the incident highlights concerns over aggressive debt-collection practices in Indonesia.

Jakarta Weather Forecast Today, 4 March 2026: Prepare for Rain

BMKG forecasts mixed cloud and rainfall across Jakarta on Wednesday 4 March 2026, with morning cloud cover giving way to rain of varying intensity from midday to evening. South Jakarta and East Jakarta are highlighted for possible thunderstorms and lightning, with temperatures of 24-29°C and humidity around 91%.

BNPB hands over second-phase stimulus aid for damaged houses in West Sumatra disaster

The BNPB distributed the second phase of stimulus funds for repairing houses damaged by floods and landslides in West Sumatra, focusing on Tanah Datar and Pesisir Selatan. The grants total Rp5.215 billion to 229 households, with the government also emphasising ongoing efforts to relocate people into permanent housing (huntap) and related support.

Pekalongan corruption sting: KPK seals nine offices, six cars and Fadia Arafiq’s private businesses

The Indonesian anti‑corruption commission (KPK) sealed nine Pekalongan government offices and several private assets linked to Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq following an arrest on 3 March. The operation also involved sealing a private salon and restaurant and six cars at her official residence, with 11 officials arrested. The case has sparked debate on regional integrity and local political myths surrounding the area.

Trump in the Crosshairs as US-Israel War on Iran Brings Armageddon to America

An escalation in the US-Israel-Iran conflict is expected to push global energy prices higher, fuelling inflation and squeezing American households. Analysts warn Brent could rise further, lifting petrol and electricity costs and threatening consumer spending and GDP growth. The developing situation also complicates the policy outlook for the Federal Reserve and the Trump administration ahead of elections.

Judge says Marcella Santoso and Ary Bakri are case brokers, tainting the legal profession

Two Jakarta lawyers, Marcella Santoso and Ariyanto alias Ary Bakri, have been found guilty of engaging in case brokerage and money laundering in a bribery case involving a judge who granted acquittals to three crude palm oil companies. The court sentenced them to lengthy prison terms, ordered restitution, and noted that their actions undermine public trust in the judiciary.

Mobile SIM service available at five locations

Jakarta's traffic police have launched a Mobile Driving Licence (SIM) service at five sites across the capital, operating 08:00–14:00 WIB, to renew SIM A and SIM C. Document requirements include KTP and the original SIM with photocopy, the application form, and a health check; expired licences must be renewed at the Daan Mogot SATPAS. Renewal fees are Rp80,000 for SIM A and Rp75,000 for SIM C under Government Regulation No. 60/2016 on Non-Tax State Revenue (PNBP).

Former Constitutional Court Judge Emphasises Proportionality in Parliamentary Threshold

Former Constitutional Court judge Arief Hidayat argues that the parliamentary threshold must be proportionate, balancing government stability, party simplification, and decision-making efficiency while protecting voters' rights. He cites Constitutional Court Decision No. 116/PUU-XXI/2023 and urges consensus among state institutions to craft a proportional formula aligned with a shared vision.

Bapanas reviews MinyaKita price ceiling as global crude palm oil prices rise

Bapanas is studying a possible adjustment to the retail price ceiling for MinyaKita in response to rising global crude palm oil prices, aiming to stabilise supply and protect consumer purchasing power. The review considers global CPO price movements and domestic production, with Bulog distributing 35% of MinyaKita under the DM0 to keep prices around Rp15,700 per litre, while prices outside Bulog reach Rp17,000–Rp18,000 per litre.

Home Affairs Ministry asks local governments to safeguard commodity supply until Eid al-Fitr

Regional governments are urged to remain vigilant and safeguard market commodity supplies through Eid al-Fitr as inflation controls are tightened ahead of Ramadan 2026. Senior official Tomsi Tohir calls for proactive market monitoring and urges imitation of neighbouring regions' strategies to keep inflation uniform. He warns distributors against price manipulation and commends agencies for keeping staple prices below the Selling Price Reference, noting Ramadan prices are more affordable than last year.

Yusril Proposes Merging Party Votes at the End of the Election

Constitutional law expert and Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, has proposed that political parties merge their votes at the final stage of the electoral process to prevent vote wastage and help streamline the party system. The plan would allow parties that fail to meet thresholds or secure enough seats to form factions by collaborating after results are declared, potentially giving rise to new political forces.

Two Pertamina Tankers Stranded in the Strait of Hormuz

Two Pertamina International Shipping tankers remain stuck in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting the Indonesian government to pursue diplomatic channels to secure their exit. The government says it has prepared alternative crude sources outside the Strait of Hormuz and emphasises crew safety and asset protection as Pertamina monitors the situation.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Organises Pesantren Takjil to Promote a Joyful Spirit of Faith

Jakarta's Directorate of Pesantren at the Ministry of Religious Affairs staged the second Takjil Pesantren, combining a Talk Show and Ngaji with santri at Pesantren Daarul Rahman in South Jakarta. Under the theme 'Beragama dengan Asyik', the event seeks to strengthen the culture of religiosity within pesantren and encourage an approachable, technology-aware religious experience. Officials stressed that pesantren should balance study of faith with awareness of modern developments and that the state supports pesantren through forums and the Dana Abadi Pesantren, a fund for economic empowerment via business incubators.

Transjabodetabek Blok M–Soetta Set to Begin Operations Before Eid al-Fitr, Aiming at Air Passengers

The Jakarta provincial government is preparing to launch the Transjabodetabek route from Blok M to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, targeting air travellers. The service is planned to commence before Eid al-Fitr (Lebaran) 1447 H, with low-entry orange Metrotrans buses to simplify luggage handling. The route will stop at roadside points rather than BRT stops, running from Blok M via Jalan Jenderal Sudirman, Semanggi, and the MPR/DPR, before entering the toll road to the airport.

Surakarta Mayor Seeks Central Government to Grant Local Authorities Power to Intervene in SPPG; Zulhas: It Would Be Permissible If It Is Dangerous

The Mayor of Surakarta has urged the central government to issue rules granting local governments authority to intervene in the SPPG units within the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, arguing it is needed in certain situations to ensure MBG runs effectively. He wants formal delegation of tasks and powers to local agencies, including oversight of procurement and recipient data, and calls for a presidential regulation or similar rule. Zulhas commented that intervention would be permissible if risks justify it.

Pramono boasts to Anies that transport access to JIS is getting easier

Jakarta governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has told former Jakarta governor Anies Baswedan that transport access to Jakarta International Stadium (JIS) is now easier, with a planned final stop for the KRL and a May inauguration for the station. A pedestrian overpass (JPO) linking JIS to Ancol is under construction and due to be completed in June, alongside Commuter Line infrastructure in Ancol due by April. Pramono said these improvements will position JIS as Jakarta's future hub and facilitate attendance at events such as Jakarta's anniversary.

BRI KUR Table March 2026: Loans from Rp1 million to Rp100 million — what are the monthly instalments?

BRI's 2026 KUR loan schedule outlines instalment estimates for microbusiness loans ranging from Rp1 million to Rp40 million, helping applicants plan repayments according to their finances. It underscores the importance of checking the latest table to select the most suitable loan amount and tenor for your business.

Why Does Stress Make Us Keep Munching?

Stress-driven emotional eating is described, with three types of eating, and warning signs; expert Reisi Nurdiani from IPB University explains that emotional eating is driven by emotion rather than hunger, and that it is common among adolescents and young adults. The piece also notes the recommendation to seek psychological consultation if persistent.

Why Does Stress Make Us Keep Snacking?

Nutritionist Reisi Nurdiani of IPB University explains that emotional eating is driven by emotions rather than hunger, and can be triggered even by happiness. Warning signs include eating without hunger, poor portion control, craving only certain foods, and guilt after meals; she recommends consulting a psychologist if this occurs frequently. The article distinguishes three eating behaviours—emotional, external, and restrained—and notes emotional eating is most common among adolescents and early adults under pressure.

China to Convene Grand Meeting as War Heats Up, Stimulus to Save Indonesia?

Global markets wobbled as tensions in the Middle East affected energy and bond prices, while Indonesia prepared a broad Lebaran stimulus package to sustain consumption and growth in early 2026. Domestic disbursement of THR and related incentives, backed by a Rp55 trillion budget, are intended to shore up purchasing power ahead of Eid while external risks persist.

Middle East Conflict: Prabowo Stresses the Need to Anticipate Global Impacts

President Prabowo Subianto convened cross-generational political leaders to discuss how global dynamics, including the Middle East crisis, could affect Indonesia's stability and to outline anticipated steps. The talks touched on the BoP, possible mediation roles in the Iran–US tensions, and measures to bolster energy and food resilience, including evacuation plans for Indonesians abroad.

Tangsel Police to Facilitate Street Running Races

Tangsel police plan to facilitate street running during Ramadan to curb violence and illicit racing, centralising events on weekend nights and engaging KONI to spot athletic talent. The move aims to channel youth energy into positive activity while preserving traffic and public order, following measures by other regions such as Bogor and parts of Riau.

Locations of the Ministry of Transport's 2026 Free Mudik Validation Posts in Jabodetabek

Registration for the Ministry of Transport's 2026 Free Mudik programme has been open since 1 March, but applicants must also complete on-site validation at designated posts. The ministry has prepared 401 buses with a total capacity of 15,834 passengers for Mudik and return services, with online registration closing when quotas are filled and a mandatory validation within three days of booking. Validation posts operate 1–15 March 2026 at locations in Jakarta, Tangerang, Depok, and Bekasi, with destinations covering 34 cities across Sumatra and Java.

Details of Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq's arrest operation: from the regional secretary to the aide, all taken to the KPK

The Corruption Eradication Commission arrested Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq in an on-the-spot arrest operation in Semarang, Central Java, with several other officials; the case concerns outsourcing procurement across multiple local government departments, with investigations extending to Pekalongan. KPK has said it is conducting parallel checks in Pekalongan and Jakarta as part of the ongoing probe.

The Story Behind Tattoo Removal: A Youthful Trend That Makes It Hard to Get a Job

More than 200 people registered for free tattoo removal during Ramadan in East Jakarta, part of an annual Baznas programme via Baznas Jakarta Timur. The event highlights how youthful decisions can affect employment prospects, with participants recounting how tattoos hinder job applications and expressing relief at the free service.

15 Indonesian citizens in Iran seek evacuation, option via Azerbaijan

Fifteen Indonesian citizens in Tehran have expressed willingness to be evacuated amid escalating Middle East tensions. The plan would move them by road to Baku, Azerbaijan, for onward air travel back to Jakarta, subject to airspace closures and security conditions.

Here Are the 20 Preliminary Names of the OJK Chief Candidates

The Selection Committee for the Replacement of ADK Members of the Financial Services Authority (OJK) has announced the 20 candidates who passed the administrative screening, including paper assessments, on 4 March 2026. The list, published in Announcement Number Peng-2/Pansel-DKOJK/2026, details the applicants’ current roles. The successful candidates will advance to further assessment stages, including public input, background checks, health checks, and interviews.

THR Payments for Civil Servants in DKI Jakarta in Line with Central Government Directives

DKI Jakarta’s governor said THR payments for civil servants will follow central directives, and the province is ready to pay before or after Eid al-Fitr. The disbursement began on 26 February, with Rp20.2 trillion allocated to 4.3 million regional ASN and Rp12.7 trillion to 3.8 million retirees, and 2026 THR components will be paid in full (100%), including base salary and attached allowances.

Update on Khamenei's Funeral: Iran to Hold Large-Scale Farewell Ceremony

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has died at 86 after 36 years in power. He is to be buried in Mashhad, with Iran planning a large farewell ceremony in Tehran prior to the burial; a three-member Assembly of Experts is overseeing a transition until a new leader is chosen, amid reported attacks on the body's facilities.

Ahead of Khamenei's Funeral, Iran Prepares Large-Scale Ceremony

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is set to be buried in Mashhad, with a major farewell ceremony planned in Tehran before the funeral procession. A three-person transition council will temporarily run the state until the Assembly of Experts selects a new leader, amid security concerns and reports of attacks on its institutions.

Yesterday's Politics: Prabowo Invites Former Presidents and 100% THR for the TNI-Polri

President Prabowo Subianto invited several former presidents to a meeting at Istana Merdeka, with Jokowi expected to attend. International experts warned that Indonesia, as a member of the Board of Peace (BoP), must guard against conflicts of interest amid global tensions. Separately, the government confirmed that THR for civil servants, the TNI-Polri, and retirees will be disbursed in full, with a total budget of around Rp55 trillion for 10.5 million recipients.

Government Has Not Yet Decided on Fuel Price Rise

Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, said the government is monitoring geopolitics and potential energy price shocks from the US-Israel-Iran tensions, including the Hormuz Strait closure. Policy responses will depend on how the conflict evolves and energy prices, with possible actions on fuel and subsidised LPG if costs rise; Pertamina has MoU arrangements to secure aviation fuel imports, while the country remains secure.

This Year Honda to Launch Three Electrification Models in Indonesia

Honda Prospect Motor will launch three electrification models in Indonesia in 2026 — two hybrids and one BEV — as part of a staged electrification strategy, with hybrids as the focus. The company targets net-zero emissions for vehicles by 2040 and for the group by 2050, and has already refreshed four models in early 2026 while the BEV model remains unconfirmed, with potential options including the Super One or Brio electric.

Former Foreign Minister warns Indonesia must be accepted by Iran and the US if it wants to be a mediator

Former Indonesian foreign minister Hassan Wirajuda says Indonesia can only serve as a mediator if it is accepted by both Iran and the United States, but there are currently no signs of such acceptance. The discussion at the Presidential Palace covered the escalating Iran–Israel conflict, with President Prabowo briefing on global developments and concerns about the weakening influence of the United Nations. The meeting also examined potential implications for Indonesia’s role in international bodies, and was attended by former presidents, senior officials, and business leaders.

Prabowo Still Firm on Serving as Mediator Between Iran and the United States

Indonesia’s Foreign Minister said President Prabowo Subianto is ready to mediate between Iran and the United States if both sides wish to engage, though any move depends on their will. Iran’s envoy in Jakarta said no concrete steps have been taken yet, but that dialogue could be possible; Indonesia has signalled willingness to facilitate diplomacy to ease tensions amid broader Middle East volatility.

US Defence Secretary Describes Islam's Prophethood as Delusional, Citing It as Justification for Attacking Iran

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth describes Islam’s prophethood as delusional and frames it as justification for striking Iran, while defending a major air operation ordered by President Donald Trump. The remarks drew condemnation from CAIR and sparked debate over religious rhetoric in geopolitics, highlighting the use of religious framing in US-Iran tensions.

Finance Minister Purbaya: Oil Price at US$92 Still Manageable, APBN Deficit Can Be Contained

Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says a surge in global oil prices to US$92 per barrel would not derail the country's fiscal outlook. He warned that further shocks from Iran-related tensions could test the APBN deficit, but pledged that revenue collection and anti-leakage measures should keep the deficit under control, with domestic demand still underpinning the economy.

Scenes of Tehran's Destruction as US-Israel Strike Nearly Levelled It to the Ground

An airstrike by the United States and Israel against a Tehran police building left the structure largely demolished and debris filling surrounding streets. Tehran's state media claimed the attack killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, sparking anger and vows of retaliation as Tehran seeks to strike Israeli and American assets across the Gulf. The wider conflict appears to be expanding, with Israel reportedly attacking Lebanon in response to Hezbollah actions and regional escalation intensifying.

M Toha: A Mining Permit for the Life of the Reserves Minimises Investment Risk - Kompas.id

Indonesia and Freeport-McMoRan secured certainty on the extension of PT Freeport Indonesia's IUPK from 2041 to the life of copper reserves, in return for Indonesia gaining an additional 12 per cent stake in 2041. The arrangement, rooted in the government's downstream policy (hilirisasi), maintains a mechanism for 10‑year evaluations to uphold good mining practices, environmental safeguards and sovereign rights, prompting discussion on long-term investment implications.

Foreign Minister Sugiono Reaches Out to Iran and the United States on Prabowo’s Readiness to Mediate — What Are the Results?

Indonesia's Foreign Minister Sugiono says he has discussed President Prabowo Subianto's readiness to mediate between Iran and the United States with both sides, but neither has yet made a firm commitment. Iran and the United States want to monitor developments, and Indonesia emphasises its role as a potential bridge contingent on mutual willingness.

[POPULAR AUTOMOTIVE] One Way and Odd-Even, Peak of Mudik Traffic

Indonesia's government has issued a joint decree formalising One Way and Odd-Even traffic rules for the Lebaran mudik period in 2026, with Category C driving licences (SIM C) mandatory for motorcyclists. Officials predict the mudik peak will come in two waves due to Idul Fitri coinciding with Nyepi, and Pertamina's Mudik Bareng 2026 programme has opened registration. The report also features a rare Yamaha 125ZR at YR2Stroke Garage, now among the most expensive bikes in Indonesia.

DPR Commission IX Calls for Evacuation of Indonesian Migrant Workers If US–Israel–Iran War Worsens

Indonesian lawmakers urged the government to protect Indonesian migrant workers in West Asia amid escalating clashes between the US, Israel and Iran, calling for proactive diplomatic coordination and potential evacuation plans. They pressed KP2MI and Kemlu to coordinate with embassies, register workers, and advise them to seek shelter, with further action if the situation deteriorates.

Mataram City Government Prepares Rp20 Billion for ASN Eid Al-Fitr Allowance

The Mataram City Government is budgeting Rp20 billion from the 2026 APBD to pay the Eid al-Fitr allowance (THR) for civil servants (ASN). Disbursement is pending PMK issuance, with funds to cover March THR and January-February TPP; timing remains uncertain until PMK is issued.

Tropical Cyclone 90S Looms Off Southern Java; East Java Enters Red Zone for Very Heavy Rain on Wednesday 4 March 2026

East Java faces the threat of heavy to very heavy rainfall on 4 March 2026 as Tropical Cyclone 90S interacts with atmospheric disturbances; 38 districts are advised to stay vigilant. Authorities urge monitoring via the Info BMKG app, caution against outdoor activity during heavy clouds, and warn of rough seas and high waves in the southern Java Sea.

Gaslighting and Excessive Control: Red Flags in Relationships That Should Not Be Ignored

Psychiatrist Dr. Lahargo Kembaren warns that red flags in relationships—such as belittling, manipulation and excessive control—often emerge early, particularly among young people who stay in unhealthy relationships. The piece explains how gaslighting and jealousy erode self‑confidence and argues that healthy relationships are built on safety, growth, and mutual respect, with problems discussed calmly rather than used to pressure a partner.

Parit Baru Village Slum Area Redevelopment Budget of Rp 7.33 Billion

The Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas is funding the redevelopment of a 19.92-hectare slum in Parit Baru, West Kalimantan, with a contract worth Rp 7.33 billion. The works include roads, drainage, waste management, fire protection and water connections, and are 87% complete with completion targeted for March 15, 2026. The project underscores a broader push to improve living standards, with calls for data reconciliation on substandard housing and local community involvement.

Five Natural Spots Suitable for Trail Running Near Jakarta

West Java offers five accessible trail running locations near Jakarta, including Cikuray and Papandayan, featuring long ascents, technical terrains, and spectacular sulphur crater views. The routes challenge navigation and endurance while rewarding runners with panoramic mountain scenery and lush forests.

President Prabowo Meets Jokowi-SBY at the State Palace, What's Happening?

President Prabowo hosted a gathering at Istana Merdeka that brought together Jokowi and former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, along with other former leaders, to discuss the current geopolitical situation. He stressed that government objectives remain focused on national interests and resilience in food, energy, and jobs, highlighting long-term stockpiles and self-sufficiency across sectors amid global dynamics.

Most areas of Jakarta to experience rain on Wednesday afternoon

BMKG forecasts widespread rainfall across Jakarta on Wednesday afternoon to evening, with initial cloud cover in several city districts and thunder in the North Jakarta area. The agency expects rain to persist into the night in multiple zones, with Kepulauan Seribu also experiencing afternoon showers.

Landslide Hits the Trenggalek-Ponorogo Road, Access Completely Blocked

A landslide on the Trenggalek–Ponorogo National Road in East Java has completely blocked the route, with large rocks covering the carriageway at Nglinggis, Trenggalek. No casualties have been reported; authorities are coordinating with BBPJN to clear the debris using heavy equipment, with arrival expected by midnight WIB. Motorists are advised to divert to alternate routes to avoid severe congestion.

Agriculture Minister says zero tariffs to the US are a golden opportunity for Indonesia's agricultural exports

Indonesia's Minister of Agriculture, Andi Amran Sulaiman, says zero tariffs for Indonesian agricultural commodities under reciprocal trade arrangements with the United States could significantly boost exports, with 53 commodities covered and key products like cocoa, crude palm oil (CPO), and rubber set to benefit. The policy aims to improve access to the US market, tapping Indonesia's already substantial CPO shipments, around 1.7 million tonnes.

Extreme Weather Alert: BMKG Detects Three Tropical Cyclone Disturbances Near Indonesia

BMKG has issued an early warning for possible extreme weather on 4 March 2026 after detecting three tropical cyclone seeds within its monitoring area. The systems are forecast to trigger heavy to very heavy rainfall across multiple provinces and major cities, with potential disruptions to Lebaran travel, prompting heightened public readiness. The agency also detailed city-level forecasts and urged vigilance for thunderstorm and strong winds.

Government to Evacuate 15 Indonesian Citizens from Iran

Indonesia's foreign minister said the government will evacuate 15 Indonesian citizens from Tehran, with logistics and health checks to be assessed before any operation; not all Indonesians in the Middle East want to return, but the government will arrange evacuation for those who wish to come home, amid escalating Middle East hostilities.

Yesterday’s Legal News: Pekalongan Regent Arrested in KPK Sting Operation to Deputy Human Rights Minister Stranded in Doha

The day’s legal news includes the KPK’s sting operation arrest of Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq during Ramadan, a show of concern from the Central Java governor over the case, NTB police revealing abuse by a pondok pesantren leader, the Deputy Minister for Human Rights stranded in Doha urging calm, and Bali Immigration issuing emergency residence permits for foreigners affected by the Middle East conflict.

Investigation Reveals US and Israel Deliberately Bombed Iranian Primary School, Killing Hundreds of Students

Al Jazeera's decade-long satellite analysis disputes US and Israeli claims there was no civilian facility on the site, showing the Shajareh Tayyebeh Primary School in Minab has been separated from a nearby military base for more than ten years. The report describes a highly precise strike pattern and raises questions about deliberate targeting and intelligence failures, while noting attempts at disinformation blaming an Iranian air-defence failure.

Bahar bin Smith assault victim rejects settlement, calls for immediate detention of suspects

The victim of Bahar bin Smith’s assault rejects restorative justice and wants the case to proceed to court, demanding the detention of the suspects including Bahar bin Smith. The victim’s lawyer argues the offences are crimes against public order, meaning RJ is inapplicable, and calls for swift action by investigators; Bahar bin Smith’s counsel has filed for restorative justice as part of a broader mediation effort, with a video apology issued.

Indonesian MP: Killing Khamenei Violates International Law

An Indonesian MP from PKB condemned the US–Israel strike that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, describing it as murder of a head of state and a grave breach of international law. He urged the United Nations to take decisive action against Israel and the United States, warning that such actions undermine international law and global peace as tensions in the Middle East escalate.

Building Cleaner Dies in Surabaya; Six Witnesses Questioned

A building cleaner died in Surabaya after being knocked from a gondola during a storm at Waterplace Residence. Police have questioned six witnesses as part of the investigation into the fatal workplace accident, with the building management pledging cooperation with authorities and assistance with the evacuation response.

Middle East conflict intensifies, Indonesia prepares evacuation of Indonesian citizens from Iran

Indonesia is preparing to evacuate Indonesian nationals from Iran amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Foreign Minister Sugiono said evacuation steps will be carried out in phases if there are nationals wishing to leave, and the government is ready to engage diplomatically, potentially in a mediator role for peace talks. President Prabowo has urged vigilance and proactive diplomacy while the authorities reassess security arrangements.

Thousands Attend Funeral for 175 Students Killed in Israeli Bombing in Iran

Thousands of mourners gathered in Minab, southern Iran, on Tuesday for the funerals of at least 175 people, many of them students at a girls’ school, killed in an Israeli air strike last Saturday. The attack is described as among the deadliest in the US-Israeli campaign against Iran, with Iran reporting more than 700 deaths and promising retaliation; Washington says CENTCOM is examining reports of civilian casualties.

Selection Panel Announces 20 Names That Passed Administrative Screening for OJK ADK Candidates

The Selection Panel for the replacement of OJK board members has announced the 20 candidates who passed the administrative stage, including a paper assessment. The list comprises professionals from the Ministry of Finance, Bank Indonesia, LPS, OJK, and Danantara Indonesia, and the next steps include public input, background checks, health checks, assessments and interviews, with a possibility of disqualification for non-participation in stages.

Jokowi and Gibran Return Home by Car After Meeting at the Presidential Palace

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka left the Presidential Palace in Jakarta with his father, former President Joko Widodo, after accompanying President Prabowo Subianto to a national dinner. The gathering, which began at 19:30 local time, included former leaders, a former foreign minister, and senior chairs of political parties in parliament, and lasted about 3.5 hours. Jokowi and Gibran departed Merdeka Palace in the same car after greetings with Ma'ruf Amin, with Jokowi's aide taking the front seat.

Jakarta Yesterday: Cap Go Meh Festival and Inauguration of the Heritage Flag Park

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo announced that the Heritage Flag Park in South Jakarta will be inaugurated on 14 March 2026, aiming to provide a new public space for sport and recreation. The day’s briefing also covers Cap Go Meh activities in Glodok with 14 MSMEs, plans for a Chinese Peranakan Museum in Glodok, and updates on train ticket cancellations and hotel occupancy in January 2026.

Buzzer Boss and Former JAK TV Director Acquitted of Obstruction of Investigation

Two figures linked to JAK TV—the head of a buzzer team and the former Director of News—were acquitted of charges alleging obstruction of investigations into corruption cases. The Jakarta Corruption Court ruled their actions were acts of freedom of expression and journalistic activity, with no proven malicious intent to hinder prosecutions, though buzzer activity was discussed as democratic ethics. The case highlights tensions between media activity and anti-corruption enforcement.

Yesterday's crime roundup: Baby found in nasi uduk cart to drug trafficking

A two-day-old baby girl was found abandoned in a nasi uduk cart in Pasar Minggu, South Jakarta. In separate developments, the Metro Jaya Police confirmed a KPK report against a former Supreme Court secretary, and the Jakpus Police disclosed a major drug-trafficking operation, with 13 suspects and 109.8 kg of meth seized. The Jakarta Selatan District Court is set to hear the KPK's response in the pretrial involving former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas on 4 March 2026, with another case of domestic violence reported in Koja.

Pakistani couple murdered in Bogor; bodies dumped in Bandung Barat

A Pakistani-origin couple were found dead in a silver Grand Max van in Bogor, with multiple stab wounds; their bodies were later discovered dumped in Padalarang, Bandung Barat. Police detained two suspects within 24 hours who were close to the couple, with investigators saying a grievance over treatment spurred the attack; autopsies have been ordered.

Boom! Iran’s missiles strike the United States’ largest military base, Al-Udeid

Two Iranian ballistic missiles were launched at Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, with one intercepted and the other hitting the base. Qatar’s defence ministry confirmed the strike and said there were no casualties. The incident comes as Tehran targets US- and Israel-linked facilities across the Gulf, with QatarEnergy later halting some downstream LNG and related production.

Why Does Weight Keep Rising During Ramadan? Common Occurrences at Iftar

Many people feel they've eaten enough at iftar, but calories can still exceed daily needs due to sugary drinks, sweets, and fried foods. Dr Ida Gunawan explains that the belief that fasting reduces sugar requirements is a misconception and recommends natural sugars from dates or unsweetened fruit juice instead of sugar-laden treats. She also notes that overindulgence and dehydration can cause discomfort, underscoring the need to schedule meals carefully to avoid continually increasing intake.

Foreign Minister Says BoP Talks Put On Hold After US–Israel Attacks on Iran

Foreign Minister Sugiono said BoP discussions are on hold as tensions in the Middle East escalate after US–Israel strikes on Iran; Gulf BoP members are affected and President Prabowo Subianto has consulted Gulf leaders. A coalition of academics and activists has petitioned Indonesia to withdraw from BoP, proposing to rename it Board of War.

Apple Unveils MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max Chips, AI Four Times Faster

Apple has unveiled the latest MacBook Pro line in 14‑inch and 16‑inch models powered by the M5 Pro and M5 Max. The updates promise major performance gains, including AI processing up to four times faster than the M4 generation, with up to 128 GB memory and faster SSDs, plus Wi‑Fi 7, Bluetooth 6 and longer battery life.

KSPSI and KSBSI reaffirm support for all of President Prabowo's programmes

Labour unions KSPSI and KSBSI pledge full support for all of President Prabowo Subianto's programmes, citing his pro-labour stance and responsiveness to workers' concerns. The remarks followed a meeting with Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, and the unions said they would continue to monitor and support the administration's pro-people agenda.

Bahlil: BBM Stock Capacity to Rise from 25 Days to 90 Days

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said Indonesia plans to raise national BBM storage capacity from about 25–26 days to 90 days to bolster energy resilience amid global geopolitical tensions. A feasibility study is underway, with construction targeted to begin in 2026 in Sumatra, and current stocks are reportedly above the national minimum.

SiCepat Supports National Logistics Through Expansion into International Markets

SiCepat Ekspres Indonesia announces expansion into the B2B segment, retail network, and international delivery to boost national logistics and meet domestic and global demand. The group also unveils a new CEO and management team to steer a transformative phase, with a 25% revenue target for this year alongside growth in international services.

Buzzer in Obstruction of Investigation Case Involving the Attorney General's Office Acquitted

Adhiya Muzzaki, a buzzer implicated in an obstruction of investigation case handled by the Attorney General's Office, has been acquitted due to insufficient evidence. The judge ordered his immediate release from detention and restoration of his rights, noting that payments received were used for personal needs and to remunerate buzzers, and that the case should be tried in a general criminal court rather than a dedicated corruption court.

Prabowo Brings Together Ex-Presidents and Party Leaders: What Was Discussed?

President Prabowo Subianto convened a high-level gathering at the Istana in Jakarta with former presidents, ex-foreign ministers and party leaders to discuss geopolitics, energy readiness and other national issues. The meeting, lasting around three and a half hours, underscored cross-party alignment on Indonesia's external and energy policy, with emphasis on preparing for global dynamics and safeguarding the country.

Gold Price Today (4 March) Remains at Rp 3.122 Million, Check the List

Antam's gold price remained at Rp 3.122 million per gram as of 04:30 WIB on 4 March 2026, unchanged from the previous day after a Rp 13,000 correction from Rp 3.135 million on 3 March. The data come from Logam Mulia's official page, and Antam bullion is available in weights from 0.5 g to 1,000 g, with PPh 22 buyback tax rules applying to sales above Rp 10 million.

Ramadan and Our Test of Sensitivity

The article frames Ramadan as both a spiritual practice and a social test of sensitivity to inequality in Indonesia. It argues that fasting reveals structural vulnerabilities and demands structural public policies and social protections, not merely charitable acts, drawing on thinkers such as Amartya Sen, Hans Jonas, and Fazlur Rahman.

Prabowo Discusses Iran–US War, Indonesia on Alert to Assess Energy Impacts

Indonesia discusses the Iran–US conflict and its potential energy security implications, weighing scenarios from supply disruption to a prolonged war, and considering Indonesia’s role in regional stability amid a fragile, rules-based order.

The Story of a Retired TNI Officer Who Switched Careers to Duck Farming, Earning Tens of Millions of Rupiah a Month

Purba, a 60-year-old retiree from the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), has become a duck farmer in Rorotan, North Jakarta, pulling in around Rp12 million a month from egg sales. He rents land for the operation and is part of Kelompok Rorotan Maju Bersama, a cooperative of 29 livestock farmers. He says duck farming supports food security and keeps him active in retirement, with income dependent on his diligence.

Prabowo Discusses Iran–US–Israel Conflict as He Convenes Former Presidents, Vice Presidents and the Indonesian Foreign Minister

President Prabowo Subianto used a gathering of former presidents, vice presidents and the Indonesian foreign minister to discuss the escalating Iran–Israel–United States dispute in the Middle East, noting concerns over the waning effectiveness of the global order and possible economic impacts for Indonesia. The meeting also examined Indonesia's position on the Board of Peace amid regional tensions and stressed the importance of open dialogue with national figures.

Mendikdasmen Submits Rp181 Trillion Additional Education Budget, Not for MBG

Indonesia's Minister of Education, Abdul Mu'ti, says the ministry has submitted a Rp181 trillion Anggaran Belanja Tambahan (ABT) to the DPR, explicitly excluding MBG funding. The ABT priorities include revitalising 20,000 educational units and a digitalisation drive, including the distribution of Interaktif Flat Panels across more than 325,000 educational units in 2026. The ministry also highlights MBG's integral role in its character-education programme, noting current coverage of about 93% of students.

The Shrinking Economic Impact of Wars Worldwide

The article argues that while global interdependence grows, wars—illustrated by Middle East tensions—could still strain Indonesia's economy via higher energy subsidies, inflation, and a weaker rupiah. It warns that the closure of the Hormuz Strait could send global oil prices soaring, forcing revisions to the 2026 budget and prompting proactive fiscal adaptation to cushion the economy.

Higher Education and Intellectualism

Indonesia’s higher education sector numbers roughly 4,200 institutions, with former minister Mohamad Nasir once proposing a reduction to address over-capacity. Despite changes in ministers, capacity remains stagnant and policy has swung between Merdeka Belajar and Kampus Berdampak, raising concerns that massification risks neglecting the formation of character and a deeper philosophical basis for education. The article argues for restoring a robust philosophical underpinning, drawing on Kant and Edward Shils, to guide higher education beyond market-driven vocations.

Indonesian Residents' Pinjol and PayLater Debt Tops Rp 125 Trillion, Which Is Higher?

Indonesian authorities report that citizens' debt to online lending platforms (pinjol) and PayLater BNPL reached Rp 125.64 trillion in January 2026. Outstanding pinjol financing rose to Rp 98.54 trillion, up 25.5% year on year, while PayLater baki debet stood at Rp 27.1 trillion, with about 31.23 million BNPL accounts. Despite solid growth, BNPL's share of bank lending remains modest at 0.32%.

Why People Buy Zamzam Water at Tanah Abang Market: From Souvenir to Personal Use

At Tanah Abang Market in Central Jakarta, five-litre Zamzam water bottles fetch Rp 350,000–Rp 400,000 per gallon. Buyers include pilgrims returning from Umrah as well as locals who consume it for personal use; price differences between stalls influence purchasing decisions. The market offers convenient access and stock without waiting for the Hajj season.

Does India's new AI model live up to claims of rivalling China's DeepSeek? CNA puts it to the test

India's Sarvam AI unveiled a 105‑billion‑parameter model at the India AI Impact Summit, claiming it can rival DeepSeek while activating around 9 billion parameters per prompt to cut compute costs. CNA's tests found the model's weights are not public and independent verification is needed; analysts cautioned that the architecture is not new beyond Mixture of Experts and that a real breakthrough requires open benchmarking. The project benefited from government GPU access under MeitY's IndiaAI Mission, enabling development on a large cluster.

DeepSeek power, but at lower cost? India’s new AI model prompts scrutiny, scepticism

India’s Sarvam AI unveiled a 105-billion-parameter model claiming only ~9 billion active parameters per prompt, promising substantially lower compute costs and enabling local deployment. Analysts and rivals urge caution, noting lack of open weights and the need for independent verification; the claim follows government GPU support via the IndiaAI Mission and prompts broader questions about India’s ability to produce a global frontier LLM. The event also featured other Indian firms launching models, though Sarvam’s is the most ambitious.

Those Whose Lives Are Always Hard

An Indonesian reflection draws on Qur'anic verses to argue that greed, pride, and disbelief in the Day of Judgement lead to a life of misery, while Ramadan invites closer closeness to Allah and neighbourly harmony. The piece stresses that material wealth without virtuous conduct yields little true wealth, urging humility and good neighbourliness as moral safeguards.

Surya Paloh Reveals Prabowo's Stance on Iran and Palestine Conflict

Surya Paloh says Prabowo Subianto reaffirmed Indonesia’s free and active foreign policy amid the Iran conflict, emphasising Indonesia’s non-aligned stance and empathy for Palestine. The discussion covered Indonesia’s Board of Peace membership, possible mediation, and the balance of diplomacy, with no current change in policy. The NasDem chairman also addressed internal party considerations and ethics in politics.

Harga Minyak Bisa Naik, Menkeu Sebut Ekonomi RI masih Aman Setahun

Indonesia's finance minister says the economy is resilient for up to a year even if oil prices rise amid a widening Iran-US-Israel conflict, supported by improved tax collection and a stronger APBN. He notes the government could shift some crude imports to the United States and warns that extreme price shocks would require recalculation.

Iran–US–Israel conflict delays Filis developers' plans for new projects

The escalation of tensions between Iran, the United States and Israel prompts caution in Indonesia's property sector. Colliers Indonesia warns that negative sentiment could dampen demand, leading developers to delay launches and focus on selling existing stock, while projects already under construction proceed to protect cash flow.

Young Couples Need Mature Readiness Before Having Children

Rising living costs and abundant information on parenting are driving modern Indonesian couples to prioritise quality over quantity when planning a family. Psychologists highlight that having children is now seen as a serious commitment requiring both financial readiness and mental well-being, prompting many to stabilise themselves before starting a family.

Iran's Strategy to Prevail in the War Against the US and Israel

The article analyses Iran's shift to a more aggressive, offensive posture after the 12-day June 2025 conflict, detailing the dual military structure of Artesh and IRGC, the use of drones and ballistic missiles, and the potential for a prolonged, costly confrontation with the US and Israel. It also discusses sanctions, domestic fragility, and the strategic debate among analysts on the efficacy of Tehran's approach.

CPO Export Corruption Case: Ariyanto Bakri Sentenced to 16 Years’ Imprisonment

Two defendants in a bribery case linked to a ruling to drop charges in a corruption investigation into crude palm oil (CPO) export facilities were in Jakarta's Corruption Court. Ariyanto Bakri received 16 years' imprisonment plus a Rp600 million fine (subsidiary 150 days), while co-defendant Marcella Santoso was sentenced to 14 years' imprisonment with the same fine and subsidiary term.

Lawyer Junaedi Acquitted in Bribery and Obstruction of Justice Case Involving Judges

A Jakarta Anti-Corruption Court has acquitted lawyer Junaedi of bribery charges relating to alleged payments to a judge presiding over cases involving Permata Hijau Group, Wilmar Group and Musim Mas Group in the 2022 crude palm oil export corruption matter. The court also voided a Prosecution request to dismiss him from Universitas Indonesia, and acquitted him on obstruction of justice charges; the Prosecution's allegations of ‘meeting of minds’ and manipulation were not proven beyond reasonable doubt.

Trump Orders US Navy to Escort Oil Tankers Through the Strait of Hormuz

President Donald Trump announced that the US Navy would escort oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz as tensions with Iran intensify and Tehran threatens to close the strait. He also directed the United States Development Finance Corporation to provide insurance and financial guarantees for maritime trade in the Gulf. The development comes amid fears of a global energy disruption and signals potential implications for Indonesia and other energy-importing nations.

Prabowo to Convene National Geopolitics Discussion, Invite Former Presidents and Former Vice-Presidents

President Prabowo Subianto convened a national discussion forum on geopolitics, inviting cross-generational leaders and political party chiefs to address the evolving global geopolitical landscape. The meeting, held for about 3.5 hours at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Tuesday evening (3 March), emphasised national unity and readiness amid escalating regional tensions.

BHR 2026 Minimum 25 Per Cent, Labour Minister Urges App-Based Operators to Be Transparent About Calculations

Indonesia's Labour Ministry has issued a circular urging app-based transport platforms to be transparent about how the Religious Holiday Bonus (BHR) for 2026 is calculated for online drivers and couriers. The BHR must be paid in cash and be at least 25 per cent of the average net income over the previous 12 months, with recipients limited to those officially registered with the platform in the last year.

Agriculture Minister: No farmers crying foul after 20% cut in subsidised fertiliser

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman says there are no longer complaints from farmers after a 20 percent cut in subsidised fertiliser, part of measures to boost productivity and safeguard national food self-sufficiency. He notes reduced grievances, gradual distribution improvements, and a 20 percent price decline, while confirming government guarantees of fertiliser supply to avoid disrupting sowing seasons.

Former Foreign Minister Outlines Conditions for Indonesia to Become Mediator in the US–Israel–Iran Conflict

Former Foreign Minister Hassan Wirajuda said that for Indonesia to mediate in the US–Israel–Iran dispute, there must be willingness from both sides, with no signs yet. Foreign Minister Sugiono emphasised Indonesia’s readiness but returned the decision to the parties themselves, offering to act as a bridge to prevent escalation. Indonesia has also offered to facilitate dialogue with Iran to prevent further casualties and restore regional stability.

After Meeting Prabowo, Paloh Says Indonesia Remains in the BoP

After meeting Prabowo at the Presidential Palace, Surya Paloh says Indonesia remains on the Board of Peace (BoP) for now, but could be reevaluated with other countries. Prabowo reportedly reaffirmed his approach to an independent and active foreign policy and emphasised sympathy for the Palestinian cause; the talks also touched on Middle East tensions. The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has urged Indonesia to withdraw from the BoP, arguing that the membership of the US and Israel undermines peace efforts in the region.

Timeline of a primary school pupil found dead, drenched in blood, at her home in Bandung Barat

A 12-year-old primary school pupil, ASA, was found dead at her home in Kampung Warung Tiwu, Cipatat, Bandung Barat, on 3 March 2026, with multiple stab wounds. Police said four wounds were found, including a neck wound and several on the back; the victim's mother discovered her after returning from work and Qur’an lessons, and the missing phone is being investigated to determine if a robbery with violence occurred.

Optimistic About Competing at the SEA Games 2027, IPF Intensifies Pickleball Socialisation

The Indonesia Pickleball Federation (IPF) is stepping up national outreach as it eyes potential inclusion of pickleball in the SEA Games 2027 in Malaysia. Officials say Malaysia's preference and Vietnam's competition strength keep the door open, while domestic plans include expanding training facilities and new sport centres such as Nikavata Sports Lab to boost readiness.

Manpower Minister Urges App-Based Operators to Be Transparent in 2026 Religious Holiday Bonus

The Indonesian Minister of Manpower has urged app-based transport providers to ensure transparency in the mechanism for awarding the 2026 Religious Holiday Bonus to drivers and online couriers. The Circular Letter M/4/HK.04.00/III/2026 sets the rules, including eligibility for recipients registered within the last 12 months and a cash bonus of at least 25% of the 12-month average net income.

Ronaldo 'Fleeing' to Madrid Following Iranian Missile Threat, Fabrizio Romano: Hoax!

Italian football journalist Fabrizio Romano dismisses claims that Cristiano Ronaldo fled Saudi Arabia for Madrid amid Gulf tensions, describing the reports as hoaxes. He says Ronaldo is receiving treatment at Al Nassr's training ground after a recent problem in the match, and has not left Saudi Arabia. The AFC has postponed several crucial matches in response to the regional tensions, and Ronaldo's injury was confirmed by Al Nassr, with rehabilitation underway.

How to Check Someone's Location Easily Using WhatsApp and Google

The article describes multiple methods to determine another person's location using popular platforms such as WhatsApp, Google Maps, Gmail, Geofind, and mobile operators. It provides step-by-step instructions, including how to obtain an IP address and share location data, and highlights privacy and potential misuse concerns.

Iran's War Against the US-Israel Conflict, Finance Minister Purbaya Reiterates Fuel Supplies Remain Secure Despite Rising Oil Prices

Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says the government has prepared to guard against the impact of the Iran conflict on the national fuel supply and prices. Simulations show the budget can accommodate purchases even if crude prices rise to around 92 USD per barrel, while another minister notes ICP price assumptions and potential subsidy implications for the 2026 APBN.

The 3C Principle During Ramadan: How to Manage Calories, Types of Food, and Meal Timing

Public health guidance during Ramadan emphasises balancing calorie intake, food choices, and meal timing to prevent energy excess. Dr Ida Gunawan outlines the 3C/3J framework—Calories, Choice, and Clock—and warns that processing methods and added sugars are major contributors to the calories consumed at iftar. The advice includes choosing complex carbohydrates, limiting fried foods and fats, and prioritising protein and fibre to support satiety and digestion.

Environment and Forestry Minister affirms severe penalties for Sumatran elephant poachers

The Indonesian Environment and Forestry Minister warns of heavy penalties for poachers of protected Sumatran elephants, following the discovery of headless poachers in Riau. He emphasises the government's commitment to protecting protected wildlife from organised crime and notes that 15 suspects have been named through close cooperation with police and conservation authorities.

Indonesian Embassy in Iran Initiates Evacuation of Indonesian Citizens Back to Indonesia

Indonesia's embassy in Tehran has begun voluntary evacuation of Indonesian nationals amid ongoing attacks by Israel and the United States. About 329 Indonesians are reported to be in Iran, mostly students, with evacuees to be welcomed back while others are advised to stay in contact for safety.

Chinese researchers develop a neural network to read raw sensory data

Chinese researchers have developed a new neural network that enables artificial intelligence to form concepts from raw sensory data, such as vision and hearing, simulating core aspects of human cognition. The framework, named CATS Net and reported in Nature Computational Science, consists of distinct concept abstraction and task-solving modules and can autonomously generate new concepts within its own concept space. The study suggests the model's conceptual space aligns with human cognitive and linguistic logic and can transfer knowledge across AI systems without re-training on raw data, offering insights into how humans form and use concepts in the brain.

Remnants of Ko Erwin's meth-dealing network still at large

Police have captured drug lord Ko Erwin in Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra, and are now pursuing the remaining members of his network, including Andre Fernando 'The Doctor', A Hamid alias Boy, and Satriawan. The case involves multi-regional trafficking and money transfers, with DPOs issued for Andre and details linking to officials in Bima and beyond, underscoring the scope of Ko Erwin's operation.

Trump claims US 'forced' Israel to strike Iran, says Tehran's air defences have been knocked out

US President Donald Trump says the United States forced Israel to strike Iran to pre-empt a potential attack, claiming Tehran's air defences have been knocked out after a major strike that killed Iran's top leader. The piece also notes shifts in US-Israel coordination, alleged humanitarian impacts, and reactions in Indonesia and beyond.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor to relinquish lease on East Lodge amid tight scrutiny of Crown Estate assets

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is reported to be ending the lease on East Lodge, a Grade II-listed Crown Estate property near Sunninghill Park, Berkshire. The move, amid renewed scrutiny of royal finances and assets, follows prolonged controversy and a plan by the Public Accounts Committee to probe royal property contracts for transparency and value for money.

China releases guidelines to boost recycling and end-of-life PV module waste management

China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, along with five other government departments, issued guidelines to promote comprehensive recycling and reuse of end-of-life PV modules, aiming to build system-wide capacity to manage large-scale module failures. The plan targets up to 250,000 tonnes of used PV modules to be utilised cumulatively by 2027 and calls for breakthroughs in dismantling, high-efficiency separation of laminated parts, and component extraction, with broader use of recycled PV-derived products across sectors. By 2030 the guidelines aim for further advances in recycling technology and industry innovation, with coordinated upstream-downstream supply chains to tackle future large-scale PV waste waves.

MWC 2026 Opens in Barcelona, Spotlighting the Theme 'The IQ Era'

MWC 2026 opened in Barcelona under the theme 'The IQ Era', emphasising smart infrastructure, connectivity, AI applications, and inclusive technology. With around 2,900 exhibitors and sponsors and over 1,200 speakers, the event showcased global collaboration, the first China Pavilion, and calls for deeper 5G deployment, AI governance, and secure AI-enabled networks.

US Evacuates 9,000 Citizens from the Middle East; UAE Repatriates 44,000 Tourists

The United States has evacuated about 9,000 of its nationals from Middle Eastern countries amid ongoing Iranian retaliation against Gulf states hosting US bases. Concurrently, the UAE is repatriating 44,000 foreign tourists as the conflict spills over. Indonesia has ordered evacuation of its citizens in Iran as open hostilities intensify.

The Main Condition for Borrowing Clearly Stated in the Qur'an That Many People Do Not Understand

A senior Islamic scholar, M. Quraish Shihab, explains that the Qur'an allows debt only with clear terms and due dates, and that borrowing should be avoided if possible. The piece highlights the psychological burden of debt, the prohibition of exploitation and riba, and the imperative to plan carefully, especially for non-essential purchases or when debt is used for business development with a clear plan.

NU's Elder Kiai: It Is Better to Support Iran Than America

NU senior cleric Afifuddin Muhajir argues that geopolitical priorities may justify cooperation with Shi’ah opponents in the fight against a larger threat, suggesting it is better to back Iran than the United States. The debate over whether backing Iran conflicts with Aswaja An-Nahdliyah highlights the complex interplay between theology and geopolitics in Indonesia.

Backing the Return of Indonesian Umrah Pilgrims, Aircraft Fleet Ready to Be Expanded

Indonesia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah says it is preparing two schemes to support the return of Umrah pilgrims: additional Garuda Indonesia aircraft during Ramadan and flexible flight-scenario adjustments if the Middle East tensions rise. It notes 7,782 pilgrims have already returned between 28 February and 2 March 2026, while about 58,873 Indonesian pilgrims remain in Saudi Arabia. The ministry is also advising would-be pilgrims to defer travel for now and emphasises safety and cross-ministerial coordination.

Amran targets completion of integrated poultry downstream development within 1.5 years

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman aims to finish the integrated poultry downstream development within 1.5 years to bolster national protein self-sufficiency and lift exports of poultry products. The project, commencing with six regional sites and marked by a Phase I groundbreaking led by Danantara in Malang, will connect feed mills, DOC hatcheries, and processing to create a more efficient, globally competitive supply chain.

US, Japan Back Indonesia’s Push for Small Modular Nuclear Reactors - Jakarta Globe

Indonesia’s National Energy Council opened a three-day conference on small modular reactors (SMRs) with backing from the United States and Japan, as Jakarta pursues SMRs as part of its clean-energy transition. The FIRST programme-supported event aims to strengthen regulatory frameworks, workforce development, and manufacturing capabilities while ensuring high safety and nonproliferation standards. U.S. and Japanese officials framed the talks as a pivotal step in trilateral cooperation to advance Indonesia’s nuclear energy prospects, including regulatory, licensing, and site considerations and potential local industrial participation.

Saudi Aramco refinery attacked, government shifts LPG import sources

Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Minister, Bahlil Lahadalia, announced a shift in LPG imports away from the Middle East to countries not using routes through the Hormuz Strait, in response to escalating tensions in the region. The government plans to meet 7.8 million tonnes this year, with 70% sourced from the United States and 30% from the Middle East, including Saudi Aramco. The move follows drone attacks on Saudi Aramco's Ras Tanura refinery, which led to a temporary shutdown and heightened concerns about energy supply security.

Renting a Kijang Innova for Lebaran homecoming: package prices from Rp 2 million

With Lebaran homecoming approaching, demand for family vehicles rises and the Toyota Kijang Innova remains a sought-after model. Alva Rental in Bekasi has prepared 40 vehicles for the Lebaran period, offering All In packages to lock in availability and lower costs. The service targets convenient, comfortable travel for families during the peak travel season.

Catholic Daily Reflection: Wednesday 4 March 2026 — Today's Readings: The Sacrifice

The Catholic daily reflection for Wednesday, 4 March 2026 revolves around the theme of sacrifice, drawing on readings from Jeremiah, Psalm 31, Matthew, and Exodus. It notes the liturgical memorial of Saint Casimir (Confessor) and Saint Lucius (Pope and Martyr), and states that the day’s liturgical colour is violet. The reflection, taken from the book 'Inspirasi Pagi' by Alfons Jehadut, invites believers to consider true greatness as service to others, complemented by today’s prayers and readings.

Hikmahanto: Indonesia's BoP membership requires DPR ratification; hopes for rejection

Indonesian international law professor Hikmahanto Juwana argues that the DPR must ratify Indonesia's membership in the Board of Peace (BoP), the body formed by Donald Trump, for the membership to be legitimate, and he even hopes the DPR will reject it. Senior politicians weigh options, including withdrawal from BoP, citing concerns over the organisation's peace mandate and Indonesia's constitutional foreign policy principles.

Who Is Mansoureh Khojasteh, Khamenei's Wife Dubbed a 'Martyr'?

The report from Iran's state media states that Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, wife of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has died from injuries sustained in a US-Israeli air strike. Born in Mashhad, Bagherzadeh lived a private life as the Supreme Leader's wife and mother of six, with Iranian outlets describing her death as martyrdom. The episode, alongside other casualties and reports of strikes, underscores the broader regional escalation and diplomatic-military tensions surrounding Iran.

APBN Remains Robust Against Global Crisis and Escalation in the Middle East, Says Finance Minister Purbaya

Indonesia's state budget remains robust to a prolonged global crisis and Middle East escalation, Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says. Revenue in January–February 2026 rose about 30%, and simulations of oil-price scenarios show the budget can absorb increases unless prices spike extremely, which would trigger a fiscal recalibration. The remarks followed a meeting with President Prabowo Subianto.

Bahlil: The President Reaffirms Indonesia's Readiness to Face the Impacts of Global Conflict

President Prabowo Subianto gathered former presidents, vice-presidents and party chairs to discuss the intensifying global geopolitics, including the Iran–Israel escalation. The government said Indonesia is prepared to face potential global crises, particularly in energy and food security, and has formulated several scenarios to maintain national stability.

It Turns Out Iran Is Not an Arab Country, Here's Why

Iran is often mistaken for an Arab country, but it has a distinct Persian ethnicity, language, and history. The article explains how these differences—ethnicity, the Persian language, and a separate historical arc from Arab Islam—mean Iran is not part of the Arab world.

Frugal Electric and Hybrid Car Showdown: J5 EV vs Rocky e-Smart Hybrid

An indicative comparison of annual energy costs between the Jaecoo J5 EV and the Daihatsu Rocky e-Smart Hybrid shows the EV incurring around Rp 5.62 million per year in electricity, roughly half the cost of the hybrid under the same 20,000 km annual assumption. The hybrid logs a real-world fuel economy of 24.6 km per litre, equating to about 813 litres of petrol annually; the resulting energy cost is higher, with a gap of about Rp 4.3 million per year in favour of the EV. The article notes additional electric-vehicle benefits such as lower taxes and Jakarta's odd–even exemptions, while the hybrid remains attractive for long-distance versatility.

Foreign Minister Sugiono: President Prabowo Ready to Mediate If US and Iran Desire It

Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto has signalled willingness to mediate a dialogue between the United States, Israel and Iran if both sides seek his involvement, with Jakarta positioning itself as a potential intermediary amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. The Foreign Ministry said Prabowo could travel to Tehran to facilitate talks, subject to agreement by all parties, reflecting Indonesia’s active diplomacy under its free and active foreign policy.

Eradicating stigma to eliminate the neglected disease known as leprosy

A personal story from Cirebon highlights enduring stigma against people with leprosy as Indonesia pursues elimination of the disease. The piece details Rusdin's early symptoms, isolation at home and school, delayed treatment, and the long-lasting social effects, including depression. The report underscores the need for combating stigma to achieve public health goals.

4 Facts About a Woman Who Brutally Abandoned Her Newborn Baby in a Rubbish Bin

A newborn girl was found inside a black bag in a rubbish bin at Pasar Nalo, Pademangan, North Jakarta. Police arrested a 20-year-old woman, identified by initials DR, believed to be the mother, after CCTV footage emerged. Investigations suggest the baby resulted from a clandestine relationship, and the suspect gave birth alone before discarding the infant, with her seven-year-old brother assisting in carrying the body to the disposal site.

Special allowance for DTPK doctors in NTT worth Rp30 million per month

The Indonesian government's Treasury Directorate in NTT has announced a monthly special allowance of Rp30 million for specialist and subspecialist doctors serving in left-behind, border, and archipelago regions in NTT, funded from a Rp74.55 billion budget for 2026 to support 207 doctors across 20 regions. The payments are transferred directly to doctors’ personal accounts to ensure timely disbursement, with Sikka Regency receiving the largest allocation. The move is part of efforts to reduce regional health disparities and improve access to quality care nationwide.

Present in Badung, Check the Schedule and Location of the SIM Keliling Today, 4 March 2026

The Badung authorities have reintroduced the mobile Driver's Licence (SIM Keliling) service to facilitate renewals of SIM A and SIM C, with locations at Damkar Dalung and the Public Service Mall. The service runs from 08:30 WITA, with fees set under Government Regulation No. 60 of 2016 and additional costs for medical and psychology tests; renewals are limited to active licences and cannot be used for new applications, replacements, or expired renewals.

Are You a Morning Person? Here Are the Signs

Morning people have a biological tendency to wake up and be active earlier, linked to the circadian rhythm. The article cites Sleep Foundation and neuroscientist Matthew Walker to explain that chronotypes are biologically driven, with energy and focus peaking in the morning and the ability to wake before alarms; they tend to become sleepy earlier in the evening and maintain a regular sleep schedule.

How to tell if someone is using your home Wi‑Fi without permission, and how to block them

Home Wi‑Fi users can check which devices are connected and block unauthorised access by accessing the router's admin page using the router's IP, username, and password, then viewing the device list and, if needed, changing the Wi‑Fi password.

PKS Urges Prabowo to Consider Indonesia's Withdrawal from the Board of Peace

Hidayat Nur Wahid questions the consistency of the Board of Peace as the conflict widens, arguing that Indonesia should reassess its BoP involvement and consider withdrawal in light of public pressure. He supports Prabowo's mediation role but warns diplomacy must remain within an independent and active foreign policy.

Agriculture Minister Aims for Export Support Services to Be Completed Within 24 Hours

Indonesia's Agriculture Ministry is moving to speed up export support services, aiming for a 24-hour turnaround for the Veterinary Certificate (SV) to expedite licensing and improve national exporters' competitiveness. The policy, aligned with the president's instruction to enhance public service, has already enabled poultry exporters to ship 545 tonnes of poultry and derivatives worth Rp18.2 billion to Singapore, Japan and Timor-Leste, with four Indonesian firms participating.

Long-Distance Eid Mudik with an Electric Car That Won’t Stall

As electric vehicles become more common for Eid homecomings, experts warn that thorough route planning and knowledge of charging-station locations are essential. Drivers should map SPKLU locations along the route using apps, and plan charging when the battery is around 20–30%, to avoid queues or unavailable chargers; real-world range may fall short of official claims by 5–10% and worsen on poor roads. With careful planning and battery management, electric-mobility Eid travel can be safe and comfortable.

Paloh reveals Prabowo ensures Indonesia remains on the Board of Peace

Indonesia's NasDem leader Surya Paloh notes that Indonesia's participation in the Board of Peace (BoP) was discussed in a national dialogue chaired by President Prabowo Subianto. Paloh supports Prabowo's commitment to an active, independent foreign policy and solidarity with Palestinians, while signalling that BoP membership could be re-evaluated if developments require it; the piece also covers MUI's condemnation of US-Israel actions and its call for Indonesia to withdraw from BoP.

Surabaya Residents Fail to See Total Lunar Eclipse Due to Overcast Sky

On Tuesday, 3 March, Surabaya’s skies prevented observers from witnessing a total lunar eclipse (the Blood Moon) due to thick cloud cover, despite astronomical expectations of totality at Maghrib. The event, which lasted from 18:04 to 19:02 WIB before a partial phase continued until 20:17 WIB, was thwarted by overcast conditions at Umsura, with only a fleeting glimmer observed before cloud obscuration.

Indonesia Must Be Accepted by All Parties to Become Mediator in Iran–US–Israel Tensions

Indonesia's bid to mediate hinges on acceptance by both sides, said Foreign Minister Noer Hassan Wirajuda. President Prabowo Subianto has convened senior figures to discuss Middle East escalations, signalling openness to act as a bridge. Iran has not yet indicated willingness to negotiate.

Surya Paloh Reiterates That Indonesia Remains a Member of the Board of Peace

Surya Paloh said that, as of now, Indonesia remains a member of the Board of Peace and will continue to advocate for Palestine's independence. He cautioned that the government's stance could be revised if new developments arise in cooperation with other countries. The remarks followed a meeting at the Presidential Palace where President Prabowo Subianto reaffirmed Indonesia's independent and proactive foreign policy and its empathy for the Palestinian people.

The Strait of Hormuz Has Become a Menace to Tankers

Following coordinated US-Israeli strikes, Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz, turning one of the world’s busiest oil chokepoints into a high-risk corridor for tanker traffic. Tehran has since launched drones and missiles against Israel and Gulf states hosting US assets, while IRGC claims to have struck an anchored tanker passing through the strait illegally. The clashes highlight a dangerous escalation in the Middle East with potential global energy and security implications.

New Samsat Policy for Depok–Bekasi Lets Residents Pay Without Original BPKB

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi announced a new Samsat policy allowing residents of Depok, Bekasi City and Bekasi Regency to pay motor vehicle tax without presenting the BPKB, original or copies, via digital channels such as SIGNAL. The move aims to simplify administration and boost tax revenue for regional infrastructure, with confirmation from the Metro Depok traffic police that the change applies to all residents in the area.

HS Tobacco Boss Apologises to Jupiter Rider After Crash Involving His Moge

HS Tobacco founder Muhammad Suryo has apologised to the family of a Jupiter MX rider injured in a crash in Temon, Kulon Progo, in which his wife died. He has pledged to cover medical expenses and fund the education of the victim's child, while investigators continue to probe the incident.

Father in Surabaya Molests His Own Daughter for Four Years Starting When She Was in Primary School

A man identified by the initials PJ, aged 38, has been arrested in Surabaya after police established he molested his biological daughter, now 15, over four years, beginning when she was 11 and still in primary school. The abuse came to light when the victim’s mother found PJ and her daughter undressed in October 2025. The suspect admitted the acts; authorities said the motive was lust, and the girl is receiving trauma support from the Surabaya City Government while PJ has been forwarded to the prosecutor's office under child-protection laws.

To Leave Dubai, Tourists Rush to Hire Private Jets Priced at Rp1.6 Billion

Tourists in Dubai and the wider Middle East are rushing to hire private jets as international flights are disrupted by the US–Israel–Iran conflict, forcing travellers to seek faster exit options. Prices have surged, with some routes offered for tens of thousands of euros and even up to hundreds of thousands of dollars, while operators warn that fleet availability is tight.

Latest Data: Majority of US Citizens 'Back Iran', Do Not Want War

New polling by CNN International and SSRS shows 59% of Americans disapprove of the initial attack on Iran, with 41% in favour, and 31% strongly opposed compared with 16% strongly in favour. The survey also indicates widespread doubt about President Trump’s leadership, with 60% saying he lacks a clear plan and 62% insisting he should obtain Congress’s approval for any further military action. It also reveals mixed views on diplomacy and escalation: 56% see a long-term conflict as likely, and Republican voters remain more supportive of military action though divisions persist.

Golden Step to Victory: Imsak Timetable for Jakarta and Surrounding Areas Today, 4 March 2026

Muslims in Jakarta and its environs are provided with the imsak and prayer times for 4 March 2026 to observe Ramadan, including sahur cut-off and iftar times. A full Ramadan 2026 timetable for Jakarta is included, with instructions to download it from detikcom, and the timetable is supported by Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI).

Prabowo discusses Indonesia's position on the Board of Peace (BoP) for Gaza after unilateral US-Israel attack on Iran

President Prabowo convened senior figures to discuss Indonesia's stance on the Board of Peace (BoP) for Gaza in response to the Iran conflict and potential effects on BoP's position and mandate. They examined implications for global security and the world economy, including oil and gas supply, and the enforcement of international law by powerful states. The meeting was described as constructive, with the President open to diverse proposals.

Foreign Minister Sugiono Says 15 Indonesian Nationals Will Be Evacuated from Tehran

Indonesia's Foreign Minister Sugiono announced that 15 Indonesian nationals in Tehran will be evacuated amid escalating tensions between the United States, Israel and Iran. He has instructed the Indonesian ambassador in Tehran to arrange immediate evacuation, though timing is uncertain due to airspace closures and the long journey via Baku. He noted that only these 15 have expressed willingness, and other Indonesians in the region have not yet volunteered.

Fifteen Indonesian nationals in Iran ready to be evacuated via Azerbaijan

Foreign Minister Sugiono said 15 Indonesian citizens in Tehran are prepared to be evacuated via Baku, Azerbaijan, amid escalating Middle East tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel. Evacuation would involve a land transfer to Baku before a flight to Jakarta, with timing coordinated with the Indonesian embassy; the 15 individuals have expressed willingness to be evacuated, and the ambassador to Iran has been instructed to take action.

Cultural Collaboration Enlivens Cap Go Meh Celebrations in Gorontalo

Gorontalo’s Cap Go Meh celebrations featured koko'o music, a bamboo kentungan percussion instrument, used to wake attendees for the Gorontalo sahur, along with barongsai and dragon dances. The festival also included processions of palanquins bearing deity statues at the Tridharma Place of Worship (TITD) Tulus Harapan Kita in Gorontalo City. It underscored interfaith tolerance within the Tridharma community during the Kongzili 2577 Lunar New Year celebrations.

UGM Academics Urge Reassessment of Indonesia's Involvement in the BoP and the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade with the United States

Academics at Gadjah Mada University call for a review of Indonesia's participation in the Board of Peace and the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade with the United States, arguing the moves could threaten sovereignty and stray from the country’s free and active foreign policy. They urge comprehensive, evidence-based analysis and consider renegotiation, delay, or cancellation if the ART does not align with constitutional objectives.

Strengthening Corporate Integrity Culture, PTPP Realises Good Corporate Governance as a Pillar of Sustainability

PTPP, a national construction and investment company, reaffirms its commitment to strengthening Good Corporate Governance (GCG) as a pillar of sustainability, expanding its whistleblowing system to promote integrity and compliance across the organisation. The company, listed and state-owned, has received multiple governance awards from independent bodies such as The Iconomics, IICD, and the IDX, underscoring its transparency and accountability.

MUI Urges Indonesia to Withdraw from BoP Amid Middle East Conflict, Foreign Minister Says

Indonesia's Foreign Minister said discussions about the Board of Peace (BoP) are on hold as Jakarta shifts its diplomatic focus to security developments in Iran amid Middle East tensions. The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) urged withdrawal from BoP, criticising its effectiveness in promoting peace, and the government says it remains in contact with Gulf BoP members while monitoring the situation.

Agriculture Minister Reaffirms Plan to Import 1,000 Tonnes of Rice from the United States

Indonesia's Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman reaffirms that plans to import 1,000 tonnes of rice from the United States will not undermine national self-sufficiency, given the small quantity and its target market of foreign tourists and investors. The plan is contrasted with a larger export commitment to Saudi Arabia and stockpiles managed by Perum Bulog, underscoring a negotiated trade balance rather than domestic supply concerns.

Japan says it has no qualms about accepting Muslim workers from Indonesia — here are the reasons

Japan has asserted it is more open to Muslim workers from Indonesia, with around 180,000 Indonesians employed in Japan—the fastest growth among foreign workers. The Japanese Chargé d'Affaires ad interim in Indonesia says this demonstrates reduced hesitation toward Muslim workers and strengthens people-to-people ties, while noting lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic and expressing admiration for Indonesian Ramadan culture.

Jokowi and Gibran Travel in the Same Car After Meeting Prabowo at the Istana Merdeka

Joko Widodo and his eldest son Gibran Rakabuming Raka attended a national unity event hosted by President Prabowo Subianto at Istana Merdeka, Jakarta, with Jokowi leaving the meeting first around 23:15 WIB. The two later traveled in the same car, while Prabowo led a lengthy discussion with other former presidents and senior officials.

Three Tropical Cyclone Disturbances Could Trigger Extreme Weather in Several Regions of Indonesia

BMKG warns that three tropical cyclone disturbances in southern Indonesia could bring heavy rainfall, strong winds and high waves to multiple provinces in the coming days. Officials say they are intensively monitoring the situation and urge the public to rely only on official BMKG channels to avoid misinformation; Disturbance 90S is likely to develop into a tropical cyclone within 24-48 hours.

Indonesia to Mediate US–Iran Conflict, Hassan Wirajuda Says There Has Been No 'Green Light' Yet

Former foreign minister Hassan Wirajuda says Indonesia's bid to mediate the US–Israel–Iran conflict hinges on acceptance by the warring sides, but there are no signs of such acceptance yet. President Prabowo Subianto has offered to travel to Tehran to facilitate dialogue if both sides agree. The Foreign Ministry reaffirmed Indonesia's readiness to help and urged dialogue, diplomacy and respect for sovereignty as regional tensions risk global security.

Bengkulu Prosecutor's Office Again Names Two Suspects in Musi Hydroelectric Plant Corruption Case

The Bengkulu High Prosecutor's Office has named two more suspects in the Musi Hydroelectric Plant corruption case, involving the replacement of the main control system and AVR system for 2022–2023. Investigators say the suspects conspired to inflate prices, with a claimed SKU price reference of Rp32.63 billion including 11% VAT, while the actual price of SKU equipment from the two suppliers was Rp17.23 billion, leading to suspected overpricing and markup.

Cap Go Meh Parade 2026 in Bogor a Festive Occasion as Fadli Zon and Bima Arya Attend

The Cap Go Meh celebration in Bogor was a festive event highlighting cultural tolerance and local economic benefits. Attended by national and regional leaders, the festival emphasised unity and inclusivity while supporting around 120 home-grown micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Badr: When History Refuses to Be Neutral

The piece argues that the Battle of Badr, though numerically outmatched, marked a moral turning point in history, insisting that truth and justice demand more than passive endurance. It reads Badr through Ali Shariati’s philosophy, emphasising non-neutrality and ethical conduct in victory and captivity, set during Ramadan.

Pakistani Couple Killer in Puncak Bogor Faces Up to 20 Years' Imprisonment

Police have named a suspect in the murder of a Pakistani husband-and-wife duo in Cisarua, Bogor. The suspect, an employee at the victims’ spice shop, faces premeditated murder charges under Article 459 of the Indonesian Penal Code, with penalties of life imprisonment or 20 years. Investigators say the motive arose from resentment after repeated accusations of theft by the victims, and the suspect then placed them in a car and drove to Padalarang before abandoning them; he was later arrested.

Prabowo Establishes a National Forum to Anticipate Geopolitical Impacts

President Prabowo Subianto convened a cross-generational meeting of leaders and party chiefs to forge a national space for discussion on the evolving global geopolitical landscape. The gathering, attended by former presidents and vice presidents, former foreign ministers, and several party leaders, emphasised unity and national preparedness, including food security and energy resilience. PKS leader Al Muzzammil Yusuf said Indonesia’s decision to join the Board of Peace is the most feasible option under current dynamics, as leaders stressed inclusive, high-level dialogue and coordinated governance.

Imsak Schedule Today, 4 March 2026, in Yogyakarta: Rekindling the Spirit of Morning Worship

The article provides the Imsak timetable for Yogyakarta on 4 March 2026, highlighting sahur’s blessing and its role in preparing Muslims for the day’s fast. It cites a hadith from Al-Bukhari and Muslim and notes Republika’s Imsakiyah as a daily, reliable source, while encouraging spiritual activities such as reading the Quran.

Imsak and Subuh Times for Today, Wednesday 4 March 2026

The Ramadan timetable for the 14th day of Ramadan 1447 Hijri is published, detailing Imsak and Subuh times across major Indonesian cities, sourced from the official bimasislam.kemenag.go.id timetable. The article lists Imsak and Subuh times for Jakarta, Semarang, Makassar, Palembang, and Jayapura.

Bloodstained Footprints of Mossad Operations: 5 Silent Actions That Shook the World

The piece traces Mossad's alleged involvement in a recent Israel–US airstrike that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other senior security figures, and surveys Mossad's long history of covert operations. It discusses how intelligence sharing with the CIA enabled precision strikes, and highlights ongoing debates over legality and ethics of such covert actions.

Shocking! A Bengkulu Utara Madrasah Student Dies After Consuming MBG, BGN Reveals the Real Facts

BGN has said Fatih’s death is not linked to MBG meals after BPOM found no contamination. Fatih suffered a brain haemorrhage requiring neurosurgery and died about 12 hours after the operation, highlighting the need for verified medical and laboratory findings; authorities urge patience until official results are available.

Three defendants in obstruction of law enforcement in corruption cases acquitted

Three individuals — the former Tian Bahtiar TV crew member, activist/heads of the buzzer team Adhiya Muzakki, and lawyer Junaedi Saibih — were acquitted by the Jakarta Corruption Court after a judge ruled there was no proven intent to obstruct law enforcement in three corruption cases. The judge ordered restoration of their rights and noted that the defendants’ actions did not amount to criminal conduct, with potential fines of Rp600 million each, or 150 days in prison if unpaid. The cases involved paid social-media activity intended to shape negative public opinion about the handling of the cases.

Kakorlantas Leads TFG for Ketupat Operation 2026, Anticipating Mudik Surge

The Indonesian Police's Traffic Corps (Kakorlantas) led a Tactical Floor Game ahead of Operasi Ketupat 2026 to rehearse traffic security and flow management for Lebaran 2026. The exercise involved regional Ditlantas units, tested contraflow and diversion scenarios, and highlighted real-time traffic monitoring and multi‑stakeholder support including Polwan, Kowad, Jasa Raharja, Jasa Marga, and government ministries.

Today's Imsakiyah Schedule: 4 March 2026 in Semarang, Encouraging Morning Worship

The article provides the Imsakiyah times for Semarang on 4 March 2026, emphasising sahur ahead of Ramadan 1447 AH, and urges readers to stop eating and drinking before Imsak. It lists standard daily prayer times (Imsak, Subuh, Terbit, Dhuha, Dzuhur, Ashar, Maghrib, Isya) and notes AI-assisted compilation from Bimas Islam.

Magnitude 4.5 earthquake hits East Luwu, South Sulawesi

An earthquake of magnitude 4.5 struck East Luwu Regency in South Sulawesi at a depth of 10 kilometres. The epicentre lies at 2.35°S, 120.86°E, and there have been no initial reports of damage or casualties. Authorities caution that calculations are provisional and may change as more data become available.

Judge Acquits Lawyer Junaedi in Bribery Case Over Ruling to Free CPO

In Jakarta, lawyer Junaedi Saibih has been acquitted in a bribery case linked to efforts to influence a ruling to acquit in a corruption case involving crude palm oil (CPO) export facilities. The presiding Chief Judge ruled that prosecutors failed to prove a meeting of minds among the defendants, and accordingly dismissed related disciplinary actions against him. The verdict also noted there was no evidence of direct meetings or coordinated payments among the defendants.

Foreign Minister says President ready to mediate if Iran and the United States seek mediation

Indonesia's Foreign Minister Sugiono says President Prabowo Subianto is prepared to act as mediator if Iran and the United States wish to pursue talks. Indonesia emphasises its readiness to bridge differences but notes the decision to continue or restart negotiations rests with the involved parties, with no concrete steps yet reported.

THR 2026 Press Conference: Government Urges Companies to Pay By No Later Than Seven Days Before Eid al-Fitr

The Indonesian government outlined a Rp55 trillion THR budget for about 10.5 million public sector workers, marking a 10% year-on-year increase. It also urged private employers to disburse THR in full without installment payments at least seven days before Eid al-Fitr, signaling a push to ensure timely festive bonuses across the economy.

Two Bodies Found in Car in Bandung Barat Are Husband and Wife, Police Reveal the Chronology

Two bodies were found in a car parked near a vacant house in Padalarang, Bandung Barat. The victims, MA and FA, were identified as a husband and wife who are believed to be victims of a suspected robbery with violence. Investigations are ongoing, with cross-jurisdiction involvement by Cimahi Police.

Former Foreign Minister Hassan Wirajuda Leaks Details of Prabowo's Meeting with the Former President and Vice-President

Former Indonesian Foreign Minister Hassan Wirajuda has disclosed the contents of a closed-door meeting between President Prabowo Subianto and the former president and vice-president. The discussions, held at Istana Merdeka on 3 March 2026, focused on the Middle East escalation, its implications for Indonesia and the global order, and potential economic impacts.

Ustadz Abdul Somad: We Stand Tall With Any Nation That Defends Palestine

Indonesian preacher Ustadz Abdul Somad says Indonesia must stand tall with any country that defends Palestine, posting images of world leaders who support Palestine. His post comes as reports of a US-Israeli attack on Iran escalate regional tensions, with casualties and Iranian retaliation amid a widening conflict.

Agriculture Minister Initiates Export of Indonesia’s Processed Poultry Products to the Philippines

Indonesia’s Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman announced that the ministry is opening the Philippines as a new market for processed poultry products, expanding Indonesia’s export destinations to 11. He noted ongoing daily exports to 10 established markets, including Japan, Singapore and Timor Leste, with shipments valued at Rp18.2 billion (545 tonnes). The government emphasises downstreaming to boost farmers’ incomes and domestic industry, and is speeding up export licensing to within 24 hours, potentially one hour, aligning with President Prabowo Subianto’s policy.

Mugger in West Jakarta Poses as Helping Elderly Faint Victim; His Confession Comes as a Surprise

An alleged mugger in West Jakarta pretended to assist an elderly woman who had fainted after attempting to snatch her belongings. The suspect, BAS (28), was arrested following CCTV evidence and bystander intervention; he later confessed and faces charges under Article 479 of the KUHP for robbery with violence, with a maximum sentence of 12 years.

During Ramadan, Police Distribute Basic Foodstuffs to the Elderly in Puncak, Bogor

Police in Megamendung, Bogor distributed essential food aid to the elderly and the needy ahead of Ramadan, as part of a community outreach initiative. The operation included distributing staples such as rice, cooking oil, and sugar, and featured warnings about unsafe lending practices to safeguard residents from debt and scams.

Investment and Exports Drive Kepri Economy, Household Consumption Still Lagging

Kepri’s economy remains anchored by investment and net exports, with household consumption yet to provide a balanced, sustainable impulse. The mining and processing sectors underpin growth, underpinned by new oil and gas fields entering production and the WNTS–Pemping pipeline, slated for completion in 2026, with onstream targets for 2027. BI’s consumer confidence index for Kepri rose to 137.0 in Q1 2026, signalling renewed optimism despite past policy headwinds and HBKN.

OJK strengthens tokenisation of real assets to meet Shariah principles

The Indonesian financial regulator OJK is strengthening tokenisation of real assets such as gold, property and securities to meet Shariah principles, while awaiting updates to fatwas on crypto investments. It notes that underlying real assets can satisfy core Shariah principles, with pilots in the regulatory sandbox and ongoing consultations with Islamic bodies about updating fatwas; future Shariah token lists may be considered under existing digital asset frameworks.

Today's Imsakiyah Schedule, 4 March 2026: Spirit of Morning Worship in Surabaya

The article reports on Ramadan morning practices in Surabaya, highlighting sahur duties and the Imsak timetable, with exact prayer times and guidance from credible sources. It also promotes reading the Qur'an via Republika's digital platform and notes the article was AI-assisted with Bimas Islam as a source.

Trump: I May Have Forced Israel to Attack Iran

Donald Trump has claimed he may have pressured Israel into striking Iran, saying the Oman-mediated path of negotiations convinced him Iran would attack the United States. He also floated the idea that Iran should be led by an insider rather than Reza Pahlavi and warned that a leadership change could replicate the current regime. The remarks highlight the controversial rationale behind potential U.S.-Israel military action in the region.

World War III Erupts as US-Israel Attack Iran, Nostradamus Prophecy

As tensions rise between the US, Israel and Iran, debates intensify over Nostradamus' prophecies, but experts warn they are symbolic and not predictive; diplomacy remains key to preventing escalation.

Foreign Minister Sugiono Orders Indonesian Ambassador to Iran to Evacuate Indonesian Citizens

Foreign Minister Sugiono orders the Indonesian Ambassador to Iran to begin staged evacuations of Indonesian citizens amid escalating Middle East tensions; he says the situation will be monitored and the President seeks a mediating role in de-escalation.

Oesman Sapta reiterates position on GKSR

Oesman Sapta Odang emphasised that GKSR is a constitutional movement that defends inclusive democracy, not an anti-system group. The organisation advocates lowering the parliamentary threshold after arguing the four-percent bar wastes millions of votes in the 2024 elections; OSO, Hanura chair, called for reforms to ensure no vote is wasted and democracy remains inclusive.

Adhiya Muzzaki Acquitted in Obstruction of Investigation in Three Corruption Cases

Adhiya Muzzaki has been acquitted of obstruction of investigation charges in three corruption cases, including tin commodity governance, sugar import at the Ministry of Trade, and permits for exporting crude palm oil. The court ruled there was no proven malicious intent to obstruct investigations, and ordered his release from custody with restoration of his rights. The decision notes that the acts were not to be treated in a corruption trial, and mentions a related defendant previously facing an 8-year term.

3,000 Umrah Pilgrims from West Java Still in Saudi Arabia — Here Is Their Situation

About 3,000 Umrah pilgrims from West Java remain in Saudi Arabia as the US-Israel–Iran tensions persist. Officials say the pilgrims are continuing their rites and that return flights—on Saudi Airlines, Lion Air and Garuda Indonesia—are proceeding as normal.

Gibran and Jokowi ride together after attending a cordial gathering with Prabowo

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka accompanied President Joko Widodo in a single car after attending a cordial gathering and discussions on national issues with President Prabowo Subianto at Istana Merdeka, Jakarta on Tuesday night. Jokowi left the meeting with Ma’ruf Amin, while Prabowo led a three-and-a-half-hour session that included former presidents and senior ministers from the Red-White Cabinet; Gibran joined Prabowo for the talks.

KPK Reveals Sting Operation Against Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq Over Outsourcing Procurement Corruption

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detailed a sting operation against Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq in connection with alleged outsourcing procurement irregularities within the Pekalongan Regency Government in Central Java. The agency says some procurements across multiple departments may have been manipulated to favour certain vendors, with suspects to be processed under KUHAP within 24 hours. The report also outlines several earlier OTTs in 2026 involving other regional officials in tax, extortion, and customs matters.

OJK refunds Rp167 billion to scam victims as of February 2026

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) says it has refunded Rp167 billion to 1,072 scam victims via the Indonesia Anti-Scam Center (IASC) by 26 February 2026. IASC has logged 477,600 scam reports affecting 809,355 accounts, blocking thousands of accounts and phone numbers, and OJK has received tens of thousands of consumer protection requests and complaints across banking, fintech and other sectors, prompting sanctions against several financial services providers.

Foreign Minister Says 15 Indonesian Nationals in Tehran Have Requested Evacuation: We Are Arranging It

Indonesia's Foreign Minister directed the ambassador in Tehran to take immediate steps to evacute Indonesians who wish to be evacuated amid rising Middle East tensions. He noted that not all Indonesians in affected areas want evacuation, but 15 in Tehran have expressed willingness, and the government is arranging a phased process given airspace remains closed.

South Jakarta Apartment Buyers File Complaint With Komnas HAM Over Difficulties in Securing the AJB

South Jakarta apartment buyers have filed a complaint with Komnas HAM alleging rights violations connected to their attempts to obtain the Akta Jual Beli (AJB). The group says the developer blocked ownership by unilaterally deducting 20% from payments and disputes persist amid bankruptcy and asset recovery processes that have stalled construction on the 45 Antasari project.

Cutting Import Dependence: Danantara and INA Invest USD 200 Million in CA-EDC Project in Cilegon

Danantara Indonesia, the Indonesia Investment Authority (INA) and Chandra Asri Group signed a Conditional Share Subscription Agreement to fund a Chlor Alkali – Ethylene Dichloride (CA-EDC) plant in Cilegon, Banten. The USD 200 million investment, part of a USD 800 million project, aims to boost domestic Caustic Soda and EDC production, reduce import dependence, support downstream processing, and create thousands of jobs during construction and operation, with first production expected in 2027. The project is part of the National Strategic Projects programme and seeks to strengthen the domestic supply chain and enhance Indonesia's export potential.

Prabowo discusses Gulf escalation and its impact on Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto convened a 3.5-hour meeting at Istana Merdeka with senior figures to discuss the escalation in the Gulf and its implications for Indonesia, including security and the economy. Noer Hassan Wirajuda described the exchange, noting concerns about a potentially protracted conflict and a weakened rule-based international order, with attendees considering Indonesia's strategic positioning.

Foreign Minister orders Indonesian Ambassador in Iran to take immediate steps to evacuate Indonesian citizens

Indonesia's Foreign Minister has directed the ambassador in Tehran to promptly initiate evacuation steps for Indonesian citizens in Iran amid escalating Middle East tensions. While not all Indonesians there wish to return, a number are willing to be evacuated and the operation will be staged; President Prabowo Subianto has signalled readiness to act as a mediator and diplomacy with Iran continues.

Foreign Minister Orders Indonesian Ambassador to Iran

Indonesia's Foreign Minister, Sugiono, has ordered the Indonesian Ambassador to Iran, Rolliansyah Soemirat, to promptly implement evacuation measures for Indonesian citizens amid escalating Middle East tensions. While not all Indonesians in Iran wish to return home, several are prepared to be evacuated, and the operation will be staged; the situation will continue to be monitored. President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised readiness to face any possible consequences and aims to be a mediator to de-escalate tensions, including diplomacy with Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

Former Foreign Minister Reveals Details of Prabowo's Discussion with Former Presidents and Vice Presidents

Former Foreign Minister Hasan Wirajuda describes President Prabowo Subianto's discussion with former presidents and vice-presidents, focusing on the widening Middle East conflict and its potential ripple effects on the global order and energy markets. Prabowo warned that the UN’s role is waning and that the rules-based order is largely on paper, urging Indonesia to consider security and economic implications, including oil and gas supply.

Strengthening Cold-Chain Interconnectivity Based on Regional State-Owned Enterprises for National Food Security

Indonesia's central and regional governments are pursuing stronger interconnectivity of the food cold chain via regional state-owned enterprises (BUMD), addressing regulatory gaps, higher costs and storage capacity to bolster national food security. The plan involves legal frameworks for capital participation, energy incentives, and supply-volume guarantees, informed by regional data and multi-stakeholder collaboration.

Not Only the Regent, the KPK Also Brings the Regional Secretary and Several Department Heads from Pekalongan to Jakarta

The KPK has questioned around 11 officials from Pekalongan Regency, including the Regional Secretary and several department heads, in connection with an operation involving Regent Fadia Arafiq. Investigations began in the early hours on Tuesday and most suspects, documents and vehicles were transported to Jakarta later that day; Fadia Arafiq was not questioned at Pekalongan, according to authorities.

LPOI urges end to war and backs Prabowo as mediator

Indonesia's LPOI has called for an immediate halt to the US-Israel war against Iran and backed President Prabowo Subianto to mediate, urging proactive peace diplomacy and humanitarian corridors. It warns that modern armed conflict triggers food crises, energy disruption, displacement and global economic instability, with civilians as the primary victims, and argues Indonesia's free and active foreign policy gives it legitimacy to bridge geopolitical divides.

Imsak Schedule for Today, 4 March 2026, in Jogja and Surroundings

The article provides the imsak and Subuh timings for Jogja and surrounding areas for 4 March 2026, citing official data from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and offering guidance on what nullifies or does not nullify fasting. It also explains the interpretation of imsak and contains practical instructions for accessing imsak schedules across Indonesia, supported by Bank Syariah Indonesia.

How the Murder of a Pakistani National Couple in Puncak, Bogor Was First Revealed

Police explained how the murders of Mohammad Afzal and Firza Afzal, a Pakistani national couple in Cisarua, Bogor, came to light. After villagers reported unusual activity at the victims’ shop and bloodstains at the house, officers traced a 22-year-old suspect from Batu Layang and arrested him; investigators say he attempted to conceal the bodies by moving them to Padalarang. The killings involved machete wounds and gunshot injuries and occurred on the night of 1 March.

Environment and Forestry Minister Announces Heavy Sentences for 15 Suspects in Headless Elephant Killing

Environment and Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni announced heavy penalties for 15 suspects in the headless elephant killing in Ukui sub-district, Pelalawan, Riau. Eight suspects are in Riau and seven outside the province, with three still at large. The case underscores the government's crackdown on wildlife crime and the stringent penalties for offences against protected species.

Announcement! Foreign Minister Sugiono Announces Plan to Evacuate 15 Indonesian Citizens from Tehran

Foreign Minister Sugiono announced a plan to evacuate 15 Indonesian citizens from Tehran, subject to individuals' willingness and logistical considerations, including airspace closures. Evacuation would involve transporting them to Baku, Azerbaijan, in a roughly ten-hour journey, with timing to be determined. No requests have yet been received from Indonesians in neighbouring countries.

Kadin: The business sector is ready to synergise to face the global crisis

Anindya Bakrie, the chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin), says closer collaboration between government and business is essential to navigate global uncertainty, including tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran. He argues unity can help sustain growth, keep inflation in check, and support job creation and entrepreneurship, while highlighting opportunities amid global pressures. The business sector is ready to back government programmes, including social initiatives to energise regional economies, and accepts that oil-price increases will be mitigated by government schemes.

BSKDN Chief Emphasises Eight Principles of Science-Based Innovation

Yusharto Huntoyungo urged that eight science-based principles should guide regional innovation, stressing openness, public participation and accountability. He highlighted the IID framework and Ngawi Regency’s 'Very Innovative' status—scoring 88.58 with 250 innovations—as evidence of progress in regional governance. The remarks underscore a broader push for evidence-based reform across Indonesia’s local administrations.

Bapanas: Strategic food supply remains secure despite geopolitical turmoil

Indonesia's National Food Agency (Bapanas) says food availability through Eid al-Fitr 2026 will remain secure, supported by domestic production and a forecasted national surplus. Nine strategic staple commodities are expected to be self-sufficient, with rice projected to show a significant surplus by end-April 2026, indicating resilience amid global tensions.

SMI Boss Reveals Strategy to Keep NPL Ratio for Infrastructure Financing Below 1 Per Cent for Five Years

PT Sarana Multi Infrastruktur (PT SMI), the Ministry of Finance's infrastructure financing arm, says its non-performing loan ratio has remained under 1% for five consecutive years, with a net NPL of 0.45% as of December 2025. The company attributes this to a comprehensive risk-management framework, strong provisioning, and consistent credit growth, supported by high credit quality ratings and a robust loan-loss cushion.

Beef price in Bandung hits Rp160,000 per kilogram

Beef prices at the Kosambi traditional market in Bandung briefly rose to Rp160,000 per kilogram amid Ramadan demand, prompting national food authorities to conduct field checks. Traders report stock remains available, with prices expected to climb further toward Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah.

On the Middle East, Prabowo says Indonesia must be ready to face any eventuality

President Prabowo Subianto says Indonesia must be ready to face any eventuality as tensions rise in the Middle East. The government has ordered evacuation steps for Indonesian citizens in Iran who wish to return, and Indonesia has signalled it could act as a mediator to cool the regional escalation. The discussions at the Merdeka Palace brought together former presidents and vice presidents, former foreign ministers, and party chiefs to review geopolitics and diplomacy.

After 3.5 hours accompanying Prabowo, Gibran travels home in the same car as Jokowi

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka accompanied President Joko Widodo to Istana Merdeka for an event hosted by President Prabowo Subianto, receiving former presidents and former vice-presidents. The meeting lasted around 3.5 hours, beginning at 7:30 p.m. WIB, with Jokowi and Gibran departing in the same car as Syarif sat beside the driver. Prabowo invited former presidents and vice-presidents to discuss a range of issues, including geopolitical developments.

Transnational Collaboration: Laznas Yakesma and TDV Distribute Ifthar Packages and Ramadan Hampers

Laznas Yakesma and Türkiye Diyanet Vakfı distributed 1,000 ifthar packages and 500 Ramadan hampers to residents in Kalisari, Pasar Rebo, East Jakarta, highlighting ongoing Indonesia–Türkiye humanitarian cooperation during Ramadan. The operation took place at Markaz Qur’an Kalisari with participation from government officials and representatives from both organisations, and underscored plans to expand joint humanitarian programmes across Indonesia.

Bapanas: Synergy with Polri to Strengthen Food Price Control

The Indonesian National Food Agency (Bapanas) says its collaboration with the Indonesian National Police (Polri) strengthens efforts to curb staple food prices and maintain supply stability ahead of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 2026. Officials report positive results from field monitoring, with the Saber Pangan Task Force supervising thousands of traders, retailers and distributors, and emphasising upstream action beyond retailers to keep prices within the Highest Retail Price (HET) and Purchase Reference Price (HAP).

Condemnation of Military Attack on Iran, AMPG Urges Government to Take a Firm Stance in the International Forum

Said Aldi Al Idrus, head of AMPG, condemns the US-Israel attack that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on 28 February 2026, warning of breaches of international law and the risk of a wider conflict. He also echoed Golkar's call for Indonesia to adopt a firm position in international forums, urging diplomacy via the OIC and the UN to stop the violence and pursue a ceasefire, given potential global economic and security impacts.

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs reviews Balikpapan refinery to ensure BBM supply

The Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs visited Pertamina Balikpapan Refinery to assess progress on the RDMP Balikpapan as part of national energy resilience and to guarantee BBM supplies ahead of Eid al-Fitr amid tensions in the Middle East. The refinery reported RDMP progress above 97% with production running well, and authorities urged continued safeguarding of BBM stocks.

Chandra Asri Partners With Danantara and INA to Build CA-EDC Plant Worth US$800 Million

Chandra Asri Group, through its subsidiary Chandra Asri Alkali, signed a Conditional Share Subscription Agreement with Danantara Indonesia and the Indonesia Investment Authority to invest up to US$200 million each in an US$800 million Chlor Alkali – Ethylene Dichloride plant in Cilegon, Banten. The first phase will produce 400,000 tpa of dry caustic soda and 500,000 tpa of EDC, part of a national strategic project to boost downstream chemistry, reduce imports, and strengthen domestic supply chains. The investment is expected to support up to 3,000 jobs during construction and 250 during operation and to bolster Indonesia's industrial competitiveness.

Middle East conflict: West Java provincial government opens emergency hotline

West Java has launched a dedicated hotline to monitor and safeguard residents in the Middle East amid ongoing hostilities. The service, run by the province's Public Relations and Information Office, coordinates with the central government to assist those affected, including migrant workers, students and Umrah pilgrims, with evacuation efforts complicated by airspace closures.

Tackling Inflationary Pressures, Generali Indonesia Launches GEN Shariah Perlindungan Aman

Indonesia faces rising living costs as inflation remains persistent. Generali Indonesia launches GEN Shariah Perlindungan Aman, a sharia-compliant life protection product with Wakaf features aimed at helping families cope with cost-of-living increases, while aligning with Islamic principles.

Imsak Schedule for Mataram City and NTB Region Today, 4 March 2026

The article provides Imsak (pre-dawn) and Subuh times for Mataram and surrounding NTB areas on Tuesday, 4 March 2026, according to Bimas Islam Kemenag RI. It explains the purpose of sahur, and directs readers to DetikHikmah for broader Indonesian Ramadan timetables, before presenting sample niat Ramadhan prayers.

Trump on Attacks on Iran: We Have Been Very Successful

US President Donald Trump said the strikes on Iran went as planned and claimed that Iran's navy, air force, and air defence systems had been destroyed, while acknowledging continued missile launches at Gulf neighbours. The report also notes that 300 Iranians fled to Pakistan, arriving in Balochistan, a province bordering Iran, a region with long-running separatist tensions.

Prabowo Holds Nearly Four-Hour Talks with SBY, Jokowi and JK, Discuss Iran War

President Prabowo Subianto held a late-evening meeting at Istana Merdeka with former presidents, a former vice-president, party leaders and a former foreign minister to discuss geopolitical developments and Indonesia's readiness amid global tensions, with a focus on energy. Hassan Wirajuda outlined updates on the Iran situation and its potential implications for the world and Indonesia, including oil and gas supply risks. The discussion emphasised navigating a shifting international order and the domestic political and economic consequences of prolonged conflict.

Delving into the Ocean of Wisdom Behind the Calamity, Haji Suryo Builds Bridges of Goodwill and Funds a Victim's Child’s Education

Haji Muhammad Suryo, founder of Surya Group, is improving after a motorcycle accident that also claimed his wife. He and his company are covering Abdullah and Deva's medical care, gifting a new motorcycle, and funding Deva's education to university level. The generosity illustrates private-sector philanthropy and social responsibility in Yogyakarta's Kulon Progo region.

North Sumatra Police Detain 17 People Suspected of Illegal Gold Mining at Border Between South Tapanuli and Mandailing Natal

The North Sumatra Regional Police detained 17 people on suspicion of involvement in illegal gold mining at the border between South Tapanuli and Mandailing Natal regencies. The detainees are currently witnesses, with suspects to be named after further questioning; authorities are also investigating ownership and control of the large-scale operation. A haul of 14 excavators was seized, and evacuation of the machinery is planned from the forest to a Brimob facility, a process likely to take one to two days.

Kakorlantas Launches Safety Campaign Through Song 'Mudik Tertib, Ojo Kesusu'

The Indonesian traffic police chief unveiled a new song to promote road safety ahead of Lebaran, emphasising orderly driving and patience. The campaign also introduced the slogan Mudik Aman, Keluarga Bahagia, and highlighted security considerations during the homecoming period.

Indonesia targets first nuclear power plant by 2032–2034

Indonesia plans its first nuclear power plant by 2032–2034 as part of a broader aim to have 44 gigawatts of nuclear capacity by 2060 in support of its net-zero drive. The initial target is 500 megawatts from 2032, deployed in Sumatra and Kalimantan, with a strong emphasis on small modular reactors. The policy rests on the 1997 Nuclear Energy Act and the 2025 National Energy Policy Regulation, and Indonesia is pursuing site selection, regulatory milestones and international cooperation, while facing costs, political hurdles and public safety concerns.

West Java on full standby, awaiting instructions for evacuation of Indonesian citizens in the Middle East

West Java's provincial government says it is on full standby awaiting instructions to carry out a mass evacuation of West Java residents in Middle Eastern countries, following escalating hostilities between the US-Israel bloc and Iran. The operation would be coordinated under the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with data gathered from each Indonesian Embassy; officials say no evacuation order has yet been issued as contingency plans are prepared.

Sterile Injectable Drug Plant Capacity Surges as Production Line Expansions Accelerated

PT Ethica Industri Farmasi (PT EIF), the sterile injectable producer under PT Pyridam Farma Tbk (PYFA), has completed the capacity expansion for Line 3, with the line due to be inaugurated in April 2026. Facing full capacity, the company is accelerating the development of Lines 4, 5 and 6 to meet rising hospital demand. The expansion aims to triple productivity and bolster sterile dosage production, while aligning with cGMP, PIC/S, EU GMP and TGA standards to support export growth.

OT Group and Brotherhood Jakarta Distribute Thousands of Takjil at a Strategic Junction

OT Group, in collaboration with the Brotherhood Bikers Community (BBC) Jakarta, distributed thousands of takjil packages at the Tomang junction in West Jakarta during Ramadan, featuring OT products such as Teh Gelas, Tango Wafer, Imperial Creme, Roppang and Cannon Ball. The event, part of the company’s community engagement, highlighted solidarity with urban residents and included a 13th anniversary celebration by BBC Jakarta, alongside a 250-kilogram tempeh distribution as a further Iftar treat.

Bahlil to increase BBM stock storage capacity from 25 days to 90 days

Indonesia plans to boost its BBM storage capacity to 90 days (three months) from the current 25–26 days to improve energy resilience. The feasibility study is underway, with construction targeted to begin in 2026 in Sumatra, and current stock levels of crude, BBM and LPG reportedly above national minimum standards.

Indonesian Ambassador to UAE visits a number of Indonesian nationals still stranded in Abu Dhabi

Indonesian Ambassador to the UAE Judha Nugraha personally visited Indonesians stranded in Abu Dhabi amid airspace closures in the Middle East. He visited four people in Al Reef and emphasised the diaspora’s solidarity and the government’s commitment to their safety. A total of 41 Indonesians have registered with the Indonesian embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General in Dubai, with cases prioritised by urgency for repatriation due to work, family or health reasons.

SBY, Jokowi, and JK Leave the Palace After 3.5-Hour Meeting with Prabowo

Former presidents and vice-presidents of Indonesia left the Merdeka Palace after a roughly 3.5-hour discussion with President Prabowo Subianto. Jokowi and Ma'ruf Amin departed at 23:13 local time, followed by SBY and Boediono at 23:15, with the meeting reportedly involving senior political figures to discuss geopolitical and other issues.

Jokowi and Gibran Return Home Together in the Same Car After Attending Discussion with Prabowo at the Presidential Palace

After a four-hour national discourse with President Prabowo Subianto, President Joko Widodo and his eldest son, Vice President Gibran Rakabuming, left the Istana Merdeka in the same car. The departure of former leaders and senior officials followed as the discussions concluded, with Prabowo inviting various figures to share views on current conditions, including geopolitical issues, though details were not disclosed.

Ulema council calls for bolstering food security amid Mideast tensions

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) Deputy Chairman Cholil Nafis warned that Middle East tensions could push up oil prices and disrupt fuel supplies, risking Indonesia’s economy which still imports fuel. He urged strengthening national food security to minimise the impact and prevent domestic security issues, while backing President Prabowo’s mediation efforts and stressing a free, active foreign policy aligned with national interests. Nafis called for restraint to prevent the conflict from escalating into a regional or global war and emphasised the duty to pursue world peace.

Not an Ordinary Bicycle: When Cycling and Sharing Become One Movement During Ramadan

Not an Ordinary Bicycle is a Ramadan initiative by Susu Mbok Darmi as part of the #JadiLebihBaik campaign, pairing an 11 km cycle ride in Bogor with a kultum on steadfastness and a takjil distribution drive under the Bogor Berbagi programme. The event blends sport, spirituality, and social engagement, aiming to turn a simple ride into a broader movement that connects communities and local brands.

Purbaya: The state budget remains strong to face a global crisis

Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says the APBN remains robust to prolonged global crises, including Middle East escalations, with contingency plans discussed after a meeting with President Prabowo Subianto. January–February 2026 tax and customs receipts rose around 30%, signaling economic improvement. The government has modelled oil-price scenarios for the current fiscal year, suggesting absorption is possible unless prices become extreme.

Govt grants emergency stay to foreigners due to Middle East conflict

Indonesia's Ngurah Rai Immigration Office has issued 54 ITKT temporary stay permits for foreign nationals affected by flight disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict, each valid for 30 days and extendable for another 30 days if needed. Applicants must provide an airline cancellation letter, their passport, and proof of cancelled tickets; the office reported requests from nationals including the Netherlands, France, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, and others. The policy includes a waiver of overstay fines during the emergency, with a same-day issuance process and a help desk at Ngurah Rai Airport, as data show 4,426 foreigners affected between Feb 28 and March 2. This reflects Indonesia's policy response to regional airline disruptions and security considerations.

Purbaya Reveals Indonesia's Economic Resilience Amid Iran–US–Israel War

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says tax receipts rose 30% in January–February, signalling resilience in Indonesia's economy amid the Iran–US–Israel escalation. The ministry has modelled oil-price scenarios for a year and believes the economy can absorb moderate increases, but extreme prices would require a recalculation.

BGN: Ramadan MBG Menu Rumours Are Hoaxes

Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Nanik Sudaryati Deyang, lamented a deluge of attacks on the MBG (Free Nutritious Meals) menu during Ramadan, insisting that most circulating rumours are hoaxes. At a coordination meeting in Semarang, she urged Central Java's regents and mayors to actively monitor MBG implementation, including the preparation and presentation of MBG menus, and suggested kitchen checks during Ramadan to defuse tensions. The gathering was attended by senior officials including Zulkifli Hasan, Dadan Hindayana, Abdul Mu'ti and Arifah Fauzi.

BGN Says Much of the Negative Reporting About the Ramadan MBG Menu Is a Hoax

The Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has attributed the bulk of criticism of the Ramadan Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) menu to misinformation, calling many reports hoaxes. At a Central Java coordination meeting in Semarang, officials urged governors and mayors to actively monitor MBG implementation, including how MBG dishes are prepared and presented, with a suggestion to verify kitchens during Ramadhan to help calm tensions.

Concerns Over a Prolonged War and How Much the U.S. Is Spending to Fight Iran?

Daily costs of the U.S. operation against Iran are running into hundreds of millions of dollars, with the first 24 hours at about $779 million and preceding mobilisations around $630 million, per Anadolu Agency and The Wall Street Journal. The Center for a New American Security estimates carrier group costs at about $6.5 million per day, while reports note losses, including at least three U.S. combat aircraft downed in Kuwait, and The Times questions the affordability of war under a $1 trillion defence budget for 2026.

Daop 2 reiterates criminal penalties for violators of railway tracks

KAI Daop 2 Bandung says there are criminal penalties and fines for people who violate or engage in illicit activities around railway tracks, urging the public to safeguard rail facilities ahead of Lebaran 2026. The rail corridor is a restricted area, not a public space, with prohibitions including walking, taking photographs, or 'ngabuburit' near crossings, under the Railways Act. The agency is partnering with railfan groups to educate the public at Jalan Laswi crossing and stresses that safety is a shared responsibility.

OJK reveals factors behind the slowdown in MSME lending over the past year

The Indonesian financial regulator OJK has outlined factors behind the slowdown in credit disbursement to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the past year, citing global and domestic economic dynamics, shifting consumer spending, and higher MSME credit risk. It notes that MSME recovery lagges corporate sectors and that, as of January 2026, loan disbursements reached Rp1,482.99 trillion, with government programs like KUR expected to bolster lending.

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Agus Jabo to Oversee Permanent People's Schools in Mukomuko

Deputy Minister of Social Affairs Agus Jabo Priyono pledges to push for permanent 'People's Schools' in Mukomuko, Bengkulu, aiming to enter phase III within the year and to begin operations in 2027, as part of a nationwide drive to ensure every district has at least one such school. The plan, which also touches on disaster preparedness, has been welcomed by local government, which has prepared land for the project.

Viral Woman in Pamekasan Stops Funeral, Brings Up Rp215 Million Debt

A viral incident in Ragung village, Sampang Regency, Madura, involves an unidentified woman who halted a funeral to demand repayment of debts owed by the deceased, including 50 grams of 24-karat gold and an overall Rp215 million. The episode has sparked online debate about debt, heirs, and social norms surrounding bereavement.

Lawyers: KPK Lacks Sufficient Evidence to Charge Yaqut as Haj Suspect

Yaqut Cholil Qoumas’s legal team argues that the KPK lacked two valid, pre-existing pieces of evidence before naming him a suspect in the Haj quota corruption case, and that the designation did not meet KUHAP requirements. They challenge the grounds used—including Ministerial Regulation No. 130 of 2024—and seek to annul the three Sprindik the KPK relied on. The case has seen raids and measures such as immigration prohibitions against Yaqut and his aide, Ishfah Abidal Aziz (Gus Alex).

Imsak Schedule Today, 4 March 2026, Across Indonesia’s Three Time Zones

The article presents today’s imsak timetable for Indonesia’s three time zones (WIB, WITA, WIT), with schedules for Jakarta, Denpasar and Jayapura, reinforcing the need to align sahur and imsak accordingly. It also includes the Ramadan niat (intention) in Arabic and its translation, underscoring guidance for Muslims observing Ramadan.