Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 6 March 2026

Showing 1,001-1,500 of 2,312 articles

BYD unveils Blade Battery 2.0 with ultra-fast charging

BYD has unveiled Blade Battery generation two, Blade Battery 2.0, featuring ultra-fast charging. The technology promises five-minute recharging from 10% to 70% and nine-minute charging from 10% to 97%, with maintained performance in extreme temperatures; the company says it offers higher energy density and longer life, and will be used across more than 10 BYD brands, with a Flash Charging strategy to build thousands of charging stations in China.

Motis Lebaran 2026 Opened: How to Register, Dates, Routes and Requirements

Registration for Motis Lebaran 2026 has opened as the government expands its free motorcycle transport scheme for Lebaran travel. The program, run by the Ministry of Transport’s Directorate General of Railways (DJKA), offers about 28,000 free passenger train tickets and more than 11,000 motorcycle transport slots. It now includes a southern route alongside the existing northern and central routes, with registration open until 29 March 2026 and outbound travel from 13–19 March, returning 24–30 March 2026.

Residents complain that Serpong railway crossing deteriorates quickly despite frequent repairs

Residents in Serpong, South Tangerang, complain that the railway crossing surface deteriorates rapidly despite repeated repairs. Local sellers describe recurring damage, slippery and uneven surfaces, with some falls, prompting calls for higher-quality work or a flyover to improve safety.

Blambangan Express train driver seriously injured in Probolinggo truck collision

A Blambangan Express train driver and its assistant were seriously injured after a collision with a freight truck carrying flour at a level crossing in JPL 13, Jorongan, Leces, Probolinggo, early on Friday. The locomotive front was badly damaged; the driver was reportedly trapped in the cab before rescue by locals and police. Police say there were no fatalities, but both crew members remain in hospital under intensive care as investigators examine the scene.

Jokowi: The Fadia Arafiq Case Should Proceed Through the Legal System

Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo has commented on the arrest of Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), saying the matter should be handled by the legal system and that due process must be respected. The KPK conducted an operation in Central Java, detaining several individuals and naming Fadia as a suspect in a case of suspected corruption in outsourcing services procurement; investigators are still probing and tracing funds.

Conversion of Bali's Rice Fields into Villas Now Leads to Criminal Prosecution

Bali Governor I Wayan Koster signed a Regional Regulation on Controlling the Conversion of Productive Land and Prohibition of Nominee Land Ownership, with penalties including criminal sanctions and demolition orders. The measure seeks to shield food sovereignty and Bali's ecological identity from aggressive property investment, targeting actors and intermediaries who facilitate land conversion, as well as civil servants.

Pursuing US dollar stability, Investors Eye the United Arab Emirates

Global economic uncertainty is driving more Indonesian high-net-worth individuals to relocate assets to the United Arab Emirates, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi attracting investment thanks to strong regulation, an efficient tax framework and a dollar-pegged currency. The trend signals broader international wealth diversification and raises questions about domestic investment dynamics.

Nutrition–Price Labelling for MBG in Jogja Yields Positive Response

The Governor of Yogyakarta has ordered the display of nutritional content and prices on MBG meals, prompting positive reactions from schools and parents who say the labels improve transparency and understanding of meal value. Officials stress that food quality remains the priority while price transparency addresses concerns about what Rp 10,000 buys.

Tilted power pole in Pademangan left unrepaired for three months

Residents say a tilted power pole on Jalan Krapu, Pademangan, North Jakarta, has been left unrepaired for about three months. They fear it could collapse and that dangling cables pose a danger to passing traffic, particularly large vehicles at night. Local residents say they plan to report it; the site is opposite the Pasar Ikan Pump Station.

Mampang Police Say the Bibi Kelinci Restaurant Case Involves Two Separate Matters

The Mampang Prapatan Police emphasise that the Bibi Kelinci Restaurant incident in Kemang, South Jakarta comprises two distinct matters filed with different police offices. One concerns a theft under Article 363 KUHP involving a couple reported by the restaurant owner, while the other concerns a CCTV video posted online, investigated by the Directorate of Cyber Crimes, with the same parties tied to separate proceedings.

Amran's Firm Remarks: Rice and Fertiliser Stocks Safe—All Calculated

Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman rejected fears that closing the Hormuz Strait could trigger a domestic food crisis, arguing that Indonesia's rice supplies are secure and not reliant on imports. He warned that the main potential risk would be fertiliser feedstock, with the government already sourcing alternatives from Russia, Laos and Australia, and claimed national stocks could cover about 324 days. Production continues monthly, supported by Bulog reserves, HoReCa stocks and standing crops.

Energy Reserves in Asian Nations: Japan 254 Days, Indonesia 23 Days

Asian governments say oil and gas supplies are secure for at least the next 30 days despite Middle East tensions, with Japan's oil reserves lasting about 254 days and China's strategic reserves at 1.5 billion barrels. The article also highlights the Strait of Hormuz as a major chokepoint for oil and LNG, underscoring potential vulnerabilities for Asia's energy imports.

Noel Ebenezer Claims Not a Single Witness Has Linked Him to K3 Certificate Extortion

Former Deputy Finance Minister Noel Ebenezer denies any witness has linked him to extortion over K3 certificate processing, suggesting the case may be a 'titipan' by businesspeople opposed to his policies. Prosecutors say extortion has existed since 2021 and Noel faces charges under the Corruption Eradication Law and the Penal Code.

Nepal counts votes after key post-uprising election

Counting was underway in Nepal on Friday after a high-stakes parliamentary election intended to reshape leadership following the September 2025 uprising. Early trends pointed to Balendra Shah and his Rastriya Swatantra Party ahead in key battlegrounds, with contenders including former prime minister KP Sharma Oli and Nepali Congress leader Gagan Thapa. Turnout stood at 59%, and full nationwide tallies could take several days, likely followed by prolonged coalition negotiations.

Iran accuses Israel of orchestrating Azerbaijan airport attack, sparking rifts among Muslim nations

Iran claims Israel orchestrated a drone strike on Azerbaijan's Nakhchivan airport to sow division among Muslim nations, while Tehran says it did not carry out the attack. Azerbaijan accuses Iran of launching the strike from Iranian territory, injuring two civilians and damaging public facilities, and has summoned the Iranian ambassador in Baku to lodge a protest. The incident heightens regional tensions amid broader Middle East and Caucasus confrontations.

Robert Downey Jr inaugurates Disney Adventure, Disney's first cruise ship in Asia

Hollywood star Robert Downey Jr. attended and officiated the launch of Disney Adventure at MBCCS, Singapore, marking Disney's first cruise ship to operate in Asia. The 6,700-passenger vessel will base in Singapore for the next five years, underscoring Asia’s growing cruise industry. The ceremony featured a godparent role and remarks from Disney executives highlighting the significance for tourism and connectivity.

Rupiah Under Pressure Near Rp17,000 per US Dollar, Here's the Culprit

The rupiah closed weaker at Rp16,925 per US dollar, down 0.12%. Analysts attribute the decline to rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, with ongoing clashes between the US, Israel and Iran heightening energy-market and inflation risk. Stronger-than-expected February US nonfarm payrolls could prompt the Federal Reserve to delay rate cuts, adding to market uncertainty.

Solid 2025 Performance, Adira Finance Prepares Ramadan 2026 Programme

Adira Finance posted solid 2025 results, with revenue of Rp12.1 trillion and net profit of Rp1.5 trillion, while NPF improved to 2.0%. The company is set to roll out Ramadan 2026 programmes targeting mobility, financial planning and worship, emphasising strong liquidity, improving financing quality and disciplined risk management as foundations for growth. It also flagged a 60% rise in vehicle bookings at IIMS Jakarta 2026 and a 300-person Ramadan mobility programme.

Türkiye intensifies diplomatic efforts amid Middle East tensions

Türkiye's president Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned that tensions in the Middle East have reached a worrying level following air strikes on Iran and urged intensified diplomacy to prevent further escalation. He said Türkiye would defend its borders and airspace in close coordination with allies, and reaffirmed multifaceted diplomatic efforts to prevent bloodshed and keep the region from spiraling out of control.

CNRRI Researchers Say Salor Transmigration Area in South Papua Has Potential to Become a Rice Hub

Researchers from the China National Rice Research Institute (CNRRI) assess Salor Transmigration Area in South Papua as a potential site for large-scale rice production, urging policy support, infrastructure improvements and international collaboration. Indonesia's Minister of Transmigration pledged land, labour, and Chinese capital and technology, while exploring distribution to Pacific neighbours beyond Java.

Ministry of Transport intensifies mudik bus inspections, to be conducted until 29 March

The Indonesian Ministry of Transportation has stepped up safety ramp checks on buses ahead of the 2026 Eid al-Fitr homecoming (mudik), with inspections running at major hubs until 29 March. Officials say about 143.9 million people are expected to undertake mudik this year; while most vehicles pass inspections, some were found deficient and barred from service. The move aims to ensure roadworthiness and safety of long-distance buses during the peak travel period.

What are PBPU and BP Pemda BPJS Kesehatan? How do they differ from PBI JK

PBPU and BP Pemda are BPJS Kesehatan membership segments for participants registered by local governments, with contributions funded by the local government through APBD. Their designation is made by the local government, unlike PBI JK which targets the poor; PBPU/BP Pemda can cover residents regardless of income. Under Perpres 59 of 2024, local governments are required to support JKN by expanding participation, ensuring premium payments, and improving health facilities; the article also explains how to perform BPJS health screening via the Mobile JKN app.

Iran launches attack targeting civilian facilities in Bahrain

Iran reportedly attacked civilian facilities in Manama, Bahrain's capital, causing material damage but no casualties, according to Bahrain's interior ministry. The ministry said the strike hit two hotels and a residential building, and civil defence teams responded to secure the area. The attack comes amid rising regional tensions linked to the war involving Israel and the United States on one side and Iran on the other, with exchanges of missiles and drones across the Middle East.

Video: Pertamina Ensures BBM and LPG Stocks Are Safe During Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr

Pertamina Patra Niaga has assured that supplies of BBM and LPG are secure and ready to meet public demand during Ramadan and ahead of Eid al-Fitr, with stock-building and distribution readiness as part of preparations.

BP3MI Riau monitors condition of woman victim of employment fraud in Cambodia

BP3MI Riau is monitoring the condition of Susi Yanti Br Sinaga, 22, from Siak Regency, who is reportedly a victim of employment fraud in Cambodia, with assistance from the Indonesian Embassy in Phnom Penh as police investigate whether the case constitutes human trafficking or an international scam.

Trump Ousted: US Advanced Weapons Supplier Ready to Challenge the Government

Anthropic, a supplier of AI tools to the US Department of Defence, is at odds with the Trump administration after a dispute over the use of its Claude AI for military applications. The DoD has placed Anthropic on a national-security supply-chain risk list, prompting the firm to threaten legal action while seeking limited exemptions; reports also suggest US operations against Iran relied on Anthropic's tools for intelligence and simulations. The dispute tests the boundaries between private-sector AI and national-security policy in Washington.

Iran delays selection of Supreme Leader citing security concerns

Iran has postponed the selection of a successor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei due to security fears linked to his son Mojtaba. The New York Times, citing sources, notes Tehran's concern that Mojtaba would succeed his father amid growing media claims. The situation unfolds alongside warnings from Israel and a series of US-Israeli strikes in the Middle East, with Tehran retaliating.

Motorcyclist killed after being struck by Transjakarta bus in Penjaringan following collision with busway separator

A 27-year-old motorcyclist identified as AP died after being struck by a Transjakarta bus in Penjaringan, North Jakarta, on Friday morning. The incident began when the rider hit a busway separator, fell into the Transjakarta lane, and was then run over by the bus, which could not stop in time. Police say both vehicles were damaged and the rider died at the scene; the incident highlights road-safety risks around bus lanes.

Impact of the Hormuz Strait Blockade as Asian Energy Companies Cut Output and Declare Force Majeure

Oil supply disruptions in the Middle East are beginning to bite Asia's energy sector, with several refineries trimming output and some petrochemical firms invoking force majeure amid disrupted feedstock. The Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for about one-fifth of global oil trade, is driving maintenance delays and a scramble for alternative supplies across China and Korea.

Bali police confirm DNA matches Ukrainian kidnapping victim

DNA tests matched maternal alleles from the victim's mother to blood found in the crime scenes, giving a 99.99% probability that the remains are Ihor Komarav. Indonesian police have named CH as a foreign suspect and issued a list of six other foreign fugitives (RM, BK, AS, VN, SM, DH) with Red Notices, coordinating with Interpol and Immigration to track them down. Investigators say possible links to foreign mafia networks after a ransom video and crime scenes linked to a rented Toyota Avanza and a villa in Tabanan.

Supported by the Salman Charity House, Grandmother Rusmini Keeps Fighting On, Accepts the Disaster with Resilience

In Aceh Tamiang, 60-year-old Rusmini and her family rebuild after a November 2025 flood that destroyed their home. Relief efforts by Rumah Amal Salman, with ITB, provide clean water access, while Ramadan aid packages from Rumah Amal Salman and Paragon Corp offer critical support. The story highlights community resilience and ongoing relief as families recover.

Agriculture Minister Reveals Indonesia's Rice Stock at 27.9 Million Tonnes, Safe for More Than 10 Months

Indonesia’s Agriculture Minister confirms total rice stocks of 27.99 million tonnes as of March 2026, enough for about 324 days (around 10.8 months), with Bulog stock rising and production holding strong. The January–May 2026 period recorded roughly 16.92 million tonnes of rice production, supported by measures such as pumping irrigation and fertiliser price reductions to bolster food security amid global and climate risks.

Akulaku Aims for Rp8.2 trillion in New Financing, Relies on Digital Ecosystem

Akulaku Finance Indonesia aims to channel Rp8.2 trillion in new financing this year, targeting 12% year-on-year growth from Rp7.44 trillion in 2025 — lower than last year’s 23% growth. The growth plan hinges on its large digital ecosystem, expanded e-commerce partnerships, and AI-based credit scoring to improve risk management and broaden penetration beyond Java, including 32% of business outside Java. It will also expand offline merchants and strengthen its funding structure to keep growth healthy and sustainable.

Dasco Highlights Social Media as a Platform for Insults: We Need National Unity

Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad calls on civil society to unite and contribute to national unity, warning that social media is becoming a platform for unhealthy criticism of government policies. He says criticisms should be constructive and nationalist in spirit, and urges patience for President Prabowo's administration to deliver on welfare promises.

Pelindo Terminal Petikemas anticipates rise in logistics flows ahead of Lebaran

Pelindo Terminal Petikemas plans to pre-stage loading operations, optimise yards, and extend hours to cope with an expected surge in logistics ahead of Lebaran, potentially up to 80% higher throughput. The company will encourage customers to use the terminal booking system to reduce congestion, while ports at Tanjung Perak are forecast to return to normal only after April.

BNI Holds Ramadan Safari, Distributes 80,000 Food Packages in 10 Cities

BNI's Ramadan Safari programme is being conducted across more than 10 Indonesian cities, distributing around 80,000 food packages and charitable assistance to orphans and the poor. The initiative began on 3 March 2026 in Batam, Bandung, Semarang and Yogyakarta, with a series of events continuing through March, culminating in Jakarta during Nuzulul Quran, and highlighting the bank's CSR commitments and community engagement during Ramadan.

Indonesia, the Board of Peace and the Free and Active Foreign Policy Dilemma

Indonesia's membership of the Board of Peace (BoP), a peace organisation established by United States President Donald Trump, has sparked a debate about its commitment to a free and active foreign policy amid US-Israel aggression against Iran. The Foreign Ministry's expression of regret over US-Iran negotiations and its offer to mediate highlight concerns that Indonesia's stance may be tilting in favour of the BoP's pro-aggressor position, raising questions about national autonomy and Indonesia's role as a potential mediator.

Police use facial composite to identify condolence-money thief in East Jakarta

Police in East Jakarta are attempting to identify a woman suspected of stealing condolence money, using a facial composite based on witness statements. The case, which has gone viral on social media and involves at least two prior similar incidents, remains under investigation as CCTV and witnesses are reviewed.

DPR to invite Nabilah O'Brien, theft victim who has become a suspect

Indonesia's Commission III of the House of Representatives plans to summon Nabilah O'Brien, owner of Bibi Kelinci Kopitiam in Kemang, who says she was the victim of theft but has been named a suspect by investigators. The hearing will involve her legal counsel and relevant law enforcement officers as part of parliamentary oversight. Nabilah is urging the Commission and Police Chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo to ensure legal certainty and justice for her after speaking out on social media.

NTB Governor Urges Residents to Preserve Forests

The Governor of West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), Lalu Muhamad Iqbal, calls on communities to strengthen commitment to protecting forest ecosystems and greening tourist areas in the region, during a tree-planting event at Air Terjun Benang Kelambu in Lombok Tengah. He links deforestation to recent natural disasters after touring NTB, noting floods at 14 locations following three days of rain, and frames Ramadan as a time to refrain from harming the environment. He pledges greater support for forestry officers and advocates a humane approach to nearby communities.

11 Animals Mentioned in the Qur'an: Ants, Monkeys and Camels

The article surveys animals named in the Qur'an, noting their roles as signs of Allah's greatness, in the narratives of prophets, and as moral exemplars, with examples such as the whale that swallowed Prophet Yunus and references to the story of Bani Isra'il with a cow. It highlights the varied roles of animal mentions and their perceived benefits to humans.

WhatsApp developing subscription service named WhatsApp Plus

WhatsApp is reportedly developing a new paid subscription for standard WhatsApp users called WhatsApp Plus. The feature, still in development, would be available on Android and iOS with monthly pricing and would offer UI customization, up to 20 pinned chats, and exclusive ringtones, while core messaging and security features would remain free. No official price or launch date has been announced.

Bekasi moneylender allegedly holds 9-month-old baby hostage over parents' debt, reportedly planned to sell him

A 40-year-old moneylender's associate is suspected of abducting a nine-month-old baby in Cakung, East Jakarta, from February to March 2026. The infant, identified as A, was allegedly posted for sale on WhatsApp by the suspect, with the baby's parents alleging the motive stems from an unpaid debt of Rp 1.3 million to the suspect's boss. The case has been reported to the Bekasi Kota Police, and the child was recovered after efforts by the parents.

VICE PRESIDENT Gibran CHAIRS FLOOD RESPONSE COORDINATION MEETING IN TUBAN

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming chaired a flood management coordination meeting with regional authorities and stakeholders at the PT Semen Indonesia offices in Tuban, East Java. He urged rapid action on flood impacts, restoration of public facilities, and proactive planning to prevent future floods, warning of disease risks and continuing extreme weather.

Hundreds of Foreigners Granted Emergency Residence Permits in Bali Amid Middle East Conflict

More than 300 foreign nationals have been granted emergency residence permits (ITKT) in Bali amid the Middle East crisis, with 244 issued by Ngurah Rai and 58 by Denpasar. The 30-day permits can be extended as conditions allow, and the government is waiving fines for overstay due to flight cancellations. Flights to the Middle East (Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi) remain restricted and a wave of cancellations has left thousands unable to travel as of early March.

NTT Region Iftar Schedule Today, 6 March / 16 Ramadan

The article provides the Ramadan iftar times for the NTT region and surrounding areas for Friday, 6 March 2026 / 16 Ramadan 1447 H, listing Maghrib and Isha times for multiple districts. It also covers recommended supplications to recite at iftar, citing Ustadz Adi Hidayat and sources such as Almanhaj and detikBali.

To Deter Immoral Acts, Three Floodlights Reinstalled at Cawang City Park

East Jakarta City Government has installed three floodlights in Cawang City Forest Park to improve night-time visibility and safety. The work included pruning 30 trees and involved 14 personnel from the Green Task Force, with a ladder truck and an open-back truck deployed. The initiative followed reports of illicit activity and led to the permanent closure of two park entrances amid concerns at night.

Indonesia Has Stock but No Strategic Energy Reserve

Indonesia's energy resilience is shown to be vulnerable, as the country currently lacks an adequate Strategic Petroleum Reserve. The available stock is only operational inventory held by companies, and storing energy reserves would require enormous funds.

Purbaya Distributes THR to ASN, TNI and Polri, Check Your Account Now!

THR payments have begun for ASN, including PNS, PPPK, TNI, and Polri, with Rp1.40663 trillion disbursed to 300,530 recipients as of 5 March 2026. The government has set aside Rp55 trillion for THR this year, covering pensions and other officials. Retirees have also received Rp11.22 trillion in THR through Taspen and Asabri.

BNI Strengthens Synergy with Merchants Through BNI wondrful Iftar 2026

BNI hosted a Ramadan Iftar with around 70 merchants at the Fairmont Jakarta to deepen partnerships and promote digital payment solutions. The event, attended by BNI's leadership, showcased innovations including the wondr Merchant app with same-day settlement and 24-hour transaction monitoring, and reiterated BNI's commitment to supporting merchants within Indonesia's digital banking ecosystem.

Judge warns visitors not to disrupt verdict reading for Delpedro and associates

At the Central Jakarta District Court, the presiding judge urged spectators at the verdict-reading for the case involving Delpedro Marhaen and three co-defendants linked to protests that turned violent in August 2025 to remain quiet. He warned that noise could interrupt the proceedings, and security was asked to manage crowd behaviour. Prosecutors are seeking a two-year prison term for the defendants.

FILONOMICS: The Hormuz Strait Closed, Is the World on the Brink of Famine?

An agricultural economist warns that a blockade of the Hormuz Strait amid Middle East tensions could trigger a global food crisis and push up fertiliser costs. He notes that 45% of the world's urea fertiliser exports come from the Gulf, so disruptions could raise international prices and feed into higher domestic costs in Indonesia, with possible increases in subsidies and fiscal pressure.

Damri Opens New Jakarta–Denpasar Route, Fare Rp590,000

Damri has launched a direct Jakarta–Denpasar bus route, currently in a trial phase with limited weekly trips, as demand for cross-island land travel grows ahead of peak travel periods. The service will depart from multiple Jakarta points with a standard fare of around Rp590,000, and could increase frequency if demand remains strong.

France to send armoured personnel carriers to Lebanon

France plans to bolster cooperation with Lebanon's armed forces by supplying armoured personnel carriers and offering operational and logistical support. Macron says he has spoken with Lebanese leaders to develop plans to end the Israel–Hezbollah confrontation, reiterates calls for Israel to halt ground operations, and announces humanitarian aid for displaced civilians in Lebanon.

Finance Ministry Applauds Rp58.1 Billion Judol Seizure by Bareskrim: Supports State Fiscal

The Indonesian Finance Ministry welcomed Bareskrim's use of Perma 1/2013 in handling the online gambling money-laundering case, with Rp58.1 billion seized to be executed by prosecutors. The move highlights the government's efforts to optimise non-tax state revenue and strengthen fiscal governance, emphasising legal certainty and transparent reporting.

Railway Crossing in Serpong Damaged, Many Motorists Get Stuck as Road Becomes Slippery

The railway crossing near Serpong Station in Tangerang Selatan is in a deteriorated state with the road surface littered with stones and soil, causing motorists to slow and navigate cautiously. Residents say repairs are short-lived and call for more durable fixes, with some proposing a flyover as a long-term safety solution. The issue underscores ongoing concerns about infrastructure maintenance and road safety in the area.

Conflict Widens: How Long Can Iran Sustain the War?

On the third day of the US-Israel strikes against Iran, Tehran says it is prepared for a protracted confrontation and will defend itself at any cost. Iran has retaliated with missiles and drones toward Israel and Gulf bases, while observers warn Tehran retains significant capability and aims to prolong the conflict amid rising civilian suffering.

Long fuel queues at several SPBU in Jember

Long queues for fuel persisted at several SPBU in Jember as residents reported shortages and stockpiling. Authorities and Pertamina reassured that stock levels are ample, urging restraint to prevent congestion, while police managed traffic to avoid gridlock around stations.

Fraud and Illegal Online Lending Surges; BI Chief Says Financial Inclusion Must Be Coupled with Financial Literacy

BI Governor Perry Warjiyo warned that rising risks in digital finance—from illegal online lending to fraud—make the strengthening of financial literacy essential to protect the public. As access to digital financial services grows each year, inclusion must be matched by literacy; SNLIK 2025 puts financial inclusion at 92.74%, nearing the government's 98% target for 2045 under the RPJPN 2025–2045. Yet literacy stands at only 66.46%, Perry said, and raising it is necessary to ensure people can safely access and manage financial services.

Police Urge Homebound Travellers Not to Stop on Toll Road Shoulders When Rest Areas Are Full

Indonesian police have urged mudik travellers to avoid stopping on toll road shoulders if rest areas are full, advising them to exit the tollway and seek the next rest area. They also plan to expand facilities at rest areas Type A and B and to increase the number of Public Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (SPKLU) as more electric vehicles are expected.

Why did a drone believed to be Iranian strike Nakhchivan International Airport in Azerbaijan?

A drone attack attributed to Iran struck Nakhchivan International Airport in Azerbaijan, injuring several civilians and prompting Tehran to deny involvement while pointing to possible Israeli involvement. The incident follows broader regional escalation and signals Iran’s willingness to use asymmetric actions to counter perceived Western and Israeli influence in the region.

Komnas: Sexual Violence Dominates Violence Against Women in 2025

The Komnas Perempuan annual report for 2025 shows sexual violence as the leading form of violence against women, with 22,848 cases. It highlights differences across personal, public and state domains and notes West Java as the province with the highest number of cases.

Pramono Anung Wibowo invites the public to mudik to Jakarta to save on fuel

Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo urged people to mudik to Jakarta to conserve fuel amid escalating US–Israel–Iran tensions, with the ESDM ministry assuring subsidised fuel prices will not rise and stock remains adequate. Officials warned against panic buying as oil prices rose, and emphasised smooth fuel distribution ahead of Idul Fitri.

Indonesia–China Collaboration to Improve Merauke Rice Management

Indonesia's Ministry of Transmigration, regional authorities, and Chinese partners the China National Rice Research Institute (CNRRI) and the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) are collaborating to raise the productivity and quality of rice in the Salor Transmigration Area, Merauke, South Papua. The talks cover cultivation, irrigation, and post-harvest technology, with a plan to standardise management and involve Indigenous Papuans as active participants, linked to a 2025 ministerial visit to China as part of national food security efforts.

Lippo Group's Multipolar (MLPL) Net Profit Slumps 209.52% in 2025

PT Multipolar Tbk (MLPL), the Lippo Group issuer, reports a 2025 net profit of Rp156.43 billion, marking a sharp year‑on‑year decline. Revenue rose modestly to Rp11.54 trillion, but costs and financial charges weighed on profitability, resulting in a year with a net loss after other items and an increase in liabilities alongside asset growth.

Instagram and TikTok accounts for under-16s to be deactivated on 28 March

Indonesia has issued ministerial Regulation No. 9 of 2026 to protect children online, delaying access for accounts under 16 on high-risk platforms. The initial phase will deactivate under-16 accounts from 28 March 2026 on platforms including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live and Roblox, with broader rollout planned; Indonesia says it is the first non-Western country to apply age-based restrictions online.

Owner of Bibi Kelinci Kemang Becomes a Suspect, Reported as a Thief at Her Restaurant

South Jakarta restaurant owner Nabilah O’Brien says she has become a suspect in a Bareskrim Polri investigation after reporting a theft at her restaurant. She alleges coercion to admit her statements and CCTV footage as defamation and was asked for Rp 1 billion, prompting calls for legal clarity from DPR’s Commission III and Police Chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo. The case also involves a married couple, ZK and ESR, reported for allegedly stealing 14 ordered items; they have been summoned for questioning but requested delays.

Money Avoidance: Why Are Some People Afraid of Having Money?

Money avoidance is the belief that money is bad or unworthy, often rooted in childhood experiences and cultural norms. It can lead to income stagnation, reluctance to negotiate pay or save, and financial anxiety; the article outlines causes and practical steps to overcome the mindset.

Overseeing the Return of Umrah Pilgrims, Government Deploys Intensified Support at King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah

The Indonesian government, via the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the Indonesian Consulate General in Jeddah, is intensifying oversight and escort provisions for Indonesian Umrah pilgrims returning from Saudi Arabia. Data up to 5 March 2026 show thousands assisted and dozens delayed, with on‑site monitoring to ensure clear information and timely rescheduling. The effort highlights the state's commitment to protecting pilgrims and coordinating with airlines and tour operators amid disruptions.

KPK Submits Evidence and Four Experts at Yaqut Cholil Qoumas Pre-trial Hearing

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) presented a range of evidence and four expert witnesses at the pre-trial hearing against former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas in the South Jakarta District Court. The hearing opened with the examination of evidence, followed by expert testimony, with the judge reminding the parties not to confront previous expert opinions. The four experts included specialists from Universitas Islam Indonesia, Universitas Riau, Universitas Indonesia, and Universitas Gadjah Mada.

War Heats Up, 32 Indonesian Nationals in Iran Begin Evacuation Today

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry began a phased evacuation of Indonesian citizens from Iran, starting with 32 people moved via Azerbaijan. The operation marks an initial government step amid evolving security dynamics in the Middle East, with future routes to be decided by on-the-ground assessments by Indonesian missions in Tehran and Azerbaijan. A crisis response team has been formed to monitor developments and inform the Indonesian community.

TNI completes cleaning of SMP Negeri 3 Badiri in Central Tapanuli after subsequent floods

The Indonesian National Armed Forces' disaster response task force has completed cleaning SMP Negeri 3 Badiri in Lopian, Badiri District, Central Tapanuli, North Sumatra, following subsequent floods. The operation, led by the Kodam I/Bukit Barisan disaster response, involved military personnel and school staff and is intended to restore safe, orderly facilities so teaching can resume. A mid-February 2026 recovery milestone is targeted.

Tourism Minister Visits Rumah Budaya Indonesia in Germany (RBI)

Indonesia's Tourism Minister, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, visited Rumah Budaya Indonesia in Berlin to promote Indonesia's tourism through culture, highlighting RBI's role in cultural diplomacy and people-to-people exchanges with Germany as part of the Wonderful Indonesia branding and the #GoBeyondOrdinary campaign.

Viral zig-zag car convoy on the Becakayu Toll Road; police intervene

A video showing a zig-zag car convoy on the Bekasi-Cawang-Kampung Melayu Toll road in East Jakarta circulated widely. Police identified the involved vehicles via CCTV and said they would issue verbal warnings and educate the drivers, hoping the dangerous practice does not repeat.

Jaecoo Aims to Deliver 10,000 J5 EVs Before Eid al-Fitr

Jaecoo Indonesia is rushing J5 EV deliveries ahead of Eid al-Fitr 2026 to enable early buyers to travel home for the holidays. The J5 EV has drawn over 15,000 vehicle purchase orders since its November 2025 launch in Indonesia, with more than 5,000 units shipped to date; management says 10,000 units are planned for delivery by March 2026 to meet 2025 orders. The model is a 155 kW electric SUV with a 60.9 kWh battery, offering up to 461 kilometres (NEDC) range and 130 kW fast charging.

Trump Boasts that a Ground Invasion of Iran Would Be a Waste of Time

US President Donald Trump dismisses a planned deployment of ground troops to Iran as a waste of time, while Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warns that any invasion would be a disaster for the aggressors. The report notes a major attack in Tehran and ongoing references to joint US-Israel action, with Araghchi asserting Iran's readiness to defend its sovereignty.

Amran Claims Indonesia's Rice Reserves Are Sufficient for Up to 324 Days

Indonesia's Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman says the national rice reserves cover 324 days, based on a stock of 27.99 million tonnes comprising Bulog, community stocks, and standing crop. He notes ongoing production could add to the reserves, with January–May 2026 output around 16.92 million tonnes and monthly production averaging between 2.6 and 5.7 million tonnes against a monthly consumption of 2.59 million tonnes. He also argues El Niño will have limited impact, irrigation infrastructure is in place, fertilizer prices are down 20%, seed supply is stable, and there will be no imports this year.

BMKG Warns of Higher Forest and Land Fire Risk in 2026 as the Dry Season Becomes Drier

The Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) cautions that 2026 is expected to bring drier weather, increasing the risk of forest and land fires (karhutla) as ENSO conditions shift from La Niña to neutral. The agency, alongside BNPB, is deploying a Weather Modification Operation (OMC) to moisten peatlands ahead of the peak dry season (June–August), while monitoring potential El Niño activity and possible future extreme dry seasons.

Metro Jaya Police carry out mosque environmental-clean-up in West Jakarta

Brimob personnel from the Detasemen Gegana of the Metro Jaya Regional Police conducted an environmental clean-up at Al-Maghfiroh Mosque in Palmerah, West Jakarta, on Friday, as part of efforts to keep the area clean and support worshippers. The operation involved coordination with the mosque's Welfare Council (DKM) and joint cleaning with local management, reflecting Brimob's community engagement. The mosque’s DKM chairman welcomed the move, noting it improved police–community relations and had a positive impact.

Married couple accused of stealing food from Bibi Kelinci restaurant in Kemang named as suspects

A married couple suspected of taking food from Bibi Kelinci restaurant in Kemang, Mampang Prapatan, South Jakarta, have been named as suspects. The case is being handled by Mampang Prapatan Police, with the suspects identified as ZK and ESR, who were summoned for questioning on 9 March 2026 but requested a postponement. The restaurant owner has also reported to Indonesia's Police's Criminal Investigation Agency after posting a CCTV clip; the incident involved alleged assault and the losses were estimated at Rp530,150.

Government Plans to Implement Mandatory B50, but Challenges Remain

Indonesia plans to mandate biodiesel blending to 50% (B50) in the second half of 2026, a policy that could reshape the domestic palm oil industry and energy mix. Officials warn of multiple challenges, including supply, palm-oil productivity, land, domestic needs, and state revenue, while emphasising the need for balance between emissions reductions and revenue. Industry players urge caution and gradual ramp-up to avoid performance issues in vehicles and ensure energy security.

BNI Holds Ramadan Safari 2026 in More Than 10 Cities, Distributes 80,000 Food Packages and Charitable Donations

BNI launched its Ramadan Safari 2026 across more than ten Indonesian cities, distributing around 80,000 food packages and donations to orphans and the underprivileged. The programme began on 3 March 2026 with events in Batam, Bandung, Semarang and Yogyakarta and continued to cities including Denpasar, Manado, Jayapura, Jakarta and beyond, culminating in a high-profile Jakarta gathering.

Pertamina Lubricants Maintains Export Markets, Including Yemen

Pertamina Lubricants is maintaining its export markets despite regional tensions, with Yemen among the destinations it continues to serve. The company says exports to 17 countries are ongoing, emphasising development in these markets and the role of its Lubricant Technology Center in Southeast Asia in boosting international partners' confidence. Yemen was previously a promising market, including tender wins and shipments of around 15 containers in 2013.

Israeli General Sends Threats to Indonesia as Hoaxes Spread

An online claim that an Israeli general threatened Indonesia over the Iran crisis is a hoax. International relations analyst Ulta Levenia debunked the report, noting the supposed general does not exist and that the image has been manipulated to foment fear and pressure the Indonesian government. She urged greater media literacy and caution in sharing information online.

Beware of Dangerous Takjil! Here Are the Signs of Foods Containing Formalin and Borax

The Indonesian BPOM warns consumers about the possible use of hazardous chemicals such as formalin and borax in foods, including takjil for breaking the fast. The piece outlines indicators of contamination and lists foods at risk, urging vigilance and safer consumer choices.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Ensures Stable Fuel Supplies for Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr Amid Geopolitical Dynamics

Pertamina Patra Niaga has assured that Indonesia’s fuel supply is secure and under control, with around 21 days of operational stock maintained in the national energy logistics system. The company cites ongoing top-ups, diversification of supply sources, and strong domestic-refinery output as key mitigations amid global geopolitical tensions, and urges calm to avoid panic buying.

Pertamina Jatimbalinus Ensures Adequate Fuel Stock During Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr

Pertamina Patra Niaga Regional Jatimbalinus says fuel stocks in its area are safe ahead of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 2026, amid global concerns over Middle East tensions and the Strait of Hormuz. The company is implementing a Regular, Alternative, and Emergency (RAE) approach to safeguard energy distribution and urges the public not to panic-buy, while coordinating across sectors to mitigate potential disruptions.

Bali wins 'The Best Island' award at the DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards 2026

Bali has been named 'The Best Island' at the DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards 2026, highlighting its status as a leading global destination. The Ministry of Tourism points to ongoing environmental and waste-management initiatives, including ASRI and a planned waste-to-energy project in Denpasar, as important factors in Bali’s ongoing competitiveness.

Amran Says Food Stocks Are High and Prices Stable: Cherish Farmers

The Indonesian government says food prices ahead of Eid al-Fitr remain under control as stock levels are high and most commodities hold stable or fall slightly. Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman notes a modest rise in broiler chicken prices but says the increase is within acceptable bounds and could help farmers, while other staples are easing or steady; SP2KP and IPH data show regional price movement across Indonesia.

Pramono Responds to West Jakarta Mayor Being Sued by Residents Over Crematorium Permit

Governor Pramono Anung has said the ongoing legal process stemming from residents' lawsuit against West Jakarta Mayor Iin Mutmainnah over the permit for the Swarga Abadi Funeral Home and Crematorium in Kalideres should be allowed to run its course in the courts. The suit, filed with the Jakarta Administrative Court (PTUN Jakarta) argues the permit violated local regulations on burial and crematorium development, with the first hearing set for 11 March 2026.

Students Protest at the DPR, Call for Indonesia to Withdraw from the Board of Peace

A group of students and civil coalitions staged a protest outside the MPR/DPR RI building in Central Jakarta, urging Indonesia to withdraw from the international Board of Peace. They also demanded cancelling the Indonesia–United States trade agreement and that the TNI not be deployed to Gaza, as security measures were planned for the DPR area.

From Coffee-on-Wheels for the Community, a Takjil Convoy Spreads Across 10 Jakarta Points

Jago Coffee and Tokopedia have launched a Ramadan programme, Konvoi Takjil Keliling, deploying hundreds of coffee carts to ten Jakarta locations from 2–9 March 2026. The initiative has recorded thousands of cups of coffee, takjil portions, and Tokopedia gift cards distributed, with participation via Tokopedia and Jago apps and a Ramadan package supporting disaster relief.

A Look at How Bedugs Are Made in Tanah Abang: They Use Goat Skin

In Tanah Abang, seasonal bedug makers and traders prepare stock in advance for Ramadan and Idul Fitri, with goat skins used as the main material. Prices range from Rp60,000 to Rp5 million depending on size and design, and a rising interest in smaller bedugs for children signals a revival of the tradition.

Pramono Ensures Jakarta's Food Stocks Are Still Secure Amid Iran–Israel Conflict

Pramono says Jakarta's staple foods—rice, meat, curly red chillies, and others—are safe, with prices showing no significant rises. Beef prices are being mitigated by imports of 3,100 head of cattle, and the tebus murah basic-food package programme is being rolled out across multiple districts; 500 packages were distributed, each offered at a discount. He has ordered BUMD officials to prepare for possible crises amid the Iran–Israel conflict.

Indonesian Vehicles Now Able to Use Petrol with Bioethanol Blends Up to 20% (E20)

Gaikindo has said Indonesian-made vehicles are capable of running on petrol with ethanol blends up to E20, with official certification for E10 already in place. The government aims to mandate ethanol blending at 5% (E5) from 2028 and potentially reach 20% (E20), with imports from the United States allowed to bridge supply gaps under a bilateral agreement signed in February 2026. Authorities also plan to develop Papua as a major bioethanol feedstock hub, emphasising domestic sourcing of feedstock such as molasses and sugar cane.

Four Indonesian crewmembers kidnapped by pirates in Africa freed

Four Indonesian crewmembers who were kidnapped by pirates off Gabon have been freed after almost two months in captivity. The operation was coordinated by the Indonesian National Armed Forces through the Defence Attaché in Abuja with authorities, and nine people were freed in total, including the four Indonesians. The freed crew are undergoing medical checks in Lagos, with repatriation to Indonesia planned after administrative and medical clearances.

One-Way Scheme in Central Java During Mudik Could Extend to the Boyolali Toll Road

Central Java Police say a one-way traffic scheme could extend to the Boyolali Toll Road as mudik flows rise to a set threshold. The system normally operates from KM 70 on the Jakarta–Cikampek Toll Road to KM 421 on the Semarang–Solo Toll Road (Banyumanik). The policy, issued as part of a Joint Decree by the Ministry of Transportation, Ministry of Public Works and Korlantas Polri for Lebaran 2026, will also affect traffic on arterial roads; motorists should monitor real-time updates to avoid congestion.

Bullion-bank customers in Indonesia surpass 5.7 million

Indonesia's bullion-bank customer base has surged to 5.7 million, up 78% from a year earlier, as global gold prices climb. Pegadaian and BRIS have expanded gold collateral and loans, with gold pledged reaching 144.7 tonnes and loans increasing by 38.5 tonnes to about Rp 102 trillion. Gold is poised as a safe-haven asset amid geopolitical tensions, contributing to inflation in jewellery gold, with Antam gold price at Rp 3.024 million per gram as of 6 March 2026.

GERD Can Be Cured by Reducing Risk Factors

Professor Ari Fahrial Syam argues that GERD can be cured by reducing its risk factors and completing treatment, emphasising lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and alcohol, weight loss, and a low-fat diet, alongside endoscopic assessment and newer P-CAB medications. The discussion also highlights rising GERD cases among children linked to dietary habits and screen time. Intermittent fasting and adequate protein intake are noted as potential strategies.

Cipayung Social Welfare Home Provides Health Services and Therapy for 103 Children

At the Tunas Bangsa PSAA in Cipayung, East Jakarta, 103 children receive health care, routine check-ups, education and psychological support, with therapies including speech and motor skills development. The facility operates under the Dinas Sosial and collaborates with Puskesmas Kecamatan Cipayung to monitor health; it also accepts children from economically disadvantaged families and other institutions, and has recorded 10 adoptions in 2025.

Oil and gas production surge opens up business opportunities for the insurance industry

Indonesia's push to boost oil and gas production is not only an energy policy move but also a growth avenue for the insurance sector. As exploration and field development expand, operators face higher operational, safety, and environmental risks, creating demand for insurance coverage. Regulators and industry players emphasise governance and domestic retention to strengthen the national insurance market.

Iran Denies Striking Azerbaijan, Claims Israel and Others Are Behind 'Silent' Provocation

Iran has strongly denied reports that it was behind the drone strikes on Azerbaijan, suggesting the incident could be a provocation by others, including Israel. Azerbaijan has blamed Tehran for the attack on Nakhchivan's airport and vowed retaliation, escalating regional tensions. Tehran frames the episode as psychological warfare and says its own actions are limited to countering threats, not provoking neighbours.

Komnas: Sexual violence against women highest, reaching 22,848 cases in 2025

The Komnas Perempuan Annual Report 2025 highlights sexual violence as the most common form of violence against women in 2025, with 22,848 cases, followed by psychological violence (15,727), physical violence (14,126) and economic violence (5,942). The data, covering personal, public, and state spheres and regional figures, come from service providers and law enforcement agencies.

Indonesian DPR backs Prabowo in evaluating Indonesia's membership of the Board of Peace

DPR member Syamsu Rizal, from the PKB faction, supports President Prabowo Subianto's plan to reassess Indonesia's membership of the Board of Peace after US–Israel strikes on Iran. He says the move is necessary to uphold the constitutional duty and Indonesia's commitment to world peace, warning that the BoP's credibility has been undermined by recent actions. The discussion followed Prabowo's long briefing with former presidents, vice-presidents and other political figures at Istana Merdeka.

Amartha Fellowship Bootcamp Builds Participatory and Reflective Leadership

Amartha.org has launched the Amartha Fellowship Bootcamp as the capstone of the Beasiswa Amartha Cendekia, equipping 60 STEAM students with participatory, reflective leadership and mindfulness to address community issues. The four-day programme features mentorship from business leaders and culminates in group prototypes funded for early implementation. By 2025, the Beasiswa Amartha programme had disbursed around Rp10 billion to more than 800 students across three scholarships, reflecting Indonesia's growing investment in education and social impact.

Chromebook hearing reveals KSP staffer once corresponded with the Ministry of Education and Culture over the procurement

Former Director-General Jumeri testified that Tri Saptono, a Kantor Staf Presiden (KSP) staffer, questioned whether the Chromebook-only specification in the procurement breached Permendikbud. The ministry replied that the 2021 ICT procurement followed the 2020 study and ministerial regulations; the judge noted Tri Santoso's questions as reflecting regional concerns about the 2021 digitisation procurement.

AHY Urges Jakarta to Create More Creative Spaces for Youth

AHY, the General Chair of the Democratic Party, calls for more creative spaces for Jakarta's youth as part of inclusive urban development. He argues that modern cities are not only defined by physical infrastructure, but also by spaces for young people to develop, create and express themselves, and he urges policymakers to involve youth as active participants in development while safeguarding Jakarta's local identity as it aims to become a global city.

Prajogo Pangestu's listed issuer posts revenue of Rp14.82 trillion in 2025

PT Petrosea Tbk, an affiliate of Prajogo Pangestu, reported revenue of USD 886.45 million (Rp14.82 trillion) for 2025, up 28.32% from 2024. Revenue breakdown came from Mining (USD 389.25m), Construction and Engineering (USD 379.74m), Offshore EPCI for Oil and Gas (USD 32.86m), with Services (USD 30m) and Other income (USD 2.5m), and coal sales adding USD 52.01m. Direct operating costs rose 28.93% to USD 774.23m, yielding gross profit of USD 112.22m and net profit of USD 28.8m; assets grew to USD 1.58b, liabilities USD 1.27b, and equity USD 307.4m as of end-2025.

Ahead of Eid al-Fitr Mudik, Jasamarga Halts Toll Road Repair Projects From 11 March

Ahead of the Eid al-Fitr homecoming period, PT Jasamarga Transjawa Tol will suspend road repair and maintenance work other than pothole handling from 11 March 2026 to ensure smoother traffic flow. The company says maintenance teams will operate at night, with a large-scale patching operation planned across the Jakarta-Cikampek toll corridor and beyond to address potholes swiftly during peak travel times.

Grandmother and Grandchild Burn Victims in Bogor Shanty Fire Suffer 80% Burns

Two burn victims—a grandmother and her granddaughter—are receiving intensive care in Bogor after a fire at a rental dwelling, with burns covering about 80% of their bodies. A second granddaughter, Zaki, aged 1 year 4 months, died in the incident, and authorities are coordinating referrals to large Jakarta hospitals due to suspected airway trauma.

Ministry of Law and Human Rights and PII strengthen the intellectual property ecosystem for engineers

The Ministry of Law and Human Rights and the Indonesian Engineers Association (PII) signed a cooperation agreement to strengthen Indonesia's intellectual property ecosystem for engineers, aiming to streamline IP registration and enhance protection. The agreement, announced during World Engineering Day 2026, seeks to increase IP applications in engineering, raise IP literacy, and bolster the commercialisation of engineering innovations, with involvement from DJKI and other stakeholders.

BBPOM Jakarta engages Pramuka to oversee food safety during Ramadan

BBPOM Jakarta has enlisted Pramuka youth in the Saka POM team to monitor takjil for safety during Ramadan, with three krida: testing, information, and monitoring. They sample takjil and educate the public; the move follows prior findings of Rhodamine B in certain takjil items, triggering trace-back efforts to disrupt the supply chain.

Nabilah O'Brien Named a Suspect After Reporting Theft, Parliament Steps In

Indonesia's Commission III of the House of Representatives will hold a Public Hearing about the case of restaurant owner Nabilah O'Brien, who has been named a suspect after reporting a theft at her Kemang restaurant. The commission will also summon the police, and her legal team will be present, to ensure no citizen is criminalised. The case involves two separate matters—an alleged theft and the posting of CCTV footage online—each with distinct legal consequences.

Doctor: A perforated eardrum should be treated with surgery

A medical expert explains that a perforated eardrum usually requires surgical repair to prevent recurrent infections. Tympanoplasty aims to seal the hole and restore ear structure, though complete restoration of hearing is not guaranteed in all cases; additional treatments such as bone reconstruction or hearing aids may be needed.

Building a Culture of Social Care, CEO of a State-Owned Enterprise Subsidiary Distributes Takjil on the Streets

PT Finnet Indonesia (Finpay) organised a Ramadan CSR event in South Jakarta, distributing 100 takjil packages and hosting Iftar with the CEO Office. Led by Rakhmad Tunggal Afifuddin, the activity emphasised social responsibility, internal cohesion and a culture of care, tying business growth to community well-being.

Check the Ramadan timetable for Central Jakarta today, 6 March

On Friday, 6 March 2026, Central Jakarta residents observing Ramadan enter the 16th day of Ramadan 1447 AH. The imsakiyah timetable guides the timings for breaking the fast and daily prayers, with each district having its own schedule. The article also notes the government's February decision on the start of fasting and the Isbat process used to determine the lunar month.

Geopolitical Turmoil, 20% Fertilizer Subsidy to Continue

Indonesia will maintain a 20% fertiliser subsidy despite geopolitical tensions including the Iran–Israel–US conflict and Hormuz Strait disruption. The government has diversified fertiliser material suppliers away from Gulf states and prepared food-security and infrastructure measures to shield farmers from price shocks.

Pramono Ensures Jakarta's Food Stockpile From Rice to Chilli Is Safe Amid US–Iran Conflict

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says the capital's stockpiles of staples—from rice to curly red chillies—are secure despite heightened geopolitical tensions. He notes no significant price rises so far and outlines measures to stabilise prices and safeguard fuel supplies, including cattle imports and central–regional coordination.

Bank Danamon (BDMN) to Reshape Board of Directors, This Figure Set to Become President Director

Bank Danamon has announced it will reshuffle its board at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on 31 March 2026 after several directors’ terms ended. Nobuya Kawasaki has been nominated to become President Director, subject to shareholder approval; he currently serves as a commissioner and has a long tenure at MUFG Bank. The expected leadership change follows the departures of the current President Director Daisuke Ejima and Deputy President Director Honggo Widjojo Kangmasto.

Home Affairs Minister: Additional TKD to disaster-affected regions accelerates recovery

Indonesia's Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian announced around Rp10.6 trillion in additional Transfer to Regions (TKD) will be allocated to disaster-affected areas in Sumatra to speed recovery. The funds will be available to all regencies/cities and provinces across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, including those not directly affected, in accordance with a Finance Ministry decree and circular. The move is intended to strengthen local government finances and support disaster mitigation, planning, and inflation management.

Trump's 10% global tariff sued by 24 US states

Twenty-four US states have filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump over a new 10% global tariff, arguing it breaches legal requirements. The suit, led by Democratic attorneys-general and governors, was lodged with the United States Court of International Trade as Trump considers raising the tariff to 15% this week. It follows a Supreme Court ruling that Trump exceeded his authority by invoking the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose tariffs on numerous countries.

Setu Babakan Road in Ruins as Cars Refuse to Cross

Setu Babakan Road around the reservoir in Jagakarsa, South Jakarta, is severely damaged with potholes and waterlogged surfaces following ongoing infrastructure works in the area; residents report heavy vehicles using the road, especially at night, since November 2025, causing the surface to deteriorate and motorists avoiding crossing.

ChatGPT Boycotted, 1.5 Million Subscribers Vanish Almost Instantly

OpenAI's cooperation with the United States Department of Defense sparked a backlash on social media, coinciding with a rapid exodus of ChatGPT subscribers. The boycott site QuitGPT.org tallies take-up from users joining the boycott, shares, and usage data, with OpenAI yet to confirm official figures. The controversy highlights tensions between AI development, military applications, and corporate governance.

Gibran visits Tuban to review industrial projects and the people’s market

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka visited Tuban, East Java, to review strategic industrial sites and assess the local economy. The trip included a meeting with Semen Indonesia’s management, an inspection of the Talavera Project Jetty, and a visit to Pasar Gelondong Gede, with authorities citing a drive to boost regional development and the downstreaming of industry under President Prabowo Subianto’s directives.

Transport Minister pushes for accelerated transformation of national aviation services

Indonesia's Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has urged accelerated transformation of the national aviation sector, emphasising a strategic, stakeholder-wide approach. The initiative targets higher safety, operational efficiency and service quality, while addressing external pressures and supporting digitalisation and airport entrepreneurship as drivers of growth.

Pramono orders Satpol PP and OPD to crack down on judol QR stickers in DKI Jakarta

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has urged the Satpol PP and related OPDs to screen for QR stickers linked to online gambling (judol) and take firm action when found. He reiterated Jakarta’s full support for the central government’s anti-judol drive, noting the problem entraps many residents. The report also notes police investigations leading to an arrest connected to the distribution of such QR stickers.

Rupiah Falters Ahead of the Weekend as US Dollar Rises to Rp16,900

The rupiah closed 0.15% weaker at Rp16,900 per US$, after briefly touching Rp16,930; the US dollar index fluctuated, and Bank Indonesia continued to stabilise the currency through offshore and domestic interventions.

Iran Ready for Prolonged War, Set to Unveil New Weapons Not Yet Deployed

Iran claims it is fully prepared for a prolonged war and will unveil advanced weapons not previously deployed. The IRGC spokesperson says these technologies are not yet deployed at scale, and the conflict is described as a holy and legitimate war, with Iran’s regional militias escalating attacks in response to Western operations. The broader proxy conflict involves the US, Israel, and Iran’s allies, with Iraq as a focal frontline.

Day 16 of Ramadan: Check Today's Iftar Schedule in East Jakarta

East Jakarta residents observing Ramadan on Friday, 6 March 2026, have entered the sixteenth day of Ramadhan 1447 Hijri, guided by imsakiyah for fasting, breaking the fast and prayers. The government, via the Ministry of Religious Affairs, fixed 1 Ramadan 1447 Hijri as 19 February 2026 after an Isbat session; Muhammadiyah began fasting a day earlier on 18 February 2026, with officials urging respect for differing methods in determining Ramadan's start.

Merah Putih Fishermen Village in Jatimalang, Purworejo Becomes Culinary and Tourism Hub

The Merah Putih Fishermen Village (KNMP) in Jatimalang, Purworejo, is being developed as a hub combining culinary and tourism activities with facilities such as fish auctions, docking, an ice plant and cold storage. The project, endorsed by Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, aims to boost coastal productivity and strengthen the local economy, creating broader opportunities for coastal communities.

Pramono Urges Satpol PP to Sweep Jakarta Areas Following Surge in QR Code Stickers Linked to Judol

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has called on Satpol PP to screen the capital for QR-code stickers suspected of directing users to online gambling sites (judol), pledging action if evidence is confirmed. He reiterated Jakarta's support for central government efforts to eradicate online gambling and to cut off access to such sites. Police previously detained a man linked to QR-code stickers found in South Jakarta, with investigators saying the site operates from overseas and is believed to be a scam.

UBS expects ASEAN 6 GDP to grow by 4.9% in 2026 - Economy - The Jakarta Post

UBS projects ASEAN‑6 GDP to grow about 4.9% in 2026, supported by deep integration into global manufacturing value chains and a sizeable domestic market. It notes Indonesian growth at 5.11% with consumption rising 5.1% year-on-year and investment at 6.1% year-on-year, and maintains a 2026 GDP forecast around 5.2% as the government targets 5.4–5.6%.

Pertamina Confirms BBM Stock Will Not Run Out Within 21 Days

Pertamina has assured that national fuel stock will not run dry within 21 days, with reserves kept above the government’s minimum of 21-23 days and, for some products, up to 35 days. The company says it maintains a safe margin through ongoing supply additions and a digital hub that monitors distribution from upstream to downstream.

Closure of the Hormuz Strait Could Pressure the Rupiah, Oil Prices Could Reach US$130

Geopolitical tensions around the Hormuz Strait could push up global oil prices and pressure the rupiah. An extended conflict could see oil average US$75–100 per barrel, potentially US$100–130, widening the current account deficit and prompting BI to intervene; Indonesia's FX reserves provide cushion, but risks persist.

Introducing the Secrets of Chocolate: BPDP Calls on the Youth to Embrace Plantation Commodities

BPDP in Jakarta launched an educational programme titled 'Kakao dan Rahasia Cokelat' to boost cocoa literacy among around 60 school-age participants. The initiative combines storytelling and a bilingual educational comic to emphasise cocoa as a strategic commodity supporting farmers and the national economy, aiming to foster a positive, fact-based view of Indonesia's plantation sector among the younger generation.

Exhibition Industry Faces Environmental Impacts From Emissions to Carpet Use; Here's How the IEE Series 2026 Will Address It

Exhibitions generate significant carbon emissions and waste, with industry players increasingly adopting sustainable practices. The IEE Series 2026 in Balikpapan will showcase green solutions, from waste recycling and modular stands to energy-efficient technologies and education on sustainability. The programme also promotes a circular economy, reduced carpet use, and the broader shift towards sustainable, low-emission events.

South Jakarta Residents Ready: Iftar Schedule for Friday 6 March

Muslims in South Jakarta observe the 16th day of Ramadhan 1447 Hijri on Friday, 6 March 2026, and are preparing for iftar as regional imsakiyah timings guide fasting and the daily prayers. The government, via the Ministry of Religious Affairs, has announced Ramadhan’s start date and explained the Isbat process, noting a non-uniform start this year with Muhammadiyah beginning on 18 February 2026 and urging mutual respect among Muslims.

Furious Trump Calls Spain a Loser, Britain Very Disappointing

Trump attacks two US allies, Spain and the United Kingdom, branding Spain a loser and Britain very disappointing, in remarks cited by the New York Post. He accuses Spain of hostility to NATO and of failing to meet defence spending, while deriding Keir Starmer and suggesting the UK would not host US military bases for operations against Iran; Starmer had defended not joining the US-Israel strike on Iran.

Ministry of Tourism prepares to mitigate the impact of the Middle East conflict

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism is preparing strategic mitigation measures to anticipate potential impacts of the Middle East tensions on the tourism sector. Deputy Minister Ni Luh Puspa says the government is monitoring developments, particularly in Bali, and will strengthen Asia-Pacific markets to safeguard outbound tourism and international visitors.

Andre Rosiade Checks Improvements to PT Semen Padang Facilities, Target Completion Within One Month

Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian DPR’s Commission VI, Andre Rosiade, visited PT Semen Padang to oversee facility improvements and align them with directives from senior leadership. The works focus on sports facilities, the housing environment for officials, and public facilities, with a target completion within one month as part of a broader government push to strengthen national industry and BUMN operations.

Iftar timetable for Denpasar, Bali and surrounding areas today, 6 March 2026

The article provides the iftar and sahur timings for Denpasar and other parts of Bali for Friday, 6 March 2026, citing the Bimas Islam Kemenag RI. It also includes duas for breaking the fast based on Ustadz Adi Hidayat, and guidance on when to recite them.

Mulyatsyah admits receiving and distributing money from Chromebook vendor to Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology officials

Mulyatsyah, former Director of SMP Kemendikbudristek and Budget User Authority (KPA), testified in the Jakarta Corruption Court that he received funds from a Chromebook vendor and distributed part of it to PAUDasmen leaders, in what prosecutors describe as part of a procurement scandal. The indictment also cites sums of S$120,000 and US$150,000, though he did not reveal the total amount he received or distributed.

Kakorlantas surveys routes in Bali to ensure Lebaran–Nyepi security and Kemala Run 2026 runs smoothly

The Indonesian Police's Traffic Corps (Kakorlantas) conducted on-site route surveys in Bali to ensure security for the Lebaran mudik during Operation Ketupat and the Nyepi holiday, while also checking preparations for Kemala Run 2026. The exercise included discussions on road closures to Ketapang and Gilimanuk, bridge repairs, and coordination with the Bali governor; the Kemala Run is planned for 19 April at the Bali United Training Center with about 10,000 participants.

Gibran chairs Tuban flood coordination meeting, emphasises accelerated recovery

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka chaired a flood-response coordination meeting in Tuban, East Java, urging rapid restoration of public facilities and basic services. He ordered repairs to the Ngino–Sambongrejo road and its drainage, called for swift data collection on damaged homes for aid distribution, and warned of potential post-flood disease and ongoing extreme weather.

Awaiting Xpeng’s New Car in Indonesia, Between SUV and MPV

Xpeng Indonesia plans to expand its range, signalling new MPV and SUV models. With the G6 around Rp600 million and the X9 about Rp1.3 billion, the company is exploring pricing to fill gaps, potentially adding more variants beyond the two current models.

Jokowi on Meeting with Prabowo and Former Presidents

Former Indonesian president Joko Widodo revealed two key topics discussed at a gathering with President Prabowo Subianto and other ex-leaders: Indonesia's involvement in the Board of Peace and a tariff policy with the United States. Jokowi said Prabowo explained that around 1,800 tariff lines are duty-free and many rates are zero, potentially boosting exports to the US, where Indonesia runs a substantial surplus. The meeting also included other senior figures and business leaders, with attendees offering views and suggestions.

Jokowi on Talks at the Presidential Palace Tuesday Night

Two major topics dominated the discussion at a meeting attended by former Indonesian presidents and vice-presidents with President Prabowo Subianto: Indonesia's involvement in the Board of Peace (BOP) forum and its tariff policy with the United States. Jokowi said that most traded items enjoy zero tariffs, with about 1,800 items tariff-free, a policy seen as boosting exports to the US, where Indonesia runs a surplus of around US$18 billion.

Huawei launches foldable smartphone and smartwatch in Indonesia

Huawei has launched two new flagship devices in Indonesia: the premium foldable smartphone Huawei Mate X7 and the new Huawei Watch Ultimate 2. The Mate X7 features improved colour accuracy and AI-assisted photography, with a promotional price of Rp27.999 million until 4 April 2026. The Watch Ultimate 2, priced at Rp12.999 million, boasts extreme durability, underwater messaging, and a 200m water resistance, reinforcing Huawei's premium ecosystem.

Who was Ermanto Usman, the man allegedly killed by robbers in Bekasi?

A 65-year-old former Jakarta International Container Terminal (JICT) employee, Ermanto Usman, died in an incident described as a robbery at his home in Jatibening, Bekasi, with his wife injured and receiving medical treatment. Ermanto was a vocal critic of alleged corruption in port management, prominent in the JICT retirees’ association, and his case has amplified calls for transparency; police investigations continue. The episode has revived scrutiny of Pelindo II’s partnership with Hutchison Port Holdings, highlighted by a 2015 DPR pansus and a BPK audit that flagged a potential US$360 million loss.

West Kalimantan Subsidized Housing Quota for 2026 Reaches 22,000 Units

West Kalimantan's subsidised housing quota under the FLPP programme for 2026 is set at 22,000 units, with the home renovation scheme increasing to 13,000 units. The event showcased government housing initiatives, including the KPR subsidised by FLPP and policy measures to accelerate national housing, while emphasising transparency in the application process.

20 Great Soft Contact Lens Colours That Make Your Eyes Look Fresher

Soft contact lenses are now widely used for aesthetic reasons in addition to vision. The piece advises on choosing colours to suit skin tone and makeup, and includes 20 colour recommendations to brighten the eyes. It also stresses safety, regulatory approvals, and safe lens materials as important considerations.

Jakarta Iftar Time Schedule Today 6 March, Longer in Jakarta than Bekasi Regency

Jakarta residents are awaiting iftar time on the 16th day of Ramadan 1447 Hijri. The Jakarta buka puasa time is one minute later than Bekasi Regency's, recorded at 18:12 WIB. The government, through the Ministry of Religious Affairs, set the start of fasting for 1 Ramadan 1447 Hijri on 19 February 2026, with the Isbat meeting continuing to harmonise methods alongside Muhammadiyah’s Ramadan start.

WhatsApp Relents, App Undergoes Total Transformation Owing to Government

WhatsApp will implement a major policy shift after regulatory pressure from the European Union, allowing rival AI chatbots to access the platform via the WhatsApp Business API in Europe for the next 12 months, with a fee. The move follows antitrust scrutiny and threats of interim measures by the EU Commission, mirroring actions in Italy and Brazil. Meta argues the change buys time for investigations, while critics say it merely replaces one restriction with another.

Doctor Advises the 60–60 Rule for Headphone Use

A leading ENT surgeon warns that excessive use of earphones can cause permanent sensorineural hearing loss, and urges adherence to the 60–60 rule—maximum volume at 60% of device capacity for up to 60 minutes, with a 15-minute break. He also suggests bone-conduction headphones as a safer alternative, though overall usage should be limited to protect hearing health.

Indonesia to Implement Biodiesel B50, Palm Oil Production Must Increase

The Indonesian government plans to implement a 50% biodiesel blend (B50) in diesel, which would raise demand for crude palm oil (CPO) domestically to around 16 million tonnes. To achieve this, national CPO production must rise, raising concerns about export sacrifices, land use and the need for improved productivity, particularly among smallholders, and infrastructure such as RDMP Pertamina in East Kalimantan.

Doctor Shares Safe Homecoming Tips for GERD Sufferers

A doctor advises GERD patients preparing for Eid homecomings to travel at night when not fasting, and to carry their usual acid-suppressing medicines and home-cooked meals to avoid contaminated food. He also warns that fried foods, chocolate and cheese can trigger symptoms and stresses the importance of managing stress and staying connected during delays.

Iran's Foreign Minister: Russia and China Continue to Provide Political Support to Tehran

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that Russia and China continue to provide political support to Tehran amid US and Israeli military operations in the Middle East, and refused to detail cooperation with other countries. The report notes that US-Israeli strikes reportedly killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, prompting Tehran's retaliation, and includes Russia's condemnation and calls for de-escalation.

Indonesian Ministry of Forestry Denies Deforestation Allegations by Wood Pellet Industry

The Indonesian Ministry of Forestry reiterated its commitment to sustainable forest management, emphasising ecological, social, and economic considerations and addressing the EU's deforestation regulation anda traceability requirements. In a meeting with Tokyo Gas and Hanwa, authorities outlined a geolocation-based monitoring system and safeguards within the annual work plan to protect protected areas and wildlife; the article notes ongoing scrutiny from Japanese NGOs over deforestation risks.

Indonesia More Vulnerable to Tropical Cyclones, What's Causing It?

Indonesia has long been seen as relatively safe from tropical cyclones, but new BRIN findings suggest heightened vulnerability due to warming seas and climate change. Researchers note numerous cyclones forming around and within Indonesian territory, underscoring shifting patterns and risks such as the 2021 Cyclone Seroja.

BPBD East Java checks EWS to ensure it operates during extreme weather

East Java's regional disaster management agency BPBD has begun checks on the Early Warning System (EWS) equipment across the province to ensure it functions during extreme weather. Led by BPBD Chief Implementer Gatot Soebroto, the initiative follows warnings of floods, landslides, and tsunamis and involves communities, volunteers, and local officials; 71 EWS sites will be inspected across districts including Banyuwangi, Jember, Lumajang and Pacitan.

List of Jakarta ATM locations dispensing Rp10,000 and Rp20,000 notes for THR 2026

As Eid al-Fitr 2026 approaches, demand for small-denomination cash rises. Banks Mandiri and BNI are offering Rp10,000 and Rp20,000 note-dispensing ATMs across Jakarta to facilitate THR disbursement, while Bank Indonesia runs the SERAMBI Ramadan program to meet cash needs; Jakarta authorities also open THR help desks. The piece also notes tax rules and a police warning about fake THR circulars.

Fostering Solidarity, Golkar's DPP Distributes Thousands of Canned Rendang to Palestinians

The Golkar Party's Central Executive's mosque welfare board distributed 3,000 cans of ready-to-eat rendang as part of a Ramadan charity road show for Palestine, featuring the Palestinian Grand Imam. The event highlights Indonesia's humanitarian diplomacy and the role of mosques in fostering cross-border solidarity.

Video: Prabowo Holds Talks with Islamic Leaders, Here Is What Was Discussed!

Prabowo outlines Indonesia's reasons for joining the Trump-era Board of Peace and discusses mediation plans in the Middle East. Senior religious figures welcome the move as part of Indonesia's active, independent foreign policy and its efforts to expand international partnerships, including mediation between Iran and the United States.

Dasco Urges National Unity as Social Media Discourse Becomes Unhealthy

Vice Speaker of the Indonesian DPR, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, urged all parties to strengthen national unity and meaningfully contribute. He warned that civil society is currently divided, with people insulting each other and questioning government policies on social media, which he described as unhealthy. He said the Prabowo Subianto administration needs national unity to fulfil its promises and urged civil society to critique and offer ideas constructively, while giving the government time to deliver welfare.

Viral: Resident's Rice Cooker Package Swapped for Empty Cardboard Box in Depok, Police Probe Scene

A video shows a courier swapping a resident's package containing a rice cooker with an empty box in Sukatani, Tapos, Depok. The incident occurred on 5 March around 12:30 WIB and is under investigation by Cimanggis Police, with CCTV indicating a person resembling a courier was involved.

Directorate General of Taxes Carries Out Large-Scale Staff Shake-Up: 2,043 Employees Transferred

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Taxes announced a large-scale internal staff reshuffle, transferring 2,043 employees across roles including Objection Reviewers (Penelaah Keberatan) and Account Representatives, effective 30 March 2026. The move relies on two DJP regulations and is described as a routine civil-service exercise; affected staff face performance evaluations and LHKPN obligations.

Metro Jaya Police Foil 3 Kilograms of Cannabis Trafficking in Central Jakarta

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police's narcotics unit thwarted the distribution of 3 kilograms of cannabis in Tanah Abang, Central Jakarta, arresting two men. The seizure occurred on 4 March at the Mustika Hotel, with a total of 3,042 grams recovered. The suspects and evidence are being held for further investigation, and authorities urged the public to report drug activity.

Environmental Care: Brimob Gegana of PMJ Cleans Al-Magfiroh Mosque in Slipi

The Gegana Detachment of Brimob PMJ conducted a community clean-up at Al-Magfiroh Mosque in Slipi, led by AKP Mujiadi, in cooperation with the mosque's DKM. The exercise emphasised Brimob's commitment to public service and maintaining a clean, comfortable place of worship, with cleaners addressing areas from the courtyard to the prayer hall and windows.

Messi's Wide Smile After Trump Praises Cristiano Ronaldo

US President Donald Trump welcomed Inter Miami CF to the White House to celebrate their MLS Cup 2025 victory. In the Oval Office, he singled out captain Lionel Messi and also praised Cristiano Ronaldo, noting Barron Trump’s admiration for Messi as part of the interaction.

Verdict Hearing in Delpedro et al. Case: Defendant Wears a 'One Piece' Straw Hat

At the Central Jakarta District Court, the panel is due to decide the fate of four defendants in an alleged incitement case linked to the August 2025 protests. Khariq Anhar wore a straw hat reminiscent of Luffy from One Piece, while the others wore black; the prosecutor seeks a two-year prison term for each defendant with time served credit. The defendants say they will not be cowed, framing the case as political and asserting leadership even in prison.

Promotions under the 'Mudik ke Jakarta' programme

The Jakarta Experience Board, with Astindo DKI Jakarta and the Jakarta Provincial Tourism and Creative Economy Office (Disparekraf), launch Ramadan-to-Eid promotions under the Mudik ke Jakarta programme. It features hotel promos, shopping and transport vouchers, exclusive destination prices, transport discounts, city tours, and a Ramadan Stadium Tour at Jakarta International Stadium, aiming to boost Jakarta's tourism and the capital's creative economy.

Gibran Chairs Flood-Response Coordination in Tuban, Orders Immediate Restoration of Public Facilities

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming chaired a flood-management coordination meeting in Tuban, East Java, urging swift restoration of public facilities such as schools and places of worship. He called for urgent road repairs and drainage improvements, citing a need for rapid central–local action and warning of disease risks from floods, with a view to long-term mitigation to prevent recurrence.

BRIN Outlines the Nutritional Content of Local Foods to Support MBG Objectives

BRIN researchers say micro-nutrients in local foods can meet MBG's needs even with adjustments to locally sourced ingredients. They cite chicken liver—rich in vitamin A, iron, B12, copper and selenium—and small fish such as anchovies as strong micronutrient sources, alongside greens like katuk, kangkung and spinach. The MBG programme will continue through Ramadan and holidays with adjusted distribution, while BGN improves menus, packaging, and budget transparency to ensure safety and meet national nutrition standards.

BBM Stock Safe, Jakarta Provincial Government Urges Residents Not to Panic-Buy

Jakarta's BBM stock is declared safe ahead of Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijri, with the Pemprov Jakarta urging residents not to panic-buy. The Governor says Jakarta is prioritised for BBM supply and stock is managed with the central government, while Pertamina in Aceh reassures the public that supplies remain sufficient.

Nothing Phone (4a) and Nothing Phone (4a) Pro Debut in Distinct Styles

Nothing has officially unveiled its latest smartphones, the Nothing Phone (4a) and Nothing Phone (4a) Pro, each sporting a distinct design language. Both run Nothing OS 4.1 on Android 16 and are promised three major OS updates plus six years of security updates. The 4a stays minimalist with a pill-shaped camera module and Glyph Bar lighting, while the 4a Pro adopts a bolder, metal-bodied design with a Glyph Matrix back display, a larger high-brightness OLED screen, and upgraded cameras.

US and Venezuela agree to re-establish diplomatic relations

Venezuela severed diplomatic relations with the United States in January 2019 over ongoing U.S. interference in its internal affairs. By March, all U.S. embassy staff had withdrawn, and in early January a U.S. operation captured President Nicolás Maduro and his wife before a U.S. diplomatic mission arrived in Caracas on 31 January, signalling renewed diplomatic contact.

Pramono Assures Jakarta’s Food and Fuel Stocks Are Safe, Urges Residents Not to Panic

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung said that stocks of staple foods and fuel in Jakarta remain sufficient despite tensions arising from the US–Iran conflict. He noted modest price rises only in some commodities and announced measures to secure meat supply ahead of Eid al-Fitr; the city will prioritise fuel distribution and urges residents not to panic while the government monitors the situation.

Middle East Conflict Escalates, Chair of Commission VIII Proposes Hajj Flight Route Via Africa

Marwan Dasopang, chair of DPR's Commission VIII, proposed an Africa-based diversion for Hajj flights if the Middle East conflict continues to escalate. He argued the government should prepare contingency arrangements to safeguard pilgrims, noting flights could depart from Jeddah to Nairobi and then traverse the African continent over open sea, avoiding Yemen. He warned the Africa route would lengthen travel times and emphasised that any extra costs should not be passed on to pilgrims, suggesting funding could be sought from BPKH, though he cautioned the fund may not be able to cover such expenses.

Deputy Minister of Law and Human Rights: Administrative sanctions should be prioritised over criminal penalties

Deputy Minister of Law and Human Rights Edward Omar Sharif Hiariej says administrative sanctions must take precedence over criminal penalties where both apply, reflecting the ultimum remedium principle. He notes that the new KUHP signals a shift towards corrective and restorative justice, while KUHAP moves from crime control to a due process model that protects human rights. He also emphasises reading the new KUHP alongside Law No. 1 of 2026 on Penalty Adjustment, which introduces 55 changes to the national KUHP.

Cipayung orphanage stresses that baby adoption must undergo stringent assessment

The PSAA Tunas Bangsa in Cipayung emphasises that adoption of a baby found in Pasar Minggu must pass strict assessments and a court determination of the child’s status, with final approval governed by national and regional regulations on adoption. Prospective adoptive parents must meet legal and welfare criteria and undergo social-worker assessments, and Ameera Ramadhani’s health and best interests are the priority while in shelter care.

509 North Jakarta residents pass Free Mudik verification; Solo the most popular destination

Five hundred and nine North Jakarta residents have cleared verification for the Free Mudik programme, with 171 choosing one-way departures and 338 registering for round trips. Solo emerges as the most popular destination, ahead of Wonogiri, Palembang and Semarang, and five motorcycles will also be sent to home towns to support travellers. Verification ran from 25 February to 5 March 2026, following online registration from 22 February to 2 March, ahead of departures scheduled for 16–17 March 2026; officials say the scheme eases economic burden and promotes public transport over private vehicles.

Bhakti Kencana Health Polytechnic Develops Competency-Based Health Education Aligned with the World of Work

Poltekes Bhakti Kencana is expanding its vocational health education with competency-based curricula and strong industry linkages, emphasising practical training and internships. Led by Dr H. A. Mulyana, the institution leverages a wide academic network and a team of qualified lecturers to produce career-ready health professionals with integrity and humane values.

Gaikindo Says Using B50 Won't Be a Problem for Vehicles, Provided the Mix Is Proper

Gaikindo says a 50% palm-oil biodiesel blend (B50) should not harm vehicles, provided the composition is properly regulated and supplemented with Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). The main barrier is the high cost of HVO, which could raise diesel prices and dampen consumer uptake, while efficiency could also be affected in some cases. The industry calls for a balanced approach to secure affordability and performance.

Israeli air strikes hit southern Beirut after evacuation warning

Israel carried out a new wave of air strikes on the southern outskirts of Beirut hours after Israel ordered the Dahieh district to evacuate. The Lebanese Health Ministry said fatalities had risen to 123 with 683 wounded since Monday. Amid the escalation, Lebanon's President Aoun spoke with French President Macron to seek mediation, and Macron pledged emergency aid; Hezbollah had earlier fired missiles and drones toward Israel in what it described as retaliation for the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and ongoing attacks on Lebanon.

West Papua Police name two suspects in Rp4.297 billion Bawaslu Pegaf grant corruption

The West Papua Regional Police have named two suspects in a case of alleged corruption involving grant funds allocated to Bawaslu Pegaf for election monitoring, totalling Rp4.297 billion. Suspects JPR (secretary of Bawaslu Pegaf/PPK) and MY (treasurer) allegedly diverted funds from two grant periods, with additional funds unaccounted for. Police have seized assets and charged the suspects under applicable anti-corruption laws, with investigations continuing alongside oversight from BPKP and interviews with ten witnesses.

Mindful All-You-Can-Eat Eating Is Important to Avoid GERD

A senior Indonesian health expert warns that All You Can Eat dining, especially with red meat, can increase GERD risk if not approached with caution. He explains that excessive red meat consumption and rapid, large portions can cause stomach dilation and even serious complications requiring hospital intervention. Diners are advised to chew slowly and eat in small portions to avoid problems.

Joy of SDN 07 Palmerah Pupils as They Receive Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) from Polri's SPPG During Ramadan

During Ramadan, pupils at SDN 07 Pagi Palmerah receive Free Nutritious Meals distributed by Polri's SPPG Palmerah. The programme emphasises nutritional standards, in-house preparation and safety checks, with pupils expressing happiness and thanking President Prabowo.

Six kidnappers of a Ukrainian national in Bali were foreigners with dual passports

Police in Bali say six suspects in the kidnapping of Ukrainian national Igor Komarov (28) are foreign nationals who hold multiple passports. Authorities have issued a wanted list (DPO) and red notices as they coordinate with Immigration, Divhubinter Polri, and Interpol to locate them. The case also involves DNA confirmation that the severed remains found in Ketewel match the victim, with investigators continuing to probe potential links to a wider criminal network.

Jababeka's Cikarang Industrial Area Becomes Indonesia's First Industrial Tourism City

PT Jababeka Tbk has declared its Jababeka industrial estate in Cikarang, Bekasi, West Java, as Indonesia's first industrial tourism city, combining manufacturing activity with educational tourism within one integrated estate. The move is expected to enhance the area’s identity and spur local economic growth through job creation and wider social engagement.

Sri Lanka to handle Iranian vessel in accordance with international law

Sri Lanka's president said the government has assumed control of operations concerning the Iranian Navy vessel IRIS Bushehr and its crew, acting as a neutral state under international law, while authorities evacuate the crew and relocate the vessel from the country’s main commercial port. The decision follows the vessel's report to Sri Lanka's Foreign Ministry requesting entry and reflects adherence to UNCLOS obligations; the plan involves moving the crew ashore by naval vessel to Colombo and then relocating the ship to Trincomalee after medical checks and registration of personnel.

Ahead of Eid al-Fitr, the Social Affairs Ministry has disbursed Rp 193.7 billion in livelihood security assistance for flood victims in Sumatra

As of 5 March 2026, Rp 193.7 billion has been disbursed to some 143,496 flood victims in Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra, with Rp 450,000 per person per month for three months. The programme, part of a broader drive led by the Home Affairs Minister to accelerate rehabilitation, will continue in a second phase with a total budget of Rp 335.59 billion targeting 248,588 beneficiaries from 67,886 households. Distribution is handled by PT Pos Indonesia through offices and community points ahead of Eid al-Fitr.

Huawei Launches AI Data Platform to Accelerate Enterprise AI Adoption

During Huawei's AI DC Innovation Forum at MWC Barcelona 2026, Huawei unveiled the AI Data Platform to address challenges in deploying AI agents and strengthen data foundations for digital transformation. The platform integrates a knowledge base, KV cache, and memory bank managed via UCM, enabling enterprise AI agents to move from demonstration to operational use. Huawei plans further investment in AI data infrastructure and to collaborate with customers and partners to broaden AI adoption across industries.

Peruri distributes basic food parcels and aid to Bazis Peruri wards during Ramadan

Peruri distributed 400 basic food parcels and aid to children under Bazis Peruri's care as part of its Ramadan 2026 social programme. The activities included Eid clothing donations and a communal iftar in Jakarta, with the initiative emphasising care, togetherness and lasting impact in Karawang and Jakarta.

Health Minister Makes Surprise Visit to Inspect RSUD North Nias’ Quick-Win, Issues These Observations

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin inspected RSUD Tafaeri in North Nias as part of the Quick Win Programme for hospitals in 3T areas. He noted progress but stressed the need for final fixes and more specialist doctors, with road access improvements and local training planned to support the hospital's role as a regional health hub.

KPK to Question Husband and Child of Pekalongan Regent, Probe Company Set Up by Fadia and Family

Indonesia's anti-corruption agency KPK is set to question the husband and child of Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq in relation to alleged irregularities in outsourcing services procurement. Investigators will also probe a company established by Fadia and her family, including possible flows of funds linked to PT RNB. The timing of the examinations has not been disclosed.

Delpedro Jelang Sidang Vonis: Apa Pun Hasilnya Tak Ubah Sikap Kami

Delpedro Marhaen, Direktur Lokataru Foundation, menyatakan siap menghadapi sidang pembacaan putusan kasus dugaan penghasutan di PN Jakarta Pusat. Ia menegaskan tidak akan mengubah sikap meski hasil sidang beragam, dan berharap putusan tersebut menjadi yurisprudensi bagi tahanan politik terkait demonstrasi Agustus 2025.

XXI cinema audiences reach 85 million in 2025

XXI cinemas logged 85 million filmgoers in 2025, with ticket sales of Rp3.6 trillion and food-and-beverage revenue of Rp2 trillion. The group expanded its network by 12 cinemas and 43 screens, buoyed by premium formats and strong demand for local films, including several titles surpassing one million viewers.

Doctor says earwax helps maintain ear canal health

An ENT specialist warns against over-cleaning ears, noting that cerumen plays a protective role in the ear canal. He explains that cerumen's acidity and immunoglobulins help deter infection, and cleaning is only necessary when it occludes about 30% of the canal's diameter. Excessive cleaning with cotton buds can injure the skin and invite infection, so medical check-ups are advised for ear pain, itching, or hearing loss.

Strengthening Ties with Minhaajurrosyidiin at Pondok Gede: AHY Urges Pesantren–Government Synergy

AHY, the Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, visited Pondok Pesantren Minhaajurrosyidiin in East Jakarta, delivering a public lecture and symbolically distributing aid to orphans and the surrounding community. He emphasised the need for ongoing collaboration between government, pesantren, and local residents to build sustainable social care and equitable regional development.

Central Java Government Launches 333 Affordable Food Campaigns to Control Staple Prices

The Central Java provincial government has launched a programme to stabilise staple food prices during Ramadan 2026, aiming to ease public access to essential goods and curb inflation. The initiative has already been executed 333 times under the coordination of the Food Security Service, with a simultaneous rollout across 35 districts and cities.

Two Chinese Firms Appointed as Waste-to-Energy Operators

Two Chinese companies have been appointed to operate waste-to-energy facilities in Bekasi and Denpasar, with a requirement to form a consortium with regional and local partners for technology transfer. The announcement highlights Indonesia's push for high-standard, integrated waste management and clean energy generation, supported by Danantara and local authorities.

Video: US Says Attacks on Iran Are Only Beginning

The US warns that Iran's recent attacks are only the start, with Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth warning Iran not to underestimate America's willingness to sustain the conflict. Admiral Brad Cooper says Iran's naval strikes have escalated, while former President Donald Trump has claimed he would sink or destroy 24 ships; Washington says it will target Iran's ability to rebuild, not its assets. The remarks feature on CNBC Indonesia's Power Lunch programme on Friday, 6 March 2026.

Announcement! Electric Motorcycles Cannot Join Motis Lebaran 2026 Programme

The Indonesian Ministry of Transportation has said electric motorcycles cannot be transported under the Motis free motorcycle transport programme during the Lebaran 2026 period, due to the lack of a standard operating procedure for handling electric vehicles on rail wagons. Motis will continue to cater to conventional motorcycles, with the government aiming to reduce road accidents associated with high-traffic two-wheelers and expanding routes for Lebaran 2026.

PRR Task Force Inspects Huntara in Pidie Jaya with Social Affairs Minister and Aceh Deputy Governor

The PRR task force, chaired by the Minister of Home Affairs, inspects temporary shelters in Pidie Jaya together with the Minister of Social Affairs and the Aceh Deputy Governor, checking facilities and discussing evacuation plans ahead of Eid al-Fitr. West Sumatra has completed relocations, while Aceh and other provinces are still completing theirs.

Metro Jaya Police Foil 3kg Cannabis Trafficking in Tanah Abang, 2 Men Arrested

Police from Unit 5 Subdit 3 Ditresnarkoba Polda Metro Jaya foiled cannabis trafficking in Tanah Abang, Central Jakarta, seizing about 3 kilograms. Two men, identified by initials B (53) and T (49), were arrested at a hotel following a tip-off from the public. The suspects and the seized drugs are being held at Ditresnarkoba Polda Metro Jaya for further investigation.

The Meaning of Megawati's Letter Amid Middle East Geopolitical Dynamics

Following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, Megawati Sukarnoputri, Indonesia's fifth president, sent an official condolence letter to Iran via its Jakarta embassy. The piece interprets the gesture as a form of moral diplomacy that foregrounds Indonesia's historical ties with Iran and its foreign policy principles, even as Middle East tensions escalate. It also situates the letter within broader geopolitics, where Iran's dual roles as religious authority and political leader shape regional dynamics.

Pansus 12 Bandung City DPRD Prepares New Social Welfare Regulation, Substantive Content Changes by More Than 50 Per Cent

The Bandung City Council's Special Committee 12 is drafting a new regional regulation on social welfare, moving beyond a simple amendment to Regulation No. 24 of 2012. The changes exceed 50 per cent, covering strengthening Lembaga Kesejahteraan Sosial (LKS) licensing and registration, the collection of money and goods (PUB), and free prize draws (UGB), and including reporting requirements for cross-regional activities. The draft regulation is being harmonised with central regulations, studied in Jakarta, and is targeted for plenary approval within a month.

Prices Surge, Six Indonesian Coal Barons Grow Richer

Coal prices rose to around US$138 per tonne, the highest since November 2024, after an outage at Qatar’s LNG facilities boosted fuel-switching demand in power generation. The article profiles six Indonesian coal magnates—Low Tuck Kwong, the Widjaja family, Garibaldi Thohir, Kiki Barki, Edwin Soeryadjaya, and TP Rachmat—who have seen their wealth grow as the coal mining sector remains robust amid strong global demand.

Indonesia holds 324-day rice supply as monthly output at 5.7M tonnes

Indonesia says monthly rice production can range from 2.6 to 5.7 million tonnes, surpassing the monthly consumption of about 2.59 million. Total rice stocks stand at 27.99 million tonnes, comprising Bulog stocks of 3.76 million, public reserves of 12.50 million, and 11.73 million of standing crops, with projected production of around 16.92 million tonnes from January to May 2026. The government plans to boost stocks to around 5 million tonnes in the next two months and expand anticipatory measures, including irrigation pumps for about two million hectares, a 20% cut in fertilizer prices, and swamp-land utilisation to secure production in dry seasons.

Welcomed by Residents, Kang DS Launches Affordable Food Campaign in Sapan Village, Tegalluar

Kang DS, the Bandung Regent, overseeing a Cheap Food Movement in Sapan Village, Tegalluar, Bandung, aims to stabilise staple prices and help residents ahead of Ramadhan. The program distributes discounted goods via coupon incentives and expands across the district, alongside zakat distributions to orphans and the poor.

Rice Production at 5.7 Million Tonnes per Month, Agriculture Minister Assures Indonesia's Food Supply Is Safe for 324 Days Ahead

Indonesia's Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman says the national food supply is secure for 324 days, with rice production up to 5.7 million tonnes per month and Bulog stocks rising. Projections through early 2026 indicate a strong supply outlook, and the government plans expanded irrigation to mitigate drought risks.

Middle East Tensions Escalate, DPR's Commission VIII Proposes Hajj Flight Route Via Africa

Marwan Dasopang, head of DPR's Commission VIII, proposed that the government prepare a scenario for Haj flight routes through Africa if the Middle East conflict continues to escalate, to avoid conflict-prone areas. He cautioned that the route could lengthen flights and raise costs, calling for coordination with airlines and other Haj service providers, and questioned funding responsibilities, suggesting the BPKH might not be able to cover cost overruns.

Task Force Chief Tito Karnavian Inspects Temporary Shelters and Holds Dialogue with Refugees in Pidie Jaya

Tito Karnavian, who chairs the Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Acceleration Task Force for Sumatra, visited hunting shelters in Pidie Jaya with the Social Minister and Aceh’s deputy governor, outlining four types of temporary housing and emphasising accelerated relocation from tents to better housing under the Wait-for-Housing scheme ahead of Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijri. He noted BNPB will cover meals for ten days, after which the Social Affairs Ministry will fund daily meals.

Indonesia to implement mandatory B50 biodiesel, carbon emissions to fall

Indonesia is moving towards a gradual, policy-backed expansion of biodiesel blending, with the aim of reaching B50 as part of net-zero emissions by 2060 and in line with PP 40/2025 and the National Energy Policy. While the shift could reduce fossil fuel use and emissions, officials are emphasising energy security and a staged rollout to address potential technical issues and regional readiness, cautioning against abrupt nationwide implementation.

Unexpected: Brazilian Cars Use Bioethanol, Engines Imported from Karawang

Gaikindo says Brazil uses Karawang-made engine components in its cars, with engines able to run on ethanol blends up to E85. The finding highlights Indonesia's potential if policy and industry align, as domestic ethanol usage sits around E5. The government is finalising a roadmap to mandatorily blend bioethanol and diversify feedstocks, drawing lessons from India.

Digitalisation of THR Disbursement Service System Speeds Up Payouts

PT Taspen (Persero) reports that 99% of THR recipients were paid 12 days before Eid al-Fitr, with Rp10.5 trillion disbursed to 3.2 million beneficiaries. The organisation attributes the faster THR payouts to a digital transformation of its service system, slashing administration time from 3 days to 1 day and accelerating payments for 2026. The move aligns with government directives and features oversight visits by Taspen's leadership to ensure smooth delivery.

1,212 inmates at Lombok Barat Class IIA Prison eligible for Nyepi-Idul Fitri remission; 6 released

A total of 1,212 inmates at Lombok Barat Class IIA Prison were proposed for special Nyepi and Idul Fitri remissions for 2026, with six inmates released immediately. The remissions break down to 63 Hindu inmates for Nyepi and 1,149 Muslim inmates for Idul Fitri, with proposals still under central verification; remission durations range from 15 days to two months and are guided by Law No. 22 of 2022 on Prison Management. The process is conducted transparently via the System Penilaian Pembinaan Narapidana (SPPN).

APVINDO Warns That Rules Not Grounded in Economic Analysis Could Hit Industry and Millions of Workers

APVINDO warns that regulations on vape must be grounded in scientific study and thorough economic analysis, or risk undermining the legal vape industry and the livelihoods of millions of workers and MSMEs. The association urges transparent, data-based policymaking that considers full impacts, warning that a rushed, ban-like approach could push the market underground and jeopardise harm-reduction aims for adult smokers.

Garuda Indonesia Discounts Air Tickets Up to 20 Percent for Lebaran 2026: Routes and Prices

Garuda Indonesia has announced a Takjil Ramadhan promotion offering up to 20% off airfares for domestic and international routes ahead of Lebaran 2026. Customers can pay by cash or in three monthly instalments at 0% interest through 12 partner banks, with online booking via garuda-indonesia.com or the FlyGaruda app. The government is also planning broader mudik support across other transport modes, while a separate ministerial quote cited a government subsidy of up to 18% on airfares; the move aims to ease travel costs for homecoming.

US war costs against Iran hit Rp15 trillion per day

CSIS estimates that in the first 100 hours of the US–Iran conflict, expenditures reached USD 3.7 billion, about Rp64.291 trillion, or USD 891.4 million per day (Rp15 trillion). The think tank warns that the Department of Defence will need more funds than currently budgeted as the conflict could last for weeks, with initial air strikes costly due to advanced weaponry. The report stresses that unbudgeted costs could be substantial and politically challenging to fund; Trump has faced criticism amid allegations the strike aligned with Israel, with over 1,000 killed.

Trump Wants to 'Venezuela-ize' Iran, Insists on Involvement in Selecting a New Supreme Leader

US President Donald Trump says he wants to be directly involved in selecting Iran's next Supreme Leader after Ayatollah Khamenei's death, rejecting Khamenei's son as unfit. He cites Venezuela's leadership change as a model and praises Delcy Rodríguez, signalling a possible preferred ally in Iran. Analysts warn that Iran's unique clergy-led leadership and current hostilities render any such involvement unlikely and potentially destabilising.

Indonesian Defence Attache in Abuja Secures Release of Four Indonesian Crew Members Kidnapped by Pirates off Gabon

Indonesian Defence Attache in Abuja, Colonel Cke Aslam Setiawan, helped secure the release of four Indonesian crew abducted by pirates off Gabon after negotiations, with nine crew members released in total. The crew arrived in Lagos, Nigeria, following the negotiation that concluded on 3 March 2026.

InJourney Airports Introduce Ramadan Ambience at Airports Ahead of Mudik

InJourney Airports has launched Ramadan-themed installations across major Indonesian airports, starting with Soekarno-Hatta in Jakarta and I Gusti Ngurah Rai in Bali. The pilot projects feature 'Serene Crescent' and 'Desert Harmony' installations, including tunnel gates and a large ornamental dome, aimed at enhancing passenger experience during the Eid exodus when air travel peaks.

OJK records new financing by multifinance reaching Rp78.16 trillion in January 2026

In January 2026, new financing disbursements by Indonesia's multifinance industry totalled Rp78.16 trillion, led by multi‑purpose financing (47.47%). Four-wheeled vehicle financing reached Rp229.43 trillion by January, with electric vehicle funding up 39.13% year on year to Rp21.05 trillion; the authorities expect 6-8% industry growth in 2026.

BRIN researcher reminds SPPG to meet micronutrients and prevent 'hidden hunger'

Prof Fitrah Ernawati of BRIN urged all SPPG to ensure micronutrient sufficiency to curb hidden hunger, emphasising iron, zinc, iodine and vitamin A. She called for MBG standardisation across Indonesia to meet AKG levels for key micronutrients.

Video of Jokowi with Pekalongan Regent Circulating, What Was Discussed?

Video footage shows President Jokowi meeting Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq amid ongoing KPK investigations; he says the visit is unrelated to the case and respects the legal process. The KPK has detained Fadia for 20 days as part of an alleged procurement corruption probe in Pekalongan Regency for 2023-2026.

Ramadan and the Spirit of Badr: Lessons in Strategy, Deliberation, and Discipline from the Battle of Badr

During Ramadan, the Battle of Badr in the second year of the Hijri calendar is presented as a leadership lesson. Despite being outnumbered and poorly equipped, the Muslim force achieved a strategic victory rooted in careful planning, information gathering, consultation, and disciplined unity. The article argues that faith must be complemented by preparation and deliberation, with Ramadan training discipline in individuals and communities.

There is a war involving Iran, Amran says calm — Prabowo has been ready since inauguration

Indonesia's Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman says the government has prepared a national food-security strategy to withstand geopolitical shocks, with scenarios mapped since President Prabowo Subianto's 2024 inauguration. He cites conflicts such as Russia–Ukraine and Israel–Iran and assures domestic food production will remain unaffected.

Under-16 Accounts on YouTube, TikTok, and Roblox Officially Blocked From March 28

Indonesia's government, through the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi), has issued Permen No. 9 of 2026 requiring the deactivation of under-16 accounts on eight major platforms, including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live, and Roblox. The regulation, a technical rule deriving from PP No. 17 of 2025 on the governance of online systems protecting children, will be rolled out gradually as platforms comply. Officials say the measure aims to shield youths from pornography, cyberbullying, online scams, and addiction, and to give families greater protection against algorithm-driven risks.

Tensions Rise as Iran Threatens to Strike Israel's Nuclear Reactor

Iran warns it could target Israel's Dimona nuclear site in response to the ongoing US-Israeli bombardment of Tehran and other Iranian cities, as Washington and Tel Aviv pursue regime change and aim to thwart Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile programmes. The Dimona complex is widely associated with Israel's alleged nuclear weapons programme, and the report also notes a recent clash involving a US submarine and an Iranian warship near Sri Lanka.

Conduction Hearing Loss Can Occur at Any Age

A specialist in ear, nose and throat explains that conductive hearing loss results from obstruction to sound transmission before it reaches the inner ear’s cochlea, affecting people of all ages. It is usually caused by issues in the outer or middle ear, can be temporary, and is treatable with medical intervention; examples include earwax buildup and Eustachian tube dysfunction.

Mampang Police Explain Nabilah O’Brien Case, Kemang Restaurant Owner

The Mampang Prapatan police say there are two separate cases concerning Nabilah O’Brien, owner of a Kemang restaurant, being handled by different police offices. In the first case, Nabilah reported a couple, identified as ZK and ESR, for alleged theft under Article 363 of the KUHP, with suspects named and set for examination on Monday, 9 March 2026, though their counsel has sought a postponement. In the second case, the couple reported Nabilah to the Dittipidsiber Bareskrim for posting CCTV footage, with NAA named as a respondent.

The Prophecy That the Jewish People Will Perish in Palestine Has Not Yet Come to Pass, Says the Ulama

An Indonesian religious article asserts a prophecy that Jews will perish in Palestine, attributed to a Muslim scholar, and cites hadith that Muslims will fight and kill Jews before the Day of Judgment. It recounts historical claims of Zionist expansion with British support and accuses Zionists of genocide in Gaza. The piece presents a stark, inflammatory interpretation of the conflict.

Netflix acquires Ben Affleck-founded AI-based film startup InterPositive

Netflix has reportedly acquired InterPositive, a Los Angeles-based AI startup founded by Ben Affleck that develops AI tools for filmmakers. All 16 employees will join Netflix, with Affleck serving as a senior adviser; the company plans to offer InterPositive’s technology to Netflix’s creative partners rather than selling it commercially. The acquisition follows Netflix’s withdrawal from a bid for Warner Bros. Discovery’s studio and streaming business, marking a rare external tech purchase for the streamer.

There Are Already Many Human Replacements Emerging; The Future Looks Bleaker

Humanoid robots capable of replacing human labour are advancing rapidly, with Apptronik securing US$520 million in funding at a valuation above US$5 billion, backed by Alphabet's Google DeepMind. The piece highlights potential disruption to manufacturing and logistics work, driven by AI-enabled autonomous capabilities, while noting that production costs and scale remain major hurdles; firms are already pursuing contracts worth more than US$1.2 billion, and Elon Musk has floated the idea that humanoid robots could outnumber humans.

Depok City Government Cannot Repair Arif Rahman Hakim Street as It Is Central Government Property

Arif Rahman Hakim Street in Depok is reported to be badly damaged with potholes and a narrow, uneven surface. Officials say the road is officially classified as a national road or central government asset, meaning the city government cannot repair it, while residents have been filling holes amid deteriorating conditions.

OJK Traces DSI Assets to Recover Lenders’ Funds

The Indonesian Financial Services Authority (OJK) is coordinating with police to trace assets linked to Dana Syariah Indonesia (DSI) as it seeks to recover funds for lenders, following the detention of three DSI executives on fraud and embezzlement charges. OJK is also monitoring governance plans for the General Meeting of Fund Providers (RUPD) and ongoing lender communications. The case spans 2018–2025 and involves alleged multi-layer embezzlement, fraud and money laundering.

Resident Evil Requiem Surpasses 5 Million Units

Capcom announced that worldwide sales of Resident Evil Requiem, released on 27 February 2026, have surpassed 5 million units. The game uses RE ENGINE and offers flexible difficulty and switching between first- and third-person perspectives, contributing to strong early reception including four awards at Gamescom 2025. Capcom emphasised its commitment to delivering entertaining experiences as the Resident Evil franchise approaches its 30th anniversary.

Jokowi Reveals Contents of Prabowo's Meeting with Former Presidents, Ex-Foreign Ministers, and Party Chairmen

Joko Widodo disclosed what Prabowo Subianto discussed with former presidents and other senior figures, focusing on Indonesia's prospective entry to the Board of Peace and the Indonesia–US trade tariff regime, including 1,800 zero‑tariff items. Jokowi says this tariff structure could boost Indonesia's exports to the United States, where the country runs a sizeable trade surplus of around USD 18 billion.

Lebaran Topat Festival 2026 to Be Held at Senggigi’s Pasar Seni Amphitheatre

The West Lombok Regency will host the Lebaran Topat Festival 2026 at the Senggigi Pasar Seni Amphitheatre, featuring a parade representing NTB districts. The event will start with a cidomo procession from Batu Layar and aims to boost local economy and tourism, inviting all NTB regencies to participate with traditional dress and regional characteristics, with prizes for standout performances.

Capcom’s Resident Evil Requiem Surpasses 5 Million Units!

Capcom announced that Resident Evil Requiem, released on February 27, 2026, has sold over 5 million units worldwide. The game, which marks the series’ 30th anniversary, showcases Capcom’s RE ENGINE and features both first‑ and third‑person perspectives, plus multiple difficulty levels. It followed strong pre-release acclaim at Gamescom 2025, where it won several awards, underscoring Capcom’s ongoing commitment to delivering high‑quality, entertaining experiences.

Kurdish opposition parties commit not to attack Iran

An Iraqi Kurdistan Democratic Party source said Kurdish opposition parties are unarmed and have signed an agreement not to attack Iran. The claims of U.S. air defence help or CIA arming were rejected by the source, who said the groups are political parties that have surrendered their weapons and abide by a security pact with Baghdad and Tehran. The report comes amid renewed Middle East tensions and ongoing nuclear talks in Geneva.

Andre Rosiade Distributes 300 Sembako Packages to Porters and Airport Workers at Minangkabau International Airport (BIM)

Andre Rosiade, deputy chair of DPR RI's Commission VI from the Gerindra faction, distributed 300 sembako parcels to porters, cleaning staff and other workers at Minangkabau International Airport (BIM). He used the occasion to listen to workers' experiences and hopes for higher flight activity at BIM, arguing that more flights would improve earnings for those on the frontline.

Mendes Urges Regional Governments to Report Village Potentials for Economic Development

Minister Yandri Susanto urged regional governments to report village potentials to Kemendes PDT for development into drivers of local economic activity, including programmes such as tourism villages and export villages. He outlined the ministry's commitment to technical support and 12 action plans, spanning from revitalising Village-Owned Enterprises to digitalisation and climate-resilient development, aimed at boosting welfare in lagging regions.

Indonesian House of Representatives Commission VIII Urges Preparation of Haj Scenarios if Middle East Tensions Persist

Marwan Dasopang urged the government to prepare multiple Haj scenarios as tensions in the Middle East escalate, including the possibility of cancelling pilgrim departures if security deteriorates. He stressed ensuring that pilgrims' payments are safeguarded and pressed for negotiations with service providers. He also outlined contingencies for pilgrims already in Saudi Arabia and noted that there has been no formal cancellation from Saudi authorities yet, keeping hope alive for this year's Hajj.

Amran Hails Prabowo as Arab Conflict Erupts, 20% Fertilizer Discount to Continue

Indonesia will maintain a 20% subsidised fertiliser discount for farmers even amid rising geopolitical tensions, with the government prepared to source fertiliser inputs from Russia, Laos, and Australia. The policy, championed by President Prabowo Subianto, aims to reduce farmers’ costs and boost national food production, potentially lifting the Nilai Tukar Petani (NTP) and farmer welfare.

Initial Volvo ES90 quota limited to eight units, shipments slated to begin in late April

Volvo Cars Indonesia has introduced the ES90 with an initial allocation of eight units, with shipments scheduled from late April to early May. Volvo regards the ES90 as a distinctive premium EV sedan that complements Indonesia’s preference for higher-riding vehicles, while signaling an expansion of Volvo’s EV lineup in the country.

UI Faculty of Medicine Professor Offers Tips to Prevent GERD Flare-Ups During Lebaran Mudik

A leading gastroenterologist from Universitas Indonesia urges travellers with a history of gastric problems to prepare for Lebaran mudik. He advises against travelling on an empty stomach, suggests bringing home-cooked meals, and plans for traffic-induced stress, warning that post-Lebaran dietary excess can worsen GERD and other gastric conditions, leading to more hospital visits in the first week after Lebaran.

Indonesian Defence Attaché in Abuja Frees Four Indonesian Crew Members Kidnapped by Pirates in Gabonese Waters

Nine crew members were freed in total, including four Indonesian nationals named Abdul Ajis, Aditia Permana, Mohamad Fardan Mubarok and Eka Trenggana, after negotiations with pirates. The release occurred off the Gabonese coast, with the four arriving in Lagos, Nigeria, on 5 March 2026, following a deal reached on 3 March 2026.

KPK Reveals How the Pekalongan Regent's Son Helped Fix the Project Winner

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has exposed interference by close associates of Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq in outsourcing procurement, including her son, as part of a scheme to secure a contract for PT RNB. The company, owned by the Regent's family, allegedly influenced local agencies and hospitals to award outsourcing work to RNB, even when cheaper bids existed; RNB controlled projects worth around Rp46 billion from 2023 to 2026. The KPK plans further questioning of Arafiq's husband and her son in relation to illicit funds and other entities.

BBPOM Mataram Finds Borax-Containing Foods in Lombok

BBPOM Mataram reports six borax-containing samples among 97 tested at markets in West and East Lombok; rapid tests did not detect hazardous substances, and authorities are engaging traders and tracing product sources to safeguard Ramadan food safety.

Islamic Economics and Innovations in Development Financing

Islamic economics in Indonesia is expanding, with KEKSI 2025 indicating the Halal Value Chain accounts for 27% of GDP in 2025 and growth in HVC sectors, supported by robust halal consumption and finance. Islamic banking financing rose around 9.66%, with halal food & beverage and Muslim-friendly tourism seeing roughly 20% growth, while ZISWAF and wakaf collections rose, illustrating a strengthening Islamic economy; however, a large financing gap remains to meet sustainable development goals, prompting proposed innovations to be discussed in Surabaya.

Indonesian Students' Association Condemns U.S.-Israel Attack on Iran

The Indonesian Students' Association (IPI) in Iran condemned the US-Israel attack on Tehran on 28 February 2026, which killed Supreme Leader Ali Hosseini Khamenei, calling it a provocation that threatens global peace. It denounced the assault as a cowardly breach of international law and human rights, expressed condolences for Khamenei, and urged respect for Iran's sovereignty while opposing foreign intervention. IPI framed the stance as in harmony with anti-colonial principles and called for a united opposition to hegemonic power that undermines world peace.

BRI Group Subsidiary Profits Surge to Rp10.38 Trillion as BRIVolution Reignite Transformation Strengthens New Growth Sources

BRI Group reports that its subsidiaries posted Rp10.38 trillion in net profit and Rp267 trillion in assets by end-Q4 2025, up 16.1% and 23.3% YoY. The group says cross-entity synergies contributed 18.2% of consolidated profit and 12.51% of consolidated assets, with BRIVolution Reignite driving growth by strengthening the subsidiary network.

Unsoed Academic: Middle East Conflict Disrupts Global Tourism

An Unsoed academic, Muhammad Yamin, warns that the Middle East conflicts since late February 2026 threaten global tourism by disrupting international air connectivity. He cites airspace closures affecting Gulf hub airports such as Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi, which has led to flight cancellations and Bali-bound routes being disrupted. He argues the disruptions could push up oil prices and airfares, potentially denting long-haul travel, and calls for Indonesia to diversify international routes and broaden tourist markets while emphasising geopolitical stability.

Recruiters Will Be Required to Provide BPJS Kesehatan to Domestic Workers

BPJS Kesehatan will become a mandatory requirement for employers hiring domestic workers, to be set in the draft Protection of Domestic Workers Bill (RUU PPRT). Alongside BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, the rule is highlighted by Baleg as a priority in the bill's discussions, with a target for enactment in 2026. The process emphasises careful, consultative drafting and the need for robust mechanisms for dispute resolution.

Aisyiyah Aims to Enrol All TK ABA Teachers in DIY in BPJS Ketenagakerjaan

The article reports that 897 TK ABA teachers in DIY have joined BPJS Ketenagakerjaan’s social security programmes, covering work accident protection (JKK) and death benefit (JKM). This is a fraction of about 3,000 teachers, with Aisyiyah planning to enrol all teachers gradually. The piece highlights the constitutional basis for social security and the push to expand protection for education workers, alongside BPJS Ketenagakerjaan’s broader universal coverage goals.

JTT halts non-pothole repair work on the Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road on 11 March

JTT will suspend road repairs other than pothole repair on the Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road on 11 March 2026 to prioritise the Lebaran mudik exodus. The toll operator has 10 maintenance teams on 10pm–5am shifts and around 300 personnel across Trans-Jawa to address potholes around the clock, illustrating government acceleration of Pantura and Trans-Jawa roadworks ahead of peak travel.

Video: Opportunities and Challenges as Insurance Drives Investment into Stocks

Government guidance urges pension funds and insurers to boost their equity allocations, but industry leaders emphasise that this must be managed with strong risk controls and comply with OJK rules, including solvency requirements. The CIO of BRI Asset Management warns that rising equity exposure could reduce liquidity in some stocks if demand concentrates, so a careful approach is essential.

Indonesia needs 150,000 more engineers for the digital sector: Govt

Indonesia needs about 150,000 more engineers for the digital sector within the next year to six years, including roughly 15,000 for the semiconductor industry. The government plans retraining via the Ministry of Manpower and a 15,000-engineer training program under a Danantara-ARM collaboration, while stressing AI readiness and strong growth prospects for the digital economy, projected to reach US$124 billion by 2025.

Six Ukrainian Kidnap Suspects Allegedly Hold Multiple Passports

The Bali Police have revealed new details about six suspects in the kidnapping of Ukrainian national Igor Komarov, whose dismembered body was found in Ketewel, Gianyar. All suspects are foreign nationals and are believed to possess more than one passport; authorities are coordinating with Immigration, Divhubinter, and Interpol, with a DPO and red notice issued. DNA testing confirmed the victim's identity, but investigators remain uncertain about potential links to a wider criminal network.

PLN EPI Secures 10-Year Gas Supply

PLN Energi Primer Indonesia (PLN EPI) has secured a 111 million standard cubic feet per day (MMSCFD) gas supply for 10 years from the Mako Gas Field, Natuna, following a Final Investment Decision (FID). The FID clears the path for construction and commissioning, with gas destined for Batam and central Sumatra as part of a broader domestic gas expansion and energy security plan.

Iran's missile and drone launches deemed to have waned; envoy says the battlefield will decide

Iran's ambassador to Indonesia rejected claims that Iran's weapons strength had weakened during the seventh day of the conflict with the United States and Israel, insisting Tehran still possesses a large stock of missiles and active production lines. CENTCOM reported sharp declines in missile and drone launches over the past four days, while Western officials attributed the drops to strikes on launch sites; the ambassador argued that only the battlefield will reveal who exhausts ammunition first.

Malaysia says approved investments hit record high of US$108 billion in 2025

Malaysia reported RM426.7 billion (US$108 billion) in approved investments for 2025, a new record and an 11% rise from 2024. Domestic investments totalled RM219.6 billion, with foreign investment up 20% to RM207.1 billion, across 8,390 projects that could create about 245,000 jobs. Officials also cited a healthy 2026 pipeline worth RM29.1 billion across 172 projects as Malaysia positions itself as a regional data-centre hub.

To avert a fuel crisis caused by war, Indonesia could ramp up this energy source

Executive Director Bhima Yudhistira of the Centre for Economic and Law Studies (CELIOS) urged Indonesia to accelerate electrification in transport and speed up the energy transition to mitigate possible oil supply disruptions from geopolitical tensions. He advocates expanding electric buses for mass transit and phasing out private fossil-fuel vehicles, while pressing for greater deployment of renewables in the national electricity system. He also cautions that simply increasing oil reserves or storage would not solve the problem, noting Indonesia's continued reliance on imports.

SAR team expands search for Merapi lahar flood victims

On the fourth day of operations, a joint SAR team expanded the search area for two missing victims of the Merapi lahar flood along the Senowo River in Dukun, Magelang Regency, to seven kilometres from the incident site. The effort involved three SRUs and additional heavy equipment to speed up rescue and debris removal, while obstacles include thick sand and rock deposits.

BNI Takes These Steps to Strengthen Synergy with Merchants

BNI hosted the wondrful Iftar with Merchant 2026 at the Fairmont Jakarta, drawing around 70 merchants from various retail segments. The bank unveiled digital solutions, including the wondr Merchant app with same-day settlement and 24-hour transaction monitoring, underscoring Ramadan as a moment to deepen merchant partnerships and grow the digital transaction ecosystem.

Economist: THR and Ojol bonuses spur Q1 economic growth

Indonesia's THR and BHR disbursements in 2026 total about Rp179.22 trillion, with a projected uplift to first-quarter GDP growth of 0.3-0.8 percentage points. However, inflation, particularly in food, remains a constraint on the stimulus, with February 2026 inflation at 4.76% year-on-year and volatile food around 4%. Potential energy inflation after Eid—driven by global tensions—adds to downside risks.

KSKP Bakauheni opens free vehicle custody service for Mudik travellers

Southern Lampung's Bakauheni Port Police (KSKP Bakauheni) has prepared a dedicated parking area to provide free vehicle custody for Mudik travellers ahead of Lebaran 2026. The service, located within the Polsek KSKP office, is 100% free and open to travellers regardless of residence, requiring only ID and a photocopy of the vehicle documents. Police urge the public to report any officers demanding payment to deposit vehicles, emphasising commitment to safe and comfortable Mudik.

Ireland opposes a joint US-Israel attack on Iran without UN mandate

Ireland's Foreign Minister Helen McEntee said Dublin opposes a US-Israel military strike on Iran without UN Security Council authorisation, stressing that all states must comply with international law and the UN Charter. The statement comes as US-Israel strikes were followed by Iranian retaliation amid ongoing nuclear talks in Geneva.

Rising Cyber Threats Put Security Operations Centres at the Heart of Business Resilience

Data has become a fundamental asset shaping a company's valuation and market trust as digital transformation accelerates. The article argues that cyber security is now a central risk management concern, with traditional passive IT security deemed insufficient; Security Operations Centres enable continuous monitoring to detect anomalies early and prevent crises that could halt operations. SOC monitors servers, cloud environments, employee devices, identity systems like Active Directory, and business communications to safeguard the enterprise.

Locations and Timings of Odd–Even Traffic on Central Java Toll Roads During Mudik

Authorities in Central Java will implement an odd–even traffic scheme on toll lanes during the Lebaran mudik and balik period in 2026, targeting specific segments and times. The plan runs from KM 47 on the Jakarta–Cikampek Toll Road to KM 414 on the Semarang–Batang Toll Road during mudik, with the reverse on balik; enforcement will be via electronic tickets rather than manual toll-gan attempts.

US Faces Possible Financial Crisis and Missile Strikes as It Fights Iran: What Is the Daily Cost of the Attacks?

The US reportedly faces a mounting financial burden in its conflict with Iran, with the Pentagon estimating war costs at about $1 billion per day. US Central Command says over 1,250 targets have been hit in the first 48 hours, while assets such as two aircraft carriers contribute to daily expenses in the millions. These figures hint at a heavy, potentially long-lasting economic strain beyond the initial bombing costs.

Why Zebras Can Never Be Domesticated Like Horses?

New research from the University of Arizona suggests that zebras' extreme stress responses, particularly susceptibility to capture myopathy, block domestication. Unlike horses, which have been part of human life for thousands of years, zebras remain wild. The study argues that the physiological response to humans is the decisive barrier, not size, diet, or social structure.

Sahroni asserts NasDem backs PPRT Bill: Bismillah, we will pass it this year

NasDem has reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to backing the RUU PPRT, the domestic workers protection bill that has stalled for more than two decades. The push comes as Parliament seeks to wrap up the legislation within the current session, amid concerns over violence and exploitation of largely female domestic workers and the need for a clear legal framework. If enacted, the bill would recognise workers' rights, protect them from abuse, and give authorities a strong basis to act against violations.

Indonesian Foreign Ministry: Middle East Governments Do Not Recommend Evacuation

The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said several Middle Eastern governments do not advise Indonesia to evacuate its citizens despite heightened tensions following the Iran-Israel-US conflict. Indonesia hosts about 519,412 nationals in the region, with conditions varying by country; authorities report no direct casualties, but some are stranded due to airspace restrictions and flight diversions, receiving accommodation and meals while awaiting onward travel. A 24-hour monitoring team was deployed to Jeddah and Madinah airports to assist stranded Umrah pilgrims, with ongoing coordination with travel partners.

Bank BJB (BJBR) Set to Issue Jumbo Bond Worth Rp932.41 Billion

Bank BJB plans to raise Rp932.41 billion through its Sustainability Bond Series I, Phase II 2026, issued in two tranches. Series A is Rp691.34 billion with a 6.00% fixed coupon and three-year tenor, while Series B is Rp241.07 billion with a 6.25% fixed coupon and five-year tenor. Both series are bullet-maturity bonds, issued at par, with dematerialised instruments except for Jumbo Certificates registered in the name of KSEI, and have been assigned an idAA rating by PEFINDO.

BAZNAS Sets Zakat al-Fitr for 2026: How to Calculate It

BAZNAS has fixed the Zakat al-Fitr amount for Ramadan 1447H / 2026 at Rp50,000 per person, equivalent to 2.5 kilograms of rice (about 3.5 litres). It also sets fidyah at Rp65,000 per person per day for those unable to fast. The article explains how to calculate Zakat al-Fitr based on dependents, the accepted forms of payment (rice or cash), and the payment window, urging donations through official channels to ensure proper distribution.

Theft Victim and Social Media Influencer Nabilah O'Brien Also Named a Suspect

Nabilah O'Brien, a social media influencer and restaurant owner, says she has been named a suspect in a police case after speaking publicly about a theft at her restaurant. The case comprises two separate matters: an alleged theft by customers and a separate matter over her posting CCTV footage online, in which she is also named a suspect. She has appealed to the DPR's Commission III and the Police Chief for legal protection and justice.

Instagram Influencer and Theft Victim Named a Suspect by Indonesian Police's Criminal Investigation Directorate (Bareskrim)

An Indonesian social media influencer and restaurant owner says she has been named a suspect after discussing the theft she experienced on social media. The case involves two separate proceedings—a theft accusation against two customers and a separate matter over posting CCTV footage online—and she has urged DPR RI’s Commission III and the police chief to ensure legal certainty and justice.

Rice stocks are abundant; Ministry of Agriculture opens up greater rice export opportunities

Indonesia’s rice production is rising, creating a larger potential surplus this year. The government is signalling export options to maintain domestic supply if the surplus continues to grow, with current reserves robust enough to cover about 324 days. Stock levels and production are expected to rise further as harvests begin in various regions.

Deputy Minister of Creative Economy says Alif Raya Market strengthens Indonesian Muslim fashion brands

The Indonesian Deputy Minister of Creative Economy, Irene Umar, described Alif Raya Market 2026 as a key platform for local modest fashion brands to bolster Indonesia's status as a world leader in Muslim fashion. The four-day event at Pasaraya Blok M in South Jakarta brings together local brands, lifestyle products, UMKM, and creative communities, reflecting government support for the growing creative economy. Romi Astuti of the Ministry highlighted Indonesia's potential to become the global hub for modest fashion, emphasising quality and pride in local brands.

Two Bahrain Hotels Hit by Missile Attack as Saudi Arabia and Qatar Claim to Have Intercepted Drones Linked to Iran

The Bahraini Interior Ministry reports that two hotels and a residential building in Manama were hit in an attack attributed to Iran, causing financial losses but no casualties. Saudi Arabia and Qatar say they intercepted missiles and drones in their airspace, while Iran prepares a new wave of attacks and claims to have used the Khaybar missile. The piece also covers broader regional tensions, including WHO reports on attacks on health facilities in Iran and other related security developments.

Reconsidering the death penalty in Indonesia's legal system

The narcotics-smuggling case involving almost two tonnes of methamphetamine in the waters off the Riau Islands has revived debate over the death penalty in Indonesia. A Batam court handed a crew member a five-year sentence after he was initially charged with the death penalty, prompting discussion on proportionality, justice, and human rights in capital punishment.

Komnas: Cases of violence against women in 2025 increase by 14.07 per cent

The Indonesian National Commission on Violence Against Women reports a 14.07 per cent rise in gender-based violence against women in 2025, reaching 376,529 cases. The annual report classifies incidents by reporting, prosecution, and rulings, with the majority stemming from Religious Court (Badilag) decisions. The report also notes a 10 per cent uptick in complaints to Komnas Perempuan and shows involvement of 97 institutions in data collection.

Danantara Appoints Two Chinese Firms as Waste-to-Energy Plant Operators in Bekasi and Denpasar

Danantara Indonesia has chosen Wangneng Environment and Zhejiang Weiming Environment Protection as operators of Waste-to-Energy plants in Bekasi and Denpasar, respectively, after a competitive international process. The move aligns with Indonesia’s 2025 Presidential Regulation No. 109 and includes a requirement for operator consortia with local Indonesian partners to foster technology transfer and domestic participation. The announcement aims to bolster operational reliability, safety, and the growth of sustainable energy from waste.

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman Says He Has Prepared a Food Security Strategy Since Prabowo's Inauguration

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman announced that the ministry has prepared a food security strategy to respond to geopolitical tensions and climate change dating from Prabowo Subianto’s inauguration. He outlined stock levels and forecasts, emphasising that preparations do not stop ongoing production, and highlighted drought mitigation measures and continued fertilizer subsidies amid global supply disruptions.

Xbox Isn’t Dead Yet, Microsoft Is Preparing New Console Project Helix

Microsoft has confirmed it will continue to develop the next-generation Xbox game console, codename Project Helix. The company says the console will also be able to run PC games, aligning it with a high-end PC gaming concept rather than a traditional console. A reveal is planned for the Game Developers Conference (GDC) Festival of Gaming in March 2026, making Project Helix the fifth Xbox generation since the original launch in 2001.

Response to 'panic buying', ESDM assures fuel prices will not rise and stocks remain secure

Indonesia's ESDM ministry guarantees that subsidised fuel prices such as Pertalite will not rise and that stock levels remain adequate ahead of Eid al-Fitr, despite volatility in global oil markets due to Middle East tensions. The government urges the public to avoid panic buying and ensures smooth distribution to regions; Pertamina confirms sufficient supplies in Aceh and outlines measures to bolster stock and distribution.

Post-November 2025 Flood, New Land Emerges at Parkit Beach

Following a flood in late November 2025, Parkit Beach near Padang has gained substantial new land due to sedimentation, creating lake-like depressions and small islands. West Sumatra Governor Mahyeldi Ansharullah visited to assess safety and potential development, with officials considering Parkit Beach as a possible new tourism destination if it is deemed safe. The site is attracting more visitors, though debris and environmental concerns remain.

Bahlil to Head Energy Transition Acceleration Task Force, Targets 120 Million Electric Motorbikes in Three Years!

President Prabowo Subianto has formally appointed Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia as head of the Energy Transition Acceleration Task Force to speed up the deployment of clean energy and reduce subsidies in the national budget. The initiative will prioritise solar power for schools and remote communities and aims to convert 120 million fossil-fuel motorcycles to electric within three to four years, alongside broader regulatory and industrial measures to bolster national energy resilience and support Indonesia's Net Zero goals.

KPK Probes Maidi's Receipt of Money as It Questions Deputy Speaker of Madiun Regency DPRD

Indonesia's anti-corruption agency KPK has deepened its probe into alleged cash payments linked to the Madiun city government as it questions Maidi and the deputy speaker of the Madiun Regency DPRD, alongside seven other witnesses. The inquiry also covers licences issued within Madiun City's administration and CSR funding practices. Earlier in January, the KPK carried out an arrest operation and named Maidi, Rochim Ruhdiyanto and Thariq Megah as suspects in two clusters involving extortion over contracts and CSR funds, and gratuities within the city government.

Higher oil prices boost upstream revenue

SKK Migas says higher global oil prices will boost upstream revenue, with the organisation noting a positive impact on upstream activity amid price gains. If the price rally persists, Indonesian oil and gas players could accelerate exploration and development in marginal or remote fields; sustained prices above $80 per barrel are seen as a potential driver of investment, while prices below $60 previously deterred activity.

Bullion-Bank Customers Jump to 5.7 Million

Indonesia's Coordinating Economic Minister Airlangga Hartarto announces bullion-bank customers have surged to 5.7 million, driven by higher gold prices and expanding gold lending. Pegadaian and Bank Syariah Indonesia remain the licensed bullion services, with gold deposits and loans climbing sharply as jewellery-gold inflation accelerates and global prices rise.

Becoming a Rabbani Servant, Not Just a Ramadani Servant

The article reframes Ramadan as a test of enduring spiritual discipline rather than seasonal piety, urging believers to become Rabbani—integrating divine values into all aspects of life. It proposes a practical programme to sustain momentum through the second and third ten days of Ramadan, emphasising energy management, digital minimalism, and ongoing devotion beyond Eid.

Detainee in Jambi escapes with family’s help after trial; officers attacked

A prisoner from Kejaksaan Negeri Tebo in Jambi fled after a court appearance, aided by his family. Officers were assaulted by the defendant’s family as he was being escorted back to a correctional facility, amid mediation efforts with the Anak Dalam community and their leaders.

Facing Global Uncertainty: Managing THR by Saving or Investing in Gold?

Rising geopolitical tensions and disruption to the Hormuz Strait threaten the global economy. The article weighs how Indonesians might handle their THR amid uncertainty, discussing gold as a traditional hedge in Islamic thought and noting a government official's advice to prioritise saving over stock investments. It also raises questions about Lebaran preparations and Indonesia's resilience.

Pertamina Encourages Dozens of MSMEs to Be Active and Empowered During Ramadan

PT Pertamina leverages Ramadan to boost micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by enabling their participation in strategic exhibitions across Jabodetabek and government venues. The events—SMEXPO Ramadan at Grha Pertamina, Dhawafest at the Ministry of Finance, and IFEX—aim to raise visibility, expand markets, and raise production capacity, benefiting 26 MSMEs. The programme reinforces Pertamina’s commitment to inclusive, sustainable national economic growth.

KPK to summon husband and son of Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq

The Indonesian anti‑graft agency (KPK) will summon the husband Mukhtaruddin Ashraff Abu and son Muhammad Sabiq Ashraff for questioning over suspected channeling of funds to PT Raja Nusantara Berjaya (RNB) in a case involving Pekalongan regent Fadia Arafiq. Fadia is alleged to have had full control of RNB and to have steered contracts to relatives and trusted aides; she was named a suspect on 4 March 2026 and detained for 20 days from 4 to 23 March. The case highlights alleged family involvement in outsourcing procurement in Pekalongan and the movement of billions of rupiah back to her circle.

Don't Panic Buy! Pertamina Assures Indonesia's Fuel Stocks Are Safe and Under Control

Pertamina Patra Niaga says Indonesia's BBM stocks are around 21 days, managed within the national energy logistics system, and are continually topped up from domestic and imported sources. It urges the public to remain calm and avoid panic buying, while outlining measures to diversify supply and strengthen logistics amid global geopolitical tensions.

BYD Launches Blade Battery 2.0, Electric Car Charging in Minutes

BYD has unveiled Blade Battery 2.0, boosting energy density and slashing charging times even in very cold weather. Tests show charging from 20% to 97% takes 12 minutes at -20°C and -30°C, only three minutes longer than at room temperature; the system also shows 30–50% faster charging at standard chargers compared with conventional EV batteries.

Iran Prepares a 'Great Disaster' for the US if It Dares a Ground Invasion

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says Tehran is not afraid of a possible US ground invasion and has prepared a 'great disaster' for Washington if it presses ahead. He denies calls for a ceasefire and condemns the US-Israel attack on a Minab primary school that killed 171 children, blaming both militaries for civilian harm.

To Make Money Easier: The Top 5 Crypto Trading Apps for 2026

As 2026 begins, the crypto market shifts from pure speculation to a Digital Maturity phase. With Bitcoin potentially surpassing $100,000 and targets up to $200,000 if spot ETFs expand to global pension funds, Indonesian investors are eyeing crypto apps carefully to act swiftly and efficiently. The article surveys five widely used platforms, detailing Pluang, Coinbase, Nanovest, and Bybit, and highlights regulatory notes and risks.

Russian Elderly Man Dragged Out to Sea by Currents While Surfing at Lebih Beach, Gianyar

A 64-year-old Russian national, Iurii Orlov, was rescued from the sea at Lebih Beach, Lebih Village, Gianyar after apparently being swept away by a current while surfing. He sustained only minor injuries and received initial medical treatment, with authorities warning beachgoers to monitor weather and currents for safety and coordinating follow-up care with local hotels.

Danantara appoints Wangneng Environment Co., Ltd. and Zhejiang Weiming Environment Protection Co., Ltd. to manage Bekasi-Denpasar Waste-to-Energy facilities

Danantara Indonesia has named two international operators for its Waste-to-Energy facilities in Bekasi and Denpasar: Wangneng Environment Co., Ltd. will run the Bekasi plant, while Zhejiang Weiming Environment Protection Co., Ltd. will oversee the Denpasar facility. The move supports the government’s WtE/PSEL programme under Presidential Regulation No. 109 of 2025, emphasising governance, technology transfer, and community engagement to reduce waste and advance clean energy.

These are the People's School facilities in North Maluku

The North Maluku Provincial Government is building Sekolah Rakyat, a boarding school complex for primary to senior secondary levels, in two locations to widen access for low-income families in the archipelago. The project will feature extensive facilities, including dormitories, staff housing, sports facilities, a mosque, labs, libraries, and a digital learning centre, with a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. Construction is targeted to be completed in time for the 2026/2027 academic year, with current work at structural lower stages and Governor Sherly Tjoanda urging timely completion and safety.

Moments as Kim Jong Un Fires a Missile from a Warship, Is He Helping Iran?

Kim Jong Un inspected the 5,000-ton Cheo Hyon‑Class destroyer and oversaw a test firing of a strategic cruise missile during a visit to Nampho Shipyard, with footage broadcast by KCNA via Reuters. He also outlined plans to build at least two surface combatants each year under a five‑year defence plan, amid ongoing tensions involving the US and Israel over Iran. The report underlines Pyongyang’s advances in naval weapons programmes and its rhetoric amid broader regional strains.

PayLater and Digital Financial Services Drive Responsible Transactions

Indodana Finance's PayLater services have expanded to over 180 cities and regencies, accompanied by a push for financial education and robust risk governance. Mira Wibowo, CEO, accepts the Indonesia Best CEO 2025 award and emphasises that expansion should prioritise the quality of impact and the responsible use of digital financial services, while the firm strengthens technology infrastructure to support sustainable financial inclusion.

Kakorlantas of the era backs 'Mudik Safe, Happy Family', urges travellers to observe rules

Kakorlantas Polri (Traffic Police) endorsed the smooth operation of the 2026 Lebaran mudik programme, Mudik Aman, Keluarga Bahagia, emphasising three key precautions for motorists: obeying traffic rules and taking directions from on-site officers, ensuring the driver is physically fit, and ensuring the vehicle is in roadworthy condition. The piece also details the formation of the Ikabhalantas network to strengthen cross-generational ties within the Traffic Corps in honour of past Kakorlantas.

Airlangga to Complete Formation of the National Council for Financial Well-being Soon, Here Is Its Purpose

The Indonesian government plans to accelerate financial inclusion policies by forming the National Council for Financial Well-being to complement the Council for Inclusive Finance and to build financial security and trust through improved literacy, planning, and protection from digital fraud.

UII Rector: Zakat Is Very Important and Must Remain Popular in Indonesia

UII Rector Fathul Wahid emphasises zakat is a crucial obligation for Muslims and should be actively promoted in Indonesia, amid debate over zakat and the MBG programme. He notes MBG does not fall within the eight asnaf. The article also recalls the Minister of Religion Nasaruddin Umar's apology and calls for a broader optimisation of Islamic social funds, citing professional wakaf management in several Arab states.

Sharing Warmth During Ramadan, LRT Jabodebek Prepares 3,150 takjil Packages for Passengers

LRT Jabodebek is running a Ramadan takjil distribution programme for customers still travelling or at stations before iftar, across 14 busy stations from 5 to 13 March 2026. The initiative aims to enhance comfort and strengthen the bond between public transport users and the community.

With the Social Affairs Minister and Aceh's Deputy Governor, Tito Karnavian's PRR Task Force Inspects Temporary Shelters in Pidie Jaya Regency

Tito Karnavian, the Minister of Home Affairs and head of the PRR Task Force, together with Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf and Aceh’s Deputy Governor, inspected temporary shelters in Pidie Jaya, Aceh. He outlined four types of huntara, noted differences in facilities, and said refugees would be moved to more durable housing under the DTH scheme before Eid al-Fitr 1447 AH, with BNPB covering meals for 10 days. The visit underscored government efforts to accelerate rehabilitation and ensure adequate housing for evacuees.

Jokowi Reveals Contents of Prabowo Meeting: BoP and US Tariffs

Jokowi says Prabowo updated on joining the BoP and a US–Indonesia tariff agreement, noting 0% tariffs on around 1,800 Indonesian items and a large US trade surplus; he praises the interactive forum of presidents and ministers.

Indonesia's proactive diplomacy to curb Middle East conflict escalation

Indonesia pursues proactive diplomacy as tensions rise in the Middle East following a US-Israel strike on Iran on 28 February 2026. President Prabowo Subianto emphasises Indonesia's readiness to help de-escalate and return all parties to negotiations, amid potential impacts on energy prices and global trade. The move aligns with Indonesia's free and active foreign policy, stressing dialogue and international cooperation to maintain regional and global stability.

BRIN researcher proposes expanding egg provisions in MBG during Ramadan

Prof Fitrah Ernawati of BRIN urges increasing eggs in the Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) programme during Ramadan, arguing that eggs offer a cheap, practical source of animal protein amid concerns over the balance of current MBG menus. The government says MBG will continue throughout Ramadan with regional distribution adjustments, while authorities and the BGN emphasise improving menu quality, packaging and transparency.

Three Tropical Cyclone Seeds Active, BMKG Warns of Potential Extreme Weather Over the Coming Week

BMKG cautions of potential extreme weather across Indonesia next week as three tropical cyclone seeds in the south become active, likely bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds. The forecast covers 6-12 March 2026, with warnings issued for multiple provinces and guidance on travel and safety.

Ministry of Transport Inspects 13,584 Buses Ahead of Lebaran Homecoming

Indonesia's Ministry of Transport has intensified safety inspections on 13,584 buses ahead of Lebaran 2026 mudik, with 63.9% cleared to operate, 20.9% given repair warnings, 12.1% prohibited, and 3.1% fined and prohibited. A free mudik programme is being opened to reduce motorcycle travel, offering quotas for bus, train, ship transport and for transporting motorcycles by trucks and rail. Authorities also plan work-from-anywhere days on peak movement dates and joint regulatory measures to ease flow, including traffic controls such as one-way, contra-flow and odd-even at crossings to ensure safe, orderly Lebaran travel.

KPK probes collaboration between S&P Law Office and PT Karabha Digdaya

The Indonesian Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is examining the collaboration between S&P Law Office and PT Karabha Digdaya, a subsidiary of the Ministry of Finance, as part of its investigation into alleged bribery of a judge at the Depok District Court. On 5 March 2026, investigators questioned S&P partners TES and JOMS; a February 2026 sting operation led to arrests of seven people, with five named as suspects in a case linked to a land dispute involving 6,500 square metres in Tapos. One suspect, Bambang Setyawan, faces gratification charges following data from PPATK about a Rp2.5 billion payment from PT Daha Mulia Valasindo.

BYD launches luxury Yangwang U7 sedan with a 1,006 km range

BYD's luxury Yangwang brand has unveiled the U7, a 2026 flagship sedan with a CLTC range of up to 1,006 km and flash charging capability. The line-up comprises five variants in BEV and PHEV configurations, priced from 658,000 yuan to 888,000 yuan (roughly Rp1.6–Rp2.1 billion). The car showcases advanced technology including Blade Battery second‑generation, e⁴ quad‑motor drive, rear‑wheel steering, and DiSus maglev suspension.

Cipayung Social Welfare Home reveals condition of baby found in South Jakarta

The PSAA Tunas Bangsa in Cipayung reported that Ameera Ramadhani, the baby found in a nasi uduk cart in Pasar Minggu, South Jakarta, is healthy and under observation. The baby arrived at the shelter with officials from South Jakarta's Social Service Office and Pasar Minggu's Public Order Agency, and will undergo further health checks at Puskesmas Cipayung.

Tilted electricity pole and dangling cables on Jalan Krapu, Pademangan, residents fear for motorists

Residents in Pademangan report a tilted electricity pole on Jalan Krapu with hanging cables over the road, raising safety concerns amid heavy container traffic. They say authorities have not repaired the pole, risking accidents unless it is addressed. The incident underlines ongoing infrastructure safety challenges in urban Jakarta.

THR Not Paid by the Company? Don't Stay Silent! Labour Minister Urges Reports Here

Labour Minister Yassierli inspected the THR and BHR Religious Holiday Benefits Post opened by the Ministry of Manpower to safeguard workers' rights ahead of Eid al-Fitr 1447 H. The post offers consultation and complaint services, with online access and a WhatsApp line, and promises prompt action on unpaid or underpaid THR. He urged employers to fulfil THR and BHR on time and to expand the post network nationwide.

Fintech Career Trends 2026: Great Opportunities for Technology and Business Graduates

Indonesia’s fintech sector is expanding rapidly and is forecast to be one of the most promising areas in the digital jobs market by 2026. The market could reach USD 11.6 billion by 2033, driven by electronic payments, digital lending, and mobile app-based financial solutions, creating numerous new roles. Cyber University offers a 3-year study plus 1-year internship pathway, including a full-year industry placement to build a portfolio and practical experience, positioning graduates for high-demand roles in data analytics, cybersecurity, development, and product strategy.

Head of the SPPG Unit in Lampung Arrested After Abusing a Primary School Pupil, How Is the MBG Service?

BGN's Deputy Head said the MBG nutrition programme in Lampung Timur continues normally after the arrest of the SPPG head over alleged abuse of a primary school pupil. The agency will review recruitment and oversight of SPPG staff and has appointed a temporary replacement; police have detained the suspect, identified as DD, 29, who allegedly assaulted the child in a paddy-field area.

329 Indonesian Citizens in Iran, 32 People to Be Evacuated Starting Today

The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs says 329 Indonesian nationals are in Iran, mostly students, with 32 to be evacuated in the first phase via Azerbaijan. Further evacuations will be decided by Indonesian authorities based on security conditions, coordinated by the Indonesian embassies in Tehran and Baku. Officials urged the public to monitor official MFA updates as the operation proceeds.

PT TASPEN Disburses Rp9.7 Trillion to Retirees 12 Days Before Eid al-Fitr

PT TASPEN (Persero) has disbursed Rp9.7 trillion in THR payments to 3.2 million pensioners, with 97% receiving it 12 days before Eid al-Fitr. The move, aided by digital systems like TasBoard, highlights efforts to accelerate disbursements and improve service quality for millions of retirees across Indonesia.

KPK to Summon Husband and Children of Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq Over Rp19 Billion Corruption Flows

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it will summon the husband and two children of Pekalongan’s suspended regent, Fadia Arafiq, as part of an inquiry into alleged misappropriation in outsourcing service procurement for the Pekalongan Regency for 2023–2026. The summons target the family members who also hold public office, with investigators focusing on alleged hot money flows to the family and their involvement with PT Raja Nusantara Berjaya (RNB). Initial findings indicate about Rp19 billion linked to the contracts, with most going to private use by the family; the probe could widen to others who benefited from the alleged wrongdoing.

New Chinese Electric Vehicle Battery Could Travel 1,000 Kilometres on a Single Charge

Chinese researchers from Nankai University claim a next-generation battery enabling more than 1,000 kilometres on a single charge, tested on a prototype vehicle and linked to CANEB under China FAW. If commercialised, the technology could represent a major leap for the electric-vehicle industry by delivering longer range with lighter packs, enabled by higher energy density and a hybrid solid–liquid electrolyte.

ABK Fandi Ramadhan Sentenced to Five Years’ Imprisonment, DPR Commission III: Judges Guided by the New Penal Code

The Batam District Court handed ABK Fandi Ramadhan a five-year prison sentence for smuggling two tonnes of methamphetamine. Lawmakers from DPR Commission III and other officials emphasised that the death penalty is not the default under the new KUHP and highlighted the ruling’s alignment with a substantive and rehabilitative justice approach, while vowing to oversee the handling of the case to protect rights.

Indonesia engages in dialogue with Iran to secure Pertamina tankers in the Strait of Hormuz

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry says it continues diplomatic engagement with Iran to safeguard two Pertamina tankers detained in the Strait of Hormuz amid tensions between Iran and the United States and Israel. The government is coordinating with Tehran via the Indonesian embassy to secure safe passage, while Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says negotiations to release the vessels are ongoing; Indonesia emphasises it does not threaten energy security and is exploring alternative energy sources.

Agung Sedayu Sells Rp 281.85 Billion CBDK Shares

Agung Sedayu disposed of CBDK shares in three tranches amounting to about Rp 281.85 billion, reducing its stake to 0.43% of voting rights. CBDK stock fell on the news, underscoring the impact of the divestment on market perception and liquidity.

Trump on a Land Invasion of Iran: A Waste of Time

US President Donald Trump says a ground invasion of Iran would be a waste of time and dismisses warnings from Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi that such a move would be disastrous for the attackers. He hints at removing Iran's leadership and pressing for a rapid 'clear-out', while Araghchi tells NBC that Iran is prepared to defend its sovereignty. The remarks come amid a broader confrontation following US-Israeli strikes and reported attacks on Tehran.

Nadiem Once Considered Procuring Windows When Chromebook Procurement Hit Snags

Nadiem Makarim, the former Minister of Education, Culture, Research and Technology, testifies in a Chromebook procurement corruption case and reveals he once considered using Windows devices when Chromebook supply problems arose. He discussed cross‑platform app deployment with Ibrahim Arief to ensure ministry software could run on Windows, Chrome OS, or other systems, to avoid delaying school laptops.

BGN fires free meals kitchen head over child abuse case in Lampung

BGN promptly discharged the SPPG leader after the arrest on suspicion of sexually abusing a nine-year-old student in January 2026, with Deputy Head Sudaryati Deyang emphasising zero tolerance and full cooperation with police investigations. The case has spurred a renewed push to tighten recruitment, mentoring, and supervision of on-field staff for the free meals programme to ensure integrity and safety. East Lampung's national priority programme has resumed after the leader's replacement, underscoring ongoing reforms in the operation of the programme nationwide.

GREAT Scholarship Opens Applications for Free Master’s Studies in the United Kingdom

The GREAT Scholarship, run by the UK Government and the British Council, has begun accepting applications for funded Master’s study in the United Kingdom for 2026. Indonesian nationals are among eligible applicants; scholars receive £10,000 for one academic year, with 12 UK universities participating, including Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen. Deadlines are 21 July 2026 for applications and 7 August 2026 for confirmation letters.

Bank Mega distributes 15,000 basic food packages to communities ahead of Eid al-Fitr

Bank Mega Tbk distributed nearly 15,000 basic food packages across its nationwide branch network and head office as part of Mega Berbagi 2026, funded by donations from the Mega Berbagi Savings product. The programme rests on three pillars—education, health, and community empowerment and disaster management—and aims to ease Eid al-Fitr preparations while reinforcing the bank's social commitments.

IDX Revokes HSBC Sekuritas Indonesia's Exchange Membership

The Indonesia Stock Exchange has revoked the exchange membership of PT HSBC Sekuritas Indonesia following a suspension and at the company’s request to halt trading. The suspension began on 15 January 2026 and HSBC Sekuritas Indonesia is barred from trading on the Exchange until further notice. A prior suspension in 2014, lifted in 2015 after meeting required standards, is noted.

Bekasi Husband Rammed Wife's Mugger from Behind; Suspect Falls

A three-man mugging attempt against a woman in Bekasi was foiled when her husband rammed one of the attackers with his motorcycle. One assailant collapsed and could not move; the other two fled, and police are pursuing them. A suspect was later handed over to authorities, and a video of the incident circulating online shows bystanders dealing with the attacker.

Coordinating Minister AHY mobilises cross-ministry effort to tackle water issues for WWF-11

AHY stressed that no single ministry can handle water issues alone and announced a national cross-ministerial team to prepare Indonesia's contribution to WWF-11. The team aims to harmonise water policies and programmes for a more integrated approach, with six main themes yet to be detailed. The themes are intended to reflect Indonesia's real water-management challenges and opportunities for global collaboration in Riyadh 2027.

Pilkada Debates and Welfare Feature in 20 Regional Recommendations to the Minister of Home Affairs

Indonesia's Association of Regional Governments (Apkasi) handed 20 recommendations from Rakernas XVII to the Minister of Home Affairs, covering issues from TKD transfers and salary costs for P3K staff to the idea of Pilkada via the DPRD and broader governance. The move highlights central–local trust and a push for reform of financing, governance and welfare to support nationwide economic equity.

Government Urged to Mitigate Potential Prolonged Drought in 2026

Sudjatmiko, a member of the DPR's Commission V, has urged the government to mitigate a drought forecast to arrive earlier and last longer in 2026, warning against delayed reaction as impacts could be severe. He calls for BMKG data to guide ministries and regional authorities and for proactive measures including expanded reforestation, more reservoirs, and increased groundwater recharge wells, plus pre-emptive clean-water distribution in drought-prone areas. BMKG forecasts indicate the 2026 dry season will begin earlier and persist longer across many regions, with substantial portions of the country entering drought in April–June 2026 and about 57% of zones experiencing longer-than-normal dryness.

Foreign Ministry lobbies Iran to allow two Pertamina tanker ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz

The Indonesian Foreign Ministry is coordinating via its Tehran embassy to secure safe passage and protection for two Pertamina tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, amid tensions in the area. Diplomacy continues as Iran's security situation remains unstable and global actors engage in retaliatory actions following US-Israel strikes.

PGE Commences Drilling for Lumut Balai Unit 3 Geothermal Power Plant Project

Pertamina Geothermal Energy has begun on-site preparations for the Lumut Balai Unit 3 geothermal project in South Sumatra, including infrastructure works and mobilisation of crews ahead of drilling in Q2 2026. The contract-signing marks a transition from planning to execution, with the project aligning to Indonesia's RUPTL 2025–2034 and Blue Book 2025–2029. PGE aims to boost national geothermal capacity, with Lumut Balai Unit 3 among several ongoing initiatives.

Taspen's Independent Commissioner Inspects THR Handover in Makassar

Ariawan personally monitored the THR distribution by Taspen's payment partners in Makassar, part of a nationwide rollout with 45 partners. The Eid al-Fitr allowance (THR) is distributed with no deductions beyond income tax, and is supported by partner services for retirees, including free health checks and MSME assistance, plus staple food packages.

Government speeds up upgrade of Tafaeri Regional General Hospital in North Nias to expand services

The Ministry of Health and the North Nias Regency Government are accelerating the upgrade of Tafaeri Regional General Hospital (RSUD Tafaeri) and road infrastructure to widen public health services as part of the president's fast-track results programme (PHTC). The project is 90% complete and targeted for completion in March with high quality. Authorities plan to recruit and base more specialist doctors locally to raise service quality.

Bandung's Special Committee 12 Prepares New Local Regulation on Social Welfare

Bandung's Special Committee 12 is facilitating a Draft Local Regulation on the administration and handling of social welfare to the West Java Provincial Government, which will be a new law rather than a revision. The changes exceed 50% of the original act, driven by new central regulations including Permensos, and will tighten oversight of Social Welfare Institutions (LKS), governing the collection of money and goods (PUB) and free prize draws (UGB). After a study visit to Jakarta, including the Ministry of Social Affairs, the committee agreed to repeal the old regulation before enacting the new one, with approval anticipated at a provincial plenary within about a month, pending provincial notes.

War Disrupts Travel as Daniil Medvedev Undertakes a Seven-Hour Road Trip to Oman to Play at Indian Wells

Daniil Medvedev, fresh from winning the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, faced an extraordinary journey to reach the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells after air routes from Dubai were closed due to Middle East tensions. He and fellow Russians Andrey Rublev and Karen Khachanov drove to Oman, enduring a passport hiccup before continuing via Istanbul to Los Angeles, as Medvedev prepares to meet Alejandro Tabilo in the second round; Rublev and Khachanov also have second-round opponents.

Malaysia Quietly Eyes How Indonesia Could Implement Biodiesel Up to B40

Malaysia is watching how Indonesia implemented the mandatory B40 biodiesel programme, which has made it the country with the world's highest biodiesel blend. The policy, in force since January 2025, has attracted interest from Malaysian observers seeking to understand its feasibility and implementation, while Indonesian officials caution against rushing higher blends due to potential technical issues, especially for commercial diesel vehicles operating outside urban areas.

Patients in North Nias Willing to Travel Dozens of Kilometres to See a Specialist Doctor

Residents of North Nias travel around 30 kilometres to RSUD Tafaeri to access specialist care, highlighting ongoing gaps in health service access in island communities. The hospital faces infrastructure challenges, including damaged road sections and limited equipment, while BPJS Kesehatan processes are reportedly straightforward. The facility is slated to upgrade from Type D to Type C, with calls for more specialist doctors to improve care, especially for chronic diseases.

No Shortages in LPG and Fuel Stocks in Sleman Ahead of Eid al-Fitr 1447 AH

The Sleman Regency government steps up monitoring to ensure adequate LPG and fuel supplies ahead of Eid al-Fitr 1447 AH, including quotas, price controls, and consumer protection measures. Local authorities coordinate with Pertamina and other agencies to avert shortages during Ramadan holidays while protecting consumers at depots and service points.

Speedboat Breaks Up After Being Struck by Waves in Banyuasin, 1 Passenger Dies

A passenger speedboat on the Muara Telang waterway broke up and sank after a large wave, leaving one passenger dead. Officials say data on victims and the chronology are still being compiled as authorities recover the wreck and review waterway safety.

Blambangan Express Train Struck by Truck in Probolinggo

The Blambangan Ekspres train (Surabaya Pasar Turi – Ketapang) was hit by a truck at a level crossing in Probolinggo, East Java. The incident damaged the locomotive, but no fatalities were reported, with passengers reallocated to another service and safety measures emphasised as authorities investigate.

Education Minister Takes Concrete Steps to Create Safe and Comfortable Schools

Indonesia’s Education Ministry has announced concrete steps to promote student mental health and safe learning environments, including new Permendikdasmen No. 6 of 2026 on Safe and Comfortable School Culture and Ministerial Decree No. 17 of 2026. It also includes enhanced human resource management, a broader duty for mental health support beyond guidance counsellors, improved monitoring via the Education Report Card (Rapor Pendidikan), and digitisation of case reports, alongside character-building and health-focused programmes such as the Seven Habits Movement for Great Indonesian Children and Healthy School.

South Jakarta Parekraf Organises 'Ramadan Journey' to Introduce Historic Mosques

South Jakarta's Tourism and Creative Economy Office organised a Ramadan-themed tour to showcase South Jakarta's destinations and historic mosques. The event, part of a collaboration with the SANA Kenal Kota community, will host around 40 participants and includes visits to mosques such as Al Huriyyah, Al Kautsar, and Al Karomah, with some bus transport and a buka puasa dinner and networking session. The programme aims to raise awareness of South Jakarta's tourism potential and promote regional promotion through media and community engagement.

KPK Raids Pekalongan Regent's Office of Fadia Arafiq, Seals Four Rooms

Investigators from the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) conducted a search at the Pekalongan Regency Government complex in Central Java, sealing four rooms including the regent's office. The operation began around 11:00 local time, with the team moving to the second floor where the non-active regent Fadia Arafiq's office is located. Pekalongan's Regional Secretary, M Yulian Akbar, confirmed that four rooms were sealed as part of the investigation.

War Between Iran and Israel–the US, Dharma Jaya Anticipates Soaring Imported Meat Prices

Beef imports still dominate Jakarta's meat supply, with about 95% of Indonesia's beef needs met by imports, not Jakarta alone. Geopolitical tensions risk pushing up prices as imports are transacted in US dollars, with the Strait of Hormuz disrupting supply flows. Dharma Jaya is partnering with local cattle farms in Java and Lampung to build stock buffers and shield consumers from potential price spikes.

Coalition Urges Government to Immediately Lift Wikipedia Login Block

A coalition of 83 civil society organisations has urged the Indonesian government to lift the login block on Wikipedia, arguing that it cripples thousands of contributors and undermines the open knowledge platform. They accuse PM 5/2020 and PM 10/2021 of enabling digital censorship, while regulators say the block targets the Wikimedia login domain for failing to register as a Private Electronic System Operator (PSE Lingkup Privat).

PPPK challenge the ASN Law at the Constitutional Court for not wanting to be a 'second-class civil servant'

PPPKs, represented by Forum Aspirasi Intelektual Nusantara (FAIN), petition the Constitutional Court to reinterpret UU ASN to give PPPKs equal access to managerial and non-managerial posts and equivalent pension rights with PNS. They argue Articles 34(1), 34(2) and 52(3)(c) create constitutional discrimination by privileging PNS and by making PPPK career paths uncertain. The hearing in Jakarta proceeded with judges urging further elaboration of the causal links and losses suffered.

Indonesian Armed Forces Join Efforts to Free Four Indonesian Nationals Kidnapped in Gabon Waters, Africa

The Indonesian National Armed Forces assisted in freeing four Indonesian crew members kidnapped in the waters off Gabon, Central Africa. Negotiations with the pirates, supported by Indonesia’s Defence Attaché in Abuja and other parties, culminated in the release on 5 March 2026, with the victims later evacuated to Lagos for health checks. The operation involved multiple agencies, including the Indonesian Embassy in Abuja, the Chinese Embassy in Gabon, IB Fish, and the Chinese community in Lagos.

President appoints Minister Bahlil Lahadalia as Chair of the Energy Transition Task Force

The Indonesian government has formed an Energy Transition Acceleration Task Force led by Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia to accelerate clean and renewable energy adoption, including solar PV projects and the electrification of transport, aiming to cut electricity subsidies. The plan includes a 100 GW solar PV program for schools and villages and a rapid shift from diesel to solar, with the conversion of up to 120 million motorcycles to electric versions within 3–4 years.

Yellowing skin: Baby abandoned by an older sister in a nasi uduk cart fed milk every hour

A baby girl named AR, found abandoned in a shopping bag inside a nasi uduk cart in Pasar Minggu, South Jakarta, is now in intensive care at PSAA Tunas Bangsa in Cipayung. She is being fed Infantrini every hour to bolster her health, while authorities coordinate with local health services for ongoing checks; a note left with the baby reveals her family situation.

Ford Experience Centre in Sunter Offers Personalisation Services

Ford RMA Indonesia has launched the Ford Experience Centre in Sunter, North Jakarta, combining product education, community engagement and vehicle personalisation. The centre comprises three zones—Showroom & Bespoke, a Café & Lounge, and a collaboration space with technology partners—plus on-site vehicle customisation. The move aligns with Ford’s 2026 strategy to broaden its service network, with expansion plans including new Jakarta dealers and additional service points across Sumatra, Kalimantan, Sulawesi and Papua.

MPR Leader Urges UMJ Academic Community to Strengthen Faith, Knowledge and Deeds

Vice Chairman Hidayat Nur Wahid urged the Muhammadiyah University Jakarta's academic community to strengthen the synergy of faith, knowledge and deeds as a foundation for excellence and humanity. He described Ramadan as a chance to unite spiritual, intellectual and social dimensions by translating Qur'anic values into tangible action, while highlighting Muhammadiyah's historic commitments and the role of education in balancing iman, taqwa and akhlak under the 1945 Constitution.

Iran Rejects Negotiations with the US, Ready to Face Ground Invasion

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says Tehran will not seek a ceasefire or negotiate with the United States, as tensions escalate following US-Israeli strikes. He warns Iran is fully prepared for a possible ground invasion, while Tehran claims to have targeted a US aircraft carrier with drones amid a broader regional confrontation.

Funding for U.S. Advanced Weapons Suppliers Cut Off: Here's Why

OpenAI and Anthropic have recently been thrust into the global spotlight amid tensions over US-Israeli military actions against Iran. The report also highlights funding and potential IPO plans involving OpenAI, Anthropic, and Nvidia, with concerns over the role of major investors and the impact on AI firms' strategies.

Indonesian Navy Rescues Four Indonesian Nationals Abducted by Gabonese Pirates for Two Months

The Indonesian Navy, acting through its Abuja Defence Attaché, has freed four Indonesian crew members who were abducted by pirates off Gabon after prolonged negotiations. The release occurred on 5 March 2026, with the crew arriving in Lagos on 6 March; they are undergoing medical checks. The operation involved cross-agency coordination including Indonesian and Chinese representations, following reports that nine of IB FISH 7's twelve crew were kidnapped.

Collaboration with Ellyhan Jewelry, Hotel Ciputra Jakarta Introduces D.I.Y Corner for Personalised Bracelets

Hotel Ciputra Jakarta has partnered with Ellyhan Jewelry to launch a D.I.Y Corner where guests can personalise bracelets, including a Ramadan tasbih offer. The initiative includes an opening promo: first five charms free with each bracelet, and a special tasbih price of Rp375,000 during Ramadan. The project highlights support for local Indonesian SMEs and strengthens the hotel’s commitment to unique guest experiences.

Nusron: Prabowo Still Seeks to Pursue Peace Through the Board of Peace

The Indonesian government maintains its stance to pursue peace through the Board of Peace (BoP) despite calls for withdrawal. Nusron Wahid says President Prabowo intends to continue engaging via the BoP, emphasising diplomacy over war, and Indonesia remains joined to the BoP as the sole negotiation forum for Palestine and Gaza.

OJK continues to monitor DSI's planned RUPD to ensure lenders' funds are repaid

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) is closely overseeing the planned General Meeting of Lenders (RUPD) at PT Dana Syariah Indonesia (DSI) to ensure the company fulfils its obligation to return lenders' funds. The regulator is coordinating with police investigators over alleged fraud at DSI and is enhancing governance and anti-fraud measures across microfinance institutions. It also notes a wave of license revocations for several LKM in 2025 and urges stronger capital structures and prudent funding.

BRIN develops palm oil waste into Inacell, an environmentally friendly material

BRIN has developed Inacell, a microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) product derived from palm oil waste, achieving cellulose content up to 65.21% with lignin around 1%. The innovation aims to reduce waste, boost domestic self-sufficiency, and enable MCC's use across pharmaceuticals, foods, and cosmetics.

Money in Circulation in February 2026 Reaches Rp 2,227 Trillion

Bank Indonesia reported that the monetary base, adjusted M0, rose to Rp 2,227.70 trillion in February 2026, up 18.3% year-on-year. The increase was driven by a 33.6% rise in commercial banks’ demand deposits with the BI-adjusted measure and a 15.8% rise in currency in circulation, underscoring liquidity policy measures and incentives. The monetary base underpins money creation in the economy.

Latest Developments in the Arab War: Heavy Strike Hits Tehran

Heavy bombardment was reported in Tehran on 6 March 2026 as Israel claimed to have struck 'the regime's infrastructure' in a new phase of a US-Israel campaign against Iran. The conflict has entered its seventh day, with spillover effects reaching Gulf states hosting US bases, such as Qatar, and Lebanon where Iran's Hizbullah proxies are active. Iran's IRGC says it fired missiles toward Tel Aviv after earlier blasts, while senior officials warned of intensified strikes ahead.

Indonesian National Armed Forces free four Indonesian sailors kidnapped off Gabon coast

After a lengthy negotiation with pirates, the TNI freed four Indonesian sailors abducted off Gabon. The operation culminated on 5 March, with the four men arriving in Lagos for medical checks; nine hostages were freed in total. The effort involved multiple parties, including Indonesian defence attachés, the Indonesian Embassy in Abuja, and Chinese authorities and representatives in Lagos.

Owner of Bibi Kelinci in Kemang Named a Suspect, Expert Warns Against Shielding Unpaid Dining Behaviour

Criminal-law lecturer Azmi Syahputra criticises the decision to name Nabilah O’Brien, owner of Bibi Kelinci Kemang, as a suspect in a defamation case after she posted CCTV footage of youths who did not pay a Rp530,150 bill. He argues the move reflects an anomaly in enforcement and urges prosecutors to heed the spirit of the new KUHP, especially Article 70(1)(h). He warns the case could set a dangerous precedent where victims are punished for reporting crime.

Influencer named as a suspect for discussing theft case on social media

Indonesian social media influencer Nabilah O’Brien says she was named a suspect by police after discussing a theft case online, despite claiming to be the victim. She says she was pressured to retract her statements and was allegedly asked for Rp1 billion; she appeals to the DPR's Commission III and the police chief for justice. The report also recounts an incident in which a husband-and-wife duo allegedly stole 14 items from her Kemang restaurant and were reported to police.

Bareskrim Breakthrough: Rp 58.1 Billion from Online Gambling Case Now in State Treasury

Indonesia's Directorate of Cyber Crime (Dittipidsiber) of the National Police handed over Rp 58.183.165.803 — from 133 bank accounts linked to a money-laundering case tied to online gambling — to the Attorney General's Office for execution, under Supreme Court Regulation No. 1/2013. The move is hailed by PPATK as a legal breakthrough using Perma 1/2013 to treat illicit assets as state property and bypass difficulties in identifying the actual perpetrators due to the use of third-party accounts.

7 Examples of Nuzulul Quran Event Arrangements in Mosques That Are Devout and Islamic

The article lays out seven sample schedules for Nuzulul Quran events in mosques for 1447 AH/2026, detailing typical activities from opening to closing and including options such as Khataman Al-Quran, Pengajian Akbar, and door prizes. It also provides example MC texts for guidance.

Free Cat Sterilisation in Jakarta in March 2026: How to Register

Jakarta's DKI Jakarta Provincial Office of Food Security, Maritime Affairs and Agriculture is offering free sterilisation for local male cats throughout March 2026, alongside free rabies vaccination for registered cats. Registration is done online via the KPKP form, after which officials will schedule the procedure; for more information contact drh. Evy Alfiani at 0813-9891-9145. The initiative aims to curb the stray cat population and prevent rabies while promoting humane pet ownership.

Many smartphones now come with NFC; how important is it?

NFC is widely available on modern smartphones and enables secure access, quick data sharing, and digital identification. The article explains how NFC works and outlines its active and passive operating modes. This highlights its practical importance for everyday use.

Home Affairs Minister targets zero refugees in tents ahead of Eid al-Fitr

The Indonesian Minister of Home Affairs, who chairs the disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction task force for Sumatra, aims to move all refugees from tents to more suitable housing before Eid al-Fitr (1447 AH). He urges rapid relocation to temporary housing (huntara) or via the Housing Waiting Fund (DTH) scheme, and stresses that coordination between ministries and local governments is crucial to accelerate housing solutions for disaster-affected communities.

Israel Continues Bombarding Lebanon, 123 Dead

Lebanon's Ministry of Public Health said at least 123 people have been killed and hundreds more wounded by Israeli strikes on Lebanon, which it says targeted the Iran-backed Hizbullah. The violence follows Hizbullah's attack on Israel in retaliation for the death of Iran's top leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, amid US-Israeli strikes. Humanitarian groups warn of the deteriorating civilian risk and urge de-escalation and a return to diplomatic dialogue.

Global energy turmoil and the urgency of Indonesia's energy resilience

The article warns that global energy shocks, sparked by Middle East conflict and the Strait of Hormuz, could raise Indonesia's energy import bills and widen the fiscal gap due to subsidies. It contends that Indonesia should pursue consistent strategic measures to fortify energy security and leverage the energy transition as a future growth engine.

JCI session 1 down 2.61%, foreign net sell Rp83.8 billion

In early trading, the Jakarta Composite Index fell 2.61% in the opening session, weighed by heavyweight banks and energy stocks, with foreigners posting a net sell of Rp83.8 billion as oil prices surged amid rising Middle East tensions. Asian markets were mixed as investors weighed global risk sentiment and domestic policy considerations.

Casualties in Ten-Vehicle Pile-Up at KM 93 on Cipularang Toll Road

Two people were killed and four others were seriously injured in a ten-vehicle pile-up on the Cipularang Toll Road at KM 93, Jakarta-bound. A total of ten vehicles were involved, with six others sustaining minor injuries. Victims were evacuated to Abdul Rozak Hospital as authorities cleared debris and recoveries, while the cause remains under investigation.

BGN Fires SPPG Chief Over Alleged Case of Child Sexual Abuse

BGN dismissed the Head of the Nutrition Service Unit (SPPG) in Tanjung Kesuma, Lampung Timur, following an alleged case of child sexual abuse, emphasising zero tolerance for violence against children and pledging support for the legal process. The agency will review recruitment and oversight practices while MBG operations continue in Lampung Timur, and the KPK is examining potential procurement irregularities in the MBG programme.

Volvo EM90, Zeekr 009 Lookalike, Could Enter Indonesia

Volvo's EM90, a lookalike of Zeekr 009 built on Geely's SEA platform, has been discussed as a potential entry to Indonesia, though Volvo Cars Indonesia has not confirmed any plan. Globally unveiled in China in 2023, the EM90 features a six-seat layout, a 21-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system, and a 200 kW rear-mounted motor with a 116 kWh battery offering up to 738 km CLTC range; production is now under way at Hangzhou Bay, with domestic marketing plans still unannounced.

Indonesian Shipping Company Plans Jumbo Rights Issue

PT Pelayaran Nasional Ekalya Purnamasari Tbk (ELPI) plans a large rights issue to bolster funding. The company intends to issue up to 2,112,420,000 new shares at Rp100 each, representing up to 22.18% of its issued and paid-up capital. The plan requires an Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders on 9 March 2026, after which a registration statement will be filed with the OJK; proceeds will be used for liquidity, capital expenditure, and working capital, including diversification, expansion, and investment.

Four Indonesian nationals kidnapped off Gabon waters freed

Nine people were released from the vessel, including four Indonesian nationals Abdul Ajis, Aditia Permana, Mohamad Fardan Mubarok, and Eka Trenggana. The freed Indonesians have arrived in Lagos for medical checks. The release followed lengthy negotiations and was achieved through coordinated efforts among Indonesian authorities in Abuja, the Indonesian Embassy in Abuja, the Chinese Embassy in Gabon, IB Fish, Athan China in Abuja, and the Chinese Community in Lagos.

KPK to summon the husband and child of Fadia Arafiq who received corruption money

The Indonesian anti-graft agency KPK will summon the husband and child of Pekalongan regency’s former chief Fadia Arafiq, who were previously named in the flow of funds linked to a corruption case. The summons relate to alleged money flows and the management of PT Raja Nusantara Berjaya, with Fadia Arafiq named as a suspect in outsourcing and other procurements for Pekalongan Regency in 2023-2026, involving around Rp19 billion.

Ministry of Environment and Forestry: Viral video of an elephant calf stuck in mud did not occur in Indonesia

The Ministry confirms that a viral video showing an elephant calf trapped in a plantation was not filmed in Indonesia, but suspected to have originated in Sabah, Malaysia. The species identified is the Borneo elephant, a protected Asian elephant subspecies endemic to Kalimantan, and authorities urge the public to report conservation crimes through BKSDA or Balai Gakkum, or online.

Port Police Chief Denies Subordinates Requesting THR from Companies in Tanjung Priok

An official letter bearing the Port of Tanjung Priok Police letterhead requesting companies to provide a holiday allowance (THR) circulated on social media. Port Police Chief AKBP Aris Wibowo says the letter was not issued by the force, and the Port Police of Tanjung Priok never issued any THR request. Aptrindo has issued a clarification to prevent any harm to businesses, following police coordination.

Free Motorcycle Homecoming 2026 Opened: Here Are the Schedules, Routes and Requirements

Indonesia's Ministry of Transport reopens the Free Motorcycle Homecoming (Motis) programme for Lebaran 2026. The initiative, run by the Directorate General of Rail Transport (DJKA), provides two free tickets per motorcycle and adds an additional southern route to the usual northern and central corridors, with dispatch points concentrated at Stasiun Jakarta Gudang. A survey projects 24.08 million motorcyclists will travel for Lebaran 2026, underscoring the policy's aim to offer safer, cost-free travel options.

Baznas distributes over 50 thousand iftar meals to people in need

Baznas claims more than 50,000 iftar meal packages were distributed to mustahik across Greater Jakarta using mobile kitchen vehicles and in Sumatra via public kitchens in disaster-affected areas in North Sumatra, West Sumatra, and Aceh, as part of Ramadan Blessing Meals. The program, among Baznas' 29 flagship initiatives, aims to meet the nutritional needs of those fasting and ease their burden, with thanks extended to muzaki contributing alms through Baznas. Additionally, Baznas provided free motorcycle servicing for 5,000 Eid travelers and involved 300 MSMEs under its Z-Auto Program to support the holiday period.

Truck driver in deadly Cipularang Toll Road crash named a suspect

Police have named Muhamad Yahya, 27, the container truck driver, as a suspect in a multi-vehicle crash on the Cipularang Toll Road near Purwakarta that killed three people. Investigations, including witness statements and CCTV analysis, identified three main factors behind the crash, with a possibility of further questioning of the company if involved. The death toll rose to three, with one seriously injured and five with minor injuries.

KPK: Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq Has Full Control Over PT Raja Nusantara Berjaya, Including Distribution of Funds

Jakarta's KPK says Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq has full control over PT Raja Nusantara Berjaya (RNB) and oversees money flows, including distributing funds to relatives and trusted associates. The agency plans to summon her husband and son as part of the probe into outsourcing procurement within the Pekalongan Regency government. Fadia Arafiq has been named a suspect; RNB dominated outsourcing contracts in 2025, with Rp46 billion in contracts from 2023–2026 and Rp22 billion used to pay outsourcing staff salaries.

Netflix abandons Warner Bros. acquisition, still pockets US$2.8 billion

Netflix has scrapped its plan to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery's studio and streaming business after the bid price rose in a competitive auction with Paramount Skydance; it will nonetheless receive a US$2.8 billion breakup fee and continues to invest in content as it seeks growth opportunities.

Iran denies launching drone strike on Azerbaijan

Iran denies launching a drone strike into Azerbaijan and suggests Israel may be behind the attack; Azerbaijan condemns the incident and says it struck the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic from Iranian territory, with casualties and damage reported. The episode heightens regional tensions amid broader cross-border hostilities involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.

Video: Escalating Iranian War Effects, Stock Market and Indonesia's State Budget at Risk

The Iran–US war is described as a negative global economic sentiment that could affect Indonesia through higher oil prices, energy subsidies, a weaker rupiah, and a widening fiscal deficit. Q1 2026 may be buoyed by Ramadan and Eid consumption, but subsequent quarters face headwinds as markets react to Middle East tensions.

Expand Public Communication Access, Komdigi Empowers BNPT's Peace Ambassadors

The Ministry of Communications and Digital (Komdigi) is expanding public information reach by empowering Peace Ambassadors as Public Information Officers (PIP), with a 2026 SAPA training in Yogyakarta drawing 283 ambassadors from 19 provinces. The event also formalised a cooperation agreement with BNPT to bolster public communication, alongside cross-ministerial collaborations to disseminate national priority programs and safeguard children online under the PP Tunas policy.

DJP Overhauls 0.5% Final Income Tax Rate for UMKM

Indonesia's tax authority says it has not completed revising Presidential Regulation No. 55/2022, governing the 0.5% final income tax for UMKM. The revision, expected to take effect in 2026, has been delayed due to administrative procedures and awaits review by the Finance Minister and presidential signature; officials say the regime remains in place while the process continues.

Stockbit and Bibit Drive Digital Investment

Stockbit's February 2026 transactions reached Rp107 trillion, up around 600% year-on-year, underscoring rapid adoption of digital stock trading. Bibit posted a strong 2025 with over two million downloads and about 1.7 million active portfolios, earning industry awards for innovation and inclusion. Both firms highlighted talent development and a culture of ownership as they extend financial inclusion in Indonesia's digital investment ecosystem.

Behind Street-Side Money Changers Ahead of Lebaran: Slim Profits, High Risks

Informal money exchangers along Jalan Asemka operate ahead of Lebaran, dealing in new Rp notes with a typical 15% cut paid to a 'boss'. The business is depicted as high-risk and low-margin, relying on a supply chain that coexists with Bank Indonesia controls and banks' competition. Demand centres on Rp 5,000 notes used for distribution during Lebaran, with some customers exchanging tens of millions of rupiah.

Immigration Detains Australian National Surf Coach Suspected of Illegally Training at Lakey Beach, Dompu

An Australian woman, 26-year-old SBH, has been detained by the Immigration Intelligence and Enforcement Team (Inteldakim) in Bima, West Nusa Tenggara, on suspicion of entering and staying in Indonesia without a passport and of offering surfing training in Lakey Beach. She reportedly used a Visit Stay Permit (ITK) that is not intended for work, and could not produce travel documents. The case is being processed by the Bima Immigration Office, with ongoing verification and a reminder to other foreigners to comply with residence permit rules.

Smart City Is No Longer a Dream; Information Technology Degree Graduates Are the Key

Indonesia's Republika reports that smart city concepts have moved from futuristic speculation to practical policy, with integrated data-driven systems spanning traffic, energy, health, and education. It argues that graduates of Information Technology study programmes are essential in preparing the workforce to design and manage these city systems, making IT graduates the key to future urban development.

Beef.com Launches Infrastructure Plan to Build the Digital Backbone of the Global Food Economy, Prioritising Farmers

Beef.com has unveiled a Stage I infrastructure plan to create a real-time, exchange-grade digital backbone for the global beef industry, linking ranchers directly to price discovery, payments, and market settlements at scale. The project seeks to replace opaque pricing and slow payments with a single, transparent layer supported by real assets, funded by institutional investors and infrastructure financiers.

Stinging rebuke by Deputy Minister of Home Affairs to Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq after she admits she does not understand bureaucracy

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya criticises Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq after she admits not understanding bureaucracy due to her background as a dangdut singer. He stresses that regional leaders are the highest authority in local government and must master, steer, and be fully responsible for the bureaucracy. The KPK has said FAR described herself as a musician rather than a bureaucrat and announced Ramadan-era arrests involving the regent and her aides, the seventh such operation this year.

Airlangga: Bullion bank customers reach 5.7 million, up sharply in a year

Airlangga Hartarto says bullion bank customers have risen to 5.7 million from 3.2 million in February 2025, amid the February 2025 launch of bullion banks by President Prabowo Subianto. He cites increases in gold pledged and lending at Pegadaian and BSI, with gold prices rising as global uncertainty grows, while highlighting government collaboration to boost financial literacy and inclusion.

Visiting the White House, Lionel Messi Responds as Donald Trump Compares Himself to Pelé

Lionel Messi attended a White House ceremony with Inter Miami to celebrate winning MLS Cup 2025. President Donald Trump sparked discussion by comparing Messi with Pelé, prompting a shy smile from the football star as guests cheered him; the piece highlights Messi's crucial role in Inter Miami's success and his continued productivity since joining Beckham’s club.

Golkar Responds to Fadia Arafiq's admission of not understanding governance rules after KPK sting operation

Golkar has commented on Fadia Arafiq's claim of not understanding governance after being caught in a KPK sting. Party officials emphasise that public officials must align with governance rules and continually update their legal knowledge, while KPK notes that Fadia's remarks conflict with established legal principles.

Baznas provides prosthetic arm for people with disabilities in Bogor

Baznas RI has distributed prosthetic arms to disabled residents in Cijeruk, Bogor Regency, West Java, to broaden access and independence for vulnerable groups, enabling more productive activity. Beneficiary Asep Saefudin, a farm labourer from Pasir Pogor, expresses gratitude, while Baznas emphasises that zakat should translate into tangible social and economic empowerment for disabled people.

South Jakarta Satpol PP Seizes 86 Bottles of Illegal Alcohol During Ramadan

South Jakarta's Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) seized 86 bottles of alcohol during Ramadan as part of maintaining public order. The operation also targeted illegal drugs and social issues, including the detention of two sex workers and 15 recipients of social welfare services, with further seizures of illicit drugs and enforcement actions against unlicensed sellers.

Foreign Ministry: Indonesians Safe from US–Israel–Iran Conflict, but Some Stranded by Flight Disruptions

Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry says there have been no reports of Indonesian citizens harmed amid the US–Israel–Iran tensions, though a number have been stranded due to flight suspensions and airspace restrictions. A 24-hour monitoring team has been deployed to Jeddah and Madinah to assist stranded Umrah pilgrims, with 32 Indonesians planned for evacuation in the first phase. Evacuation of Indonesians in Iran will begin in stages, initially via Azerbaijan, with subsequent routes to be determined by Indonesian representatives in Tehran and Baku in light of real-time security conditions.

Property Developer Boss Reveals Impact of the US-Israel–Iran War on House Prices

Indonesian property industry executives say the global conflict in the Middle East is not currently pressuring the domestic market significantly. The REI says the primary effect on property costs would come from higher logistics costs due to rising energy prices, but the impact on house prices is likely modest; with a 10% logistics cost increase, prices could rise roughly 3.5% given construction costs normally account for about 35% of the house price. Indonesia's building materials sector is robust, reducing import dependence, contributing to the sector's resilience amid external volatility.

Is Your THR Payment in Trouble? Note the Official Complaint Contacts of the Jakarta Provincial Government.

The Jakarta provincial government has launched a THR (holiday allowance) help desk, operating from 2 to 27 March 2026, to advise workers and handle complaints ahead of Eid al-Fitr. The service, run by the Department of Labour, Transmigration and Energy (Disnakertransgi), will explain THR rules, calculation methods, and complaint procedures, with officials urging timely payments in line with regulations. The rules require private-sector THR to be paid in full no later than seven days before Eid (H-7), and prohibit payment in instalments.

Chair of Commission III Stresses the Death Penalty as a Last Resort and Highly Selective

Habiburokhman, head of Indonesia's DPR Commission III, says the death penalty is a last resort and must be applied with careful selectivity. His remarks followed the Sea Dragon case, in which crewmember Fandi Ramadhan was sentenced to five years in prison instead of the death penalty, highlighting the judiciary's balancing of punishment with rehabilitation.

MWC 2026 | Convergence of 'Optical Intelligence': Connecting a Smarter, Brighter Future

At MWC 2026 in Barcelona, FiberHome showcased its 'Connecting the Bright Intelligent Future' theme, highlighting three core areas: optical‑computing infrastructure, boundless intelligent network connectivity, and enhanced industrial intelligence. The company presented innovations such as hollow‑core fibre, ultra‑low‑loss cables, and phase‑change/immersion cooling, with deployments in Shanghai, Changsha and other cities, aimed at accelerating AI‑driven data centres and smart infrastructure.

No Extension to the Mandatory Tender Offer, PIPA Prepares Rebranding and Rights Issue

PIPA clarified it will not extend the Mandatory Tender Offer by Morris Capital Indonesia and outlined strategic plans including a rebranding, expansion of business scope via KBLI updates, and a future rights issue; approvals and capital plans are subject to regulator clearance and internal reviews, with an AGM planned before the end of the first half of 2026.

No Adoption Applications Yet for Baby Abandoned by Sibling in Pasar Minggu

The Tunas Bangsa Social Shelter in Cipayung, East Jakarta, says there have been no adoption applications yet for AR, the infant abandoned by their elder sibling at a nasi uduk cart in Pasar Minggu. The baby is under medical care, with Infantrini formula provided and routine health checks, and any adoption would require a court process. The case also involves a note reportedly written by the elder sibling, highlighting the legal framework surrounding abandoned children.

Dompu's SPPG Resumes Operations after Temporary Closure by BGN

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) temporarily closed 42 SPPGs nationwide, including SPPG Manggeasi in Dompu, NTB, following field verifications, document checks and a comprehensive review of operational compliance for the provision of MBG. The Manggeasi SPPG has resumed operations as of 4 March 2026 after the parties submitted investigation results, with BGN emphasising ongoing monitoring to safeguard quality and safety across all SPPGs.

Still Under Investigation, Getaway Driver in the Killing of a Joxzin Member Could Become a Suspect

Police say they cannot yet confirm whether witness FS (22) will be charged in the killing of a Joxzin member in Kaliurang, Argomulyo, Sedayu, Bantul; investigators are still determining the extent of his involvement as FS remains a witness. The case led to the arrest of two suspects, with SS (29) identified as the executor and FS described as the getaway rider; FS is currently being questioned. Police emphasise that altering FS's status would require evidence and testimonies.

Huawei Launches iFTTO Solution to Accelerate Smart Transformation on Campus

At MWC Barcelona 2026, Huawei unveiled the iFTTO solution designed to speed up intelligent transformation in campus environments by leveraging artificial intelligence. By integrating optical networks with AI, iFTTO lays a robust foundation for a range of AI applications on campus, delivering convergence of multidimensional information, intelligent operations and maintenance (O&M), and open IoT, to help campuses evolve into truly smart environments.

PRR Task Force Chief Tito Prioritises Relocation of Tent Refugees to Huntara

Indonesia's Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian, as head of the PRR Task Force, prioritises moving refugees from tents to surplus huntara as part of Sumatra's post-disaster rehabilitation. He said tent-dwellers are the government's top priority, with refugees in other facilities to be addressed later, and highlighted Aceh Tamiang as needing more huntara. He also called for clearer mapping of huntara funding sources to provide accurate data for President's reports under Keppres 1/2026.

Colorectal cancer can affect young people: symptoms and causes

Colorectal cancer is increasingly affecting younger adults, with many cases diagnosed only at advanced stages. The article outlines dietary, lifestyle, genetic, and inflammatory factors as risks and warns that symptoms are often dismissed as ordinary digestive problems. It also advises early screening—now increasingly recommended to start at age 45 for many people—and outlines practical steps to reduce risk and encourage prompt medical evaluation for persistent symptoms.

South Jakarta KPKP vaccinates 1,255 rabies-susceptible animals to safeguard animal health

South Jakarta's KPKP has vaccinated 1,255 rabies-susceptible animals for free in February 2026 to protect animal and public health. Most are cats (1,117), with 121 dogs, 13 monkeys and 4 civets vaccinated across eight districts; the programme targets 10,200 HPR in 2026 and aims to keep Jakarta rabies-free.

Otis Appoints Nicolas Lopez as President, Asia Pacific

Otis Worldwide Corporation has appointed Nicolas (Nico) Lopez as President of Otis Asia Pacific (APAC), excluding Greater China, with immediate effect. He will lead Otis’ business and operations across Asia, focusing on customers, service, modernization, and innovation, and will strengthen the regional portfolio and relationships with customers. He succeeds Stéphane de Montlivault, who retires after four decades with Otis.

Minister of Agriculture Amran: Food Stocks Safe for 324 Days Ahead, Rice Production 2.6–5.7 Million Tonnes per Month

Indonesia's Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has announced that national food security remains secure and under control, with rice production ranging from 2.6 to 5.7 million tonnes per month and total rice stock of about 27.99 million tonnes. The stock is sufficient for roughly 324 days (about 10.8 months), supported by BULOG and standing crops; measures including pompanisasi and irpom aim to mitigate drought risk, with BULOG stocks expected to reach 5 million tonnes in two months. Surplus in other staples like chicken and eggs further stabilise food supplies.

Weaving a Circular Coconut Economy for Coastal Villages

Coastal Indonesian communities are turning to circular coconut economies to maximise value from every nut and diversify income beyond copra. The article highlights how by-products—from husk to shell to water and pulp—are being repurposed into products such as cocopeat, nata de coco, virgin coconut oil, charcoal briquettes, and animal feed, with concrete examples from Banyuwangi and Indragiri Hilir.

VinFast Secures 2,048 SPKs at IIMS 2026: Limo Green Most Ordered

VinFast Indonesia reported strong domestic demand at IIMS 2026, tallying 2,048 vehicle purchase orders, with Limo Green the top choice ahead of VF3. The seven-seat MPV's appeal is driven by price competitiveness and a free charging ecosystem plus a battery-subscription option, appealing to high-mobility users such as ride-hailing drivers. The majority of orders are expected to be fulfilled from the Subang, West Java manufacturing facility, with total orders reaching the thousands when including non-exhibition sales.

Eddy Soeparno Backs Prabowo's Instructions to Increase Indonesia's Oil and Gas Reserves

Eddy Soeparno, Deputy Speaker of the MPR from the PAN faction, backs President Prabowo's directive to raise Indonesia's strategic oil and gas stocks to 90 days from the current 20. He argues energy security requires sufficient and reliable supply, calling for storage expansion, diversification of imports, and a National Petroleum Fund to bolster domestic resilience.

Video: Profitable RI-US Trade Deal, Garment Exports to the US Face 0% Tariff

Indonesia aims to expand exports to non-traditional markets in Latin America, the Middle East and Africa, while maintaining strong ties with core partners. Through the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART), Indonesia seeks zero tariffs on 1,819 commodity groups, notably textiles and textile products, to boost garment competitiveness in the US. A USD 15 billion energy deal will support US imports of crude oil to LPG, and investment in 25 Special Economic Zones (KEKs) is expected to create around 250,000 jobs.

Agriculture Minister: Food security safe for 324 days, rice production at 5.7 million tonnes per month

The Indonesian Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman, who also heads Bapanas, says national food security is stable for 324 days with rice production up to 5.7 million tonnes per month. Bulog stock is projected to reach 5 million tonnes within two months, and fertiliser prices have fallen about 20 percent, bolstering farmer incentives.

Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq Admits Not Understanding Local Government

Golkar parliamentarian Ahmad Irawan says regional heads may seek explanations from relevant state bodies if something is unclear, in response to Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq's admission that she does not understand law and local government due to her background as a dangdut singer. He argues the bureaucracy exists to support leaders in administration, and that a lack of legal understanding does not excuse a regional head; the KPK has previously said she admitted this during questioning and she remains a suspect in a 2023-2026 procurement case in Pekalongan.

Iran announces 1,230 dead in US-Israel attacks

Iran claims over 1,230 people have been killed since the weekend as US-Israel strikes escalate; Tehran says civilian areas and cultural sites were hit, prompting retaliation with missiles and drones. President Masoud Pezeshkian says Iran must defend itself and condemns the attacks as flagrant violations of international law.

Iran Readies for Prolonged War, Set to Unveil New Weapons

Iran declares readiness for a protracted confrontation with the United States and Israel and says a new generation of strategic weapons will be unveiled. The statement by IRGC spokesman Brigadier General Ali Mohammad Naeni comes as tensions spike following a missile strike on Tel Aviv and claims of escalated operations. The move signals Tehran's intent to enhance its deterrence while raising regional instability.

Maximising Returns with the Bitcoin Proxy Strategy

Bitcoin’s fractal mirroring of the 2021 bull run is driving a shift in equity markets, with a consolidation zone around $60,000–$70,000 offering a window to accumulate proxy equities. The article explains the Bitcoin Proxy Strategy—investing in publicly listed firms with high exposure to Bitcoin—such as MicroStrategy (MSTR) and Coinbase (COIN)—to gain Bitcoin-like upside without direct crypto ownership. It also notes the emergence of 24‑hour US stock trading for Indonesian investors, enabling real-time entry and the use of a Barbell cash-management approach via Pluang.

Controller Sells 659 Million Shares in MNC Energy Investments (IATA), What's Happening?

BHIT sells 659 million IATA shares at Rp96, reducing its stake to 10.97%. Earlier, it sold 1.68 billion shares at Rp88 in November 2025, leaving BHIT with 18.84% of IATA; together the transactions reflect ongoing strategic realignment and are disclosed to the BEI.

Police hunt zig-zagging drivers on the Becakayu toll road in East Jakarta

Police in East Jakarta are pursuing drivers identified from a viral video showing five or more cars zig-zagging on the Becakayu toll road. Investigations are underway using CCTV to identify licence-plate numbers, and officers will start with vocal warnings and educational guidance to deter such behaviour.

US House of Representatives rejects war powers resolution to limit Trump's strikes on Iran

The US House of Representatives, led by the Republican Party, voted 212 to 219 to reject a war powers resolution aimed at restricting President Donald Trump’s ability to order military action against Iran, a day after the Senate blocked a similar measure. The vote highlights deep partisan divisions over whether Congress should constrain presidential military action in the Middle East.

UNM Explores Cooperation with BSN

Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) visited the Badan Standardisasi Nasional (BSN) to explore strategic cooperation in standardisation, education, and the development of students and lecturers. Discussions covered integrating standardisation into curricula, ToT, e-learning development, internships, and collaboration on MSME regulation; the plan includes a BSN Corner on campus and potential use of BSN’s free e-learning platform. The parties emphasised rapid realisation via a PKS without an MoU and highlighted opportunities for AI research and international judging roles.

China kicks off annual "two sessions," spotlight on new five-year plan

China has begun its annual 'two sessions' with the CPPCC and National People's Congress, as over 2,000 political advisers gather and Wang Huning presents the CPPCC work report to President Xi. The sessions mark the completion of the 14th Five-Year Plan and focus on the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030), emphasising high-quality development, technology-driven growth, and new growth drivers such as renewable energy and advanced technologies. Lawmakers will debate the draft plan along with environmental and national development laws, a process viewed by observers as potentially pivotal for the global economy.

Today, Delpedro Marhaen and Others Face Verdict Reading in the 2025 Incitement Case Linked to Protests

Delpedro Marhaen and three co-defendants face a verdict-reading in a case accusing them of incitement during the August 2025 protests that turned violent. The four are alleged to have uploaded at least 80 social media posts between 24–29 August 2025 to incite violence and recruit youths, with potential penalties under several laws including child protection and the IT (ITE) Act. The article also references Laras Faizati's case and related actions by her family and a separate court ruling.

Bareskrim Hands Over Rp58.183 Billion from Online Gambling Case in Support of Government Programme

The Indonesian Police's Cyber Crime Directorate (Dittipidsiber) handed over Rp58.183 billion in assets seized from online gambling and money-laundering cases to the Attorney General's Office for execution, as part of government asset-recovery efforts. The transfer follows analysis by PPATK and underscores the authorities' commitment to eradicating online gambling and enhancing non-tax state revenue.

Hundreds of Indonesian Property Projects Worth Rp34.5 Trillion Stall: What’s Happening?

Hundreds of Indonesian property projects worth Rp34.5 trillion are stalled due to multi-layer licensing and cross-ministerial policy misalignment, affecting land and investment; REI calls for a government balancing act between food land protection and housing needs, warning of potential job losses and a housing backlog of nearly 10 million units.

How to Anticipate Spending Surges Ahead of Mudik and Eid al-Fitr, Keeping Finances Safe and Under Control

The article offers practical budgeting strategies for the Mudik and Lebaran period, presenting six actionable steps to manage festive spending. It emphasises planning, prioritising essential costs, taking advantage of promotions, building an emergency fund, choosing appropriate payment methods, and tracking expenses to prevent financial strain during a peak travel season.

Gasoline prices in the United States jump sharply

AAA reports the national average price for regular gasoline rose by nearly 27 cents from a week earlier to $3.25 per gallon. The rise leaves prices at levels seen in early April 2025 as spring demand grows and summer-blend production begins. WTI crude futures surged over 8% to above $81 per barrel amid geopolitical tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, potentially maintaining higher prices and inflation risk.

Nothing Phone (4a) and Nothing Phone (4a) Pro Officially Launched, Featuring a 140x Zoom Camera

Nothing has launched two new smartphones, the Phone (4a) regular and the Phone (4a) Pro, unveiled at MWC in Barcelona on 5 March 2026. Both models feature Nothing’s Glyph Bar and Glyph Matrix design elements and triple rear cameras, led by a 50 MP main sensor with Pantone Validation, plus a 50 MP periscope telephoto (3.5x optical, up to 140x digital) and an 8 MP ultrawide, with a 32 MP front selfie camera. The regular model has a 6.78-inch display at 120 Hz and 4,500 nits peak brightness, while the Pro’s camera housing is larger and more angular.

China's top political advisory body starts annual session

China's CPPCC National Committee opened the fourth session of its 14th National Committee with more than 2,000 political advisors set to conduct in-depth consultations on CPC Central Committee decisions and the outline of the 15th Five-Year Plan. Wang Huning delivered a work report highlighting the CPC's leadership, multiparty cooperation and consultative democracy, and urged consensus-building to support the central tasks of the Party and the country. The CPPCC reported receiving 5,992 proposals since March 2025, with 5,061 accepted for processing and a 99.9% response rate, underscoring its role in policy consultation.

Indonesia, UK push downstream-ready health research collaboration

Indonesian authorities and the United Kingdom are advancing a downstream-focused health research collaboration anchored in multidisciplinary partnerships to boost national competitiveness, accelerate technology transfer, and finance joint projects. The programme targets Technology Readiness Levels four to six, aiming to validate and scale promising health innovations in Indonesia while leveraging the UK's strength in clinical delivery and regulatory capacity and Indonesia’s health needs and biodiversity. Officials say the alliance will help address priority health problems and enhance regulatory reforms, with BRIN researchers emphasising complementary strengths and shared development pathways.

Prosecutor to Consider Cassation After ABK Fandi Escapes Death Penalty

The prosecutor is weighing a cassation appeal after Fandi Ramadhan, an ABK on the Sea Dragon, was sentenced to five years in prison for conspiring to traffic Class I narcotics amounting to almost two tonnes. The judge rejected the death penalty, citing both aggravating and mitigating factors, while investigations into prosecutors’ conduct continues following internal disciplinary actions and parliamentary recommendations.

Indonesia's Foreign Exchange Reserves Fall to US$151.9 Billion

Indonesia’s foreign exchange reserves stood at US$151.9 billion at the end of February 2026, down from US$154.6 billion at the end of January 2026. Bank Indonesia says the reserve position remains ample to fund about 6.1 months of imports (5.9 months when including government external debt payments), above the international adequacy standard of around three months. The central bank cites factors such as tax and services receipts and government external debt borrowing, and notes external resilience is supported by potential foreign inflows amid positive investor sentiment towards the economy.

ITB Expert Analysis: The Strait of Hormuz Is Vital to Global Oil Supplies

An ITB expert argues that the Strait of Hormuz is a crucial chokepoint for global energy supply, with disruptions potentially triggering oil price hikes. Officials emphasise the Strait remains open, while domestic authorities pledge to keep energy prices stable ahead of Lebaran.

Dasco Calls on Civil Society to Strengthen National Unity

Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad urged civil society to reinforce national unity to help deliver President Prabowo Subianto's agenda, including welfare for the people. He criticised unhealthy disparagement on social media and urged constructive criticism rooted in nationalism, calling for patience as the administration works to realise its promises.

Indonesia's Financial Literacy Remains Low as Dangers of Illegal Online Lending Loom

Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo warns that Indonesia's rapid financial inclusion (92.74%) is not matched by the level of financial literacy (66.46%), underscoring the need to raise literacy as inclusion targets aim for 98% by 2045. He warns that low literacy leaves people vulnerable to financial crimes, including illegal online lending and digital fraud.

Tokyo says second Japanese citizen held in Iran

Tokyo says a second Japanese national is being held in Iran, with the government pressing for an immediate release and offering consular support to the individuals and their families. The confirmation follows reports that the first detainee includes NHK Tehran bureau chief Shinnosuke Kawashima, amid heightened tensions after US and Israeli strikes against Iran. Rights groups say Iranian authorities are silencing independent reporting.

This Airline Bans Passengers from Playing Music Without Headphones Onboard

United Airlines has formally updated its flight rules to require passengers to wear headphones when listening to audio or video on personal devices. The policy, added on 27 February 2026, makes failure to use headphones a potential ground for denial of boarding, reflecting a push to reduce cabin disruption as in-flight Wi‑Fi usage rises.

Rice Field as Dowry: How to Transfer the Land Title if the Owner Has Died?

Dowries in Indonesia can include a rice field. When the field remains registered in a deceased owner's name, heirs must first establish their rights and register the inheritance before the land title can be transferred, including as a dowry. If multiple heirs exist, they typically formalise a sharing deed before a land deed official to allocate ownership.

Son of Iran's Shah Urges 'Crusade' Against Tehran, Calls Europe to Join

Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran's last Shah, has urged European nations to join the United States and Israel in attacking Tehran, framing it as a 'crusade' against the Iranian regime. The appeal emerged from a prank call by Russian comedians, in which he also urged Iranians to topple the government and stated readiness to lead a transitional administration. The piece highlights Europe's divided stance and rising regional tensions amid threats to energy supplies through the Strait of Hormuz.

Realistic growth target shows China's economic resilience

China's 2026 growth target of 4.5-5% aligns with the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) and signals confidence in a stable, high-quality growth trajectory. The target rests on expanded domestic demand, technological innovation, and deeper reforms to bolster resilience amid external pressures and a slower global economy. It also supports the country's broader goal of socialist modernization by 2035 and offers policy flexibility to pursue growth while improving livelihoods and environmental protection.

Kakorlantas Ensures Maximum Security for Ketupat 2026 Operations in Bali During Eid al-Fitr and Nyepi

Police traffic chief Inspector General Agus Suryonugroho met Bali Governor I Wayan Koster to coordinate security for Ketupat 2026 ahead of Eid al-Fitr and Nyepi. Security measures will cover major transport corridors, ferry terminals, places of worship and Bali's tourist zones, and include support for the Kemala Run; the governor pledged cooperation and noted that Nyepi and Eid do not clash, with a joint circular to align religious activities.

Best Crypto Trading Apps in Indonesia

In 2026, the crypto market moves into a 'Digital Maturity' era with upbeat forecasts from Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan; Bitcoin is expected to stay above $100,000, potentially $200,000 with wider spot ETF adoption, while Ethereum could reach $4,000–$5,000 as Layer-2 matures and asset tokenisation grows among banks. The piece compares five widely used crypto trading apps in Indonesia, highlighting Pluang, Pintu, Ajaib Alpha and Triv, with notes on safety, regulation and risk.

Metro Jaya Police to Strengthen Human Resources Development Through Collaboration With Universities

The Metro Jaya Police, via its Human Resources Bureau, is expanding cooperation with four universities to bolster Polri's human resources capacity and integrity. The agreement focuses on education, research and the development of personnel competencies, with a ceremony led by the HR chief and attended by HR sub-division heads.

Batam Weather Today Dominated by Thick Clouds from Morning to Early Hours

The Batam forecast for 6 March 2026 predicts thick cloud cover from morning through the night, with high humidity and temperatures of 25–31°C. Local fishermen plan to continue sea activity with caution as light rain may occur; officials urge monitoring BMKG updates.

Why Are Humans and Chimpanzees Fascinated by Crystals?

New research published in Frontiers in Psychology reveals that chimpanzees raised in human environments can distinguish crystals from ordinary rocks and are strongly drawn to them, with interest waning over time. The findings, including keepers swapping crystals for bananas and yoghurt, suggest that crystals may hold perceived value and could point to deep evolutionary roots of human fascination with crystals.

KJP Plus 2026 Phase 1 January Disbursement This Month, Check the Amounts!

The Jakarta Education Office has announced that Phase 1 of KJP Plus 2026 for January will be disbursed this month, starting 5 March 2026, to 707,477 students. Payments are allocated by level with monthly personal cash and private-school allowances; cash withdrawals are capped at Rp 100,000 per month and any remaining funds can be used non-cash for students’ needs. The article also lists 15 free Jakarta attractions for KJP Plus holders and guidelines for their use.

DPR Member Rajiv Urges Government to Safeguard Food Distribution to Prevent Prices From Spiking

A member of Indonesia's DPR, Rajiv, distributed 30,000 basic food packages during Ramadan ahead of Eid al-Fitr 2026 and urged local authorities to ensure smooth food distribution to prevent price hikes. He emphasised local production and will monitor food availability in Bandung and Bandung Barat, aiming to stabilise supply and support farmers.

Six Measles Cases Confirmed, Yogyakarta Health Office Warns Immunisation Is The Key To Prevention

Six laboratory-confirmed measles cases were recorded in Yogyakarta city between January and early March 2026, prompting officials to stress immunisation as the principal preventive measure. All patients recovered and authorities say there is no outbreak or public health emergency, but vigilance remains due to the disease's high contagion and gaps in immunisation coverage. The report highlights continued challenges including vaccine refusals and increasing mobility ahead of holidays.

Sinar Mas-Listed Issuer Enters AI Business, Targets Teachers and Healthcare Workers

A Sinar Mas-listed issuer, PT DSST Mas Gemilang Tbk, and iFLYTEK have signed a strategic collaboration framework and joint venture to form PT Brilian Teknologi Sejahtera (BTS) to roll out AI solutions via localised large language model technology across Indonesia, starting with education and health sectors and expanding to telecoms, finance and energy. The partnership aims to address the teacher shortage of 1.3 million and improve health data and services, including TB screening, through AI-powered platforms.

Still Living at Your In-Laws' House? Here's an Easy Way to Realise Your Own Home via BRI KPR

Many young couples delay moving out by staying with their in-laws, but increasingly seek to own a home. BRI's KPR offers flexible eligibility and digital convenience through the BRImo app, with online and offline application options, plus simulators to plan repayments. Key considerations include loan tenor (up to 25 years) and keeping instalments to about 30% of monthly income.

Pertamina Ensures BBM Stock in Jatimbalinus Region Is Safe Ahead of Eid al-Fitr

Pertamina Patra Niaga's Jatimbalinus region assures sufficient fuel stocks to meet demand during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, reinforcing supply through regular planning and stock build-up; a Ramadan-Eid Task Force will be launched on March 9 to safeguard infrastructure and energy services, with authorities urged to avoid panic and report violations.

Perindo Optimistic that the Parliamentary Threshold Will Fall From 4 Percent in the 2029 Elections

Perindo says the parliamentary threshold (PT) will be lowered from 4% ahead of the 2029 elections, citing the Constitutional Court decision No. 116/PUU-XXIII/2025. The party argues a reduced threshold is needed to prevent wasted votes, but former coordinating minister Mahfud MD says the reform faces political obstacles as big parties benefit from votes wasted by smaller parties.

Delpedro and co. face verdict in incitement case over riotous demonstration

Delpedro Marhaen, executive director of Lokataru Foundation, and three co-defendants will face a verdict at the Central Jakarta District Court on a case of alleged incitement linked to a violent August 2025 demonstration. They are accused of disseminating 80 inflammatory posts on social media to provoke students and others to participate in riots in front of the Indonesian House of Representatives and other locations.

Be Vigilant! Potential Heavy Rain in Jakarta and the Thousand Islands on 6–12 March

Jakarta's BPBD has issued an extreme weather warning for DKI Jakarta and Kep. Seribu, valid 6–12 March 2026, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall. The alert urges residents to prepare, monitor flood indicators, and follow official guidance, including driving safety tips during downpours and floods.

Why Disaster Risk Maps Are Often Overlooked in Development

Indonesia faces a high risk of natural disasters due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire. Although a disaster risk map exists and a comprehensive legal framework requires mitigation to be integrated into development planning, local implementation remains inconsistent, allowing development in scientifically high-risk areas.

Indonesia's Foreign Exchange Reserves Fall Driven by Government Debt Payments

Indonesia's foreign exchange reserves fell to US$151.9 billion at end-February 2026, down from US$154.6 billion in January, as repayments on government external debt weighed on the stock. Bank Indonesia emphasised that reserves remain sufficient to cover around 6.1 months of imports and remain above international adequacy standards, with expectations of external resilience supported by stable investment inflows.

Central Java Weather Forecast for Today, 6 March 2026: Potential Thunderstorms and Extreme Weather

BMKG forecasts widespread extreme weather across 34 districts in Central Java on Friday, 6 March 2026, including thunderstorms and high waves at sea. Rain is expected across the region with coastal seas seeing waves of 1.25-2.5 metres and winds exceeding 15 knots, prompting warnings for maritime and land-based activities. Residents in hilly and river valley areas are urged to stay vigilant.

After Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq's Arrest, KPK Met with Wave of Support from Pekalongan Residents

Following the arrest of Pekalongan regent Fadia Arafiq on corruption allegations tied to outsourcing contracts, the KPK has been met with widespread public support from Pekalongan residents. The agency says the investigation will continue, pursuing other suspects if warranted, amid claims of a family-owned firm dominating local procurement.

Mendes invites APKASI to seek concrete solutions to accelerate village development

Mendes PDT Yandri Susanto urged APKASI to prioritise solidarity and shared interests to produce concrete solutions for village development. He emphasised dialogue among stakeholders and coordination with central and regional authorities, citing a recent PPDT meeting and the challenges of lagging regions, such as limited local fiscal capacity and insufficient basic services.

Malaysia gearing up for 2026 polls, say sources; pundits cite opposition infighting and strong economy as reasons

Preparations are underway for a possible general election in the second half of 2026, potentially alongside state polls in Melaka and Johor. Analysts say internal opposition divisions and a relatively strong economy could incentivise Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s Pakatan Harapan to seek an early mandate, despite his earlier objections.

US Grants India a 30-Day Permit to Buy Russian Oil Amid Iran Conflict

The United States has issued a temporary 30-day licence through OFAC allowing India to purchase and transport Russian crude oil and oil products already loaded on ships, amid Middle East disruptions and Iran-related supply risks. The measure aims to keep global energy markets flowing, though the government says it is a short-term solution and not intended to provide Russia with windfall gains. It underscores India’s role as a strategic partner and the broader geopolitics affecting energy security.

Killer of Joxzin Member in Bantul Knew Victim; Motive Was a Grudge

Police have disclosed that the motive for the killing of a Joxzin member in Bantul was a grudge after the suspect took offence at the victim's words. Two suspects, SS (29) and FS (22), were arrested in Sedayu after CCTV and witness statements helped identify them; authorities are still examining whether the suspect is connected to a community organisation (ormas).

Kemenekraf Turns DWP Creative Bazaar into a Showcase for Local Products

The Ministry of Creative Economy (Kemenekraf), via Dharma Wanita Persatuan (DWP), staged a creative bazaar at the Gedung Film Pesona Indonesia in Jakarta to showcase local products by Indonesian MSME creators, with 24 tenants across culinary, fashion, and crafts. Deputy Minister Irene Umar praised the event as an inclusive, empathetic demonstration of Indonesia's creative economy and reaffirmed government support to help producers reach wider markets, including digital marketing and distribution challenges.

Otospector offers used-car warranty of up to three years

Otospector has launched a three-year warranty for used cars in Indonesia, expanding its coverage from shorter terms and aiming to reassure buyers about potential repair costs. The programme is not conventional car insurance and represents a strategic move to set a higher standard for the used-car market. Announced in February 2026, the initiative seeks to shift consumer perceptions by offering longer protection.

Maintain public order as South Jakarta Satpol PP nets 21 PPKS during Ramadan

South Jakarta's Satpol PP rounded up 21 Pemerlu Pelayanan Kesejahteraan Sosial (PPKS) during Ramadan to uphold public order across multiple districts. The routine outreach, conducted with kelurahan, kecamatan, the TNI/Polri and the Dinas Sosial, forms part of enforcing Regional Regulation No. 8 of 2007 on Public Order. Some PPKS were handed over for further handling, with items such as guitars and clown equipment seized.

Five Factors That Will Determine How Long the US–Israel–Iran War Will Last in the Arab World

A five-factor framework proposed by Professor Hikmahanto Juwanam identifies military stamina, domestic political and public support, potential involvement of other states, international reaction, and the role of international mediators as key determinants of the conflict's duration. The analysis suggests the war could be short or protracted, depending on these dynamics.

Oppo A6s Officially Launched in Indonesia, Water-Resistant Phone Priced at About Rp5 Million

Oppo has officially launched its latest A Series smartphone in Indonesia, the Oppo A6s. The device features an IP69 rating for water and dust resistance, a 7,000 mAh battery, and a 50 MP main camera. Oppo promotes underwater photography and says the IP69 rating makes the phone suitable for use in rain, pools, outdoors, or other extreme conditions, with a premium metal frame and a 6.75-inch display running ColorOS 15.

Taspen Independent Commissioner Reviews THR Distribution in Makassar

PT TASPEN (Persero) began distributing the 2026 THR to all pensioners on 5 March through a nationwide system linked with 45 paying partners. Taspen's Independent Commissioner, Ariawan, personally monitored THR handovers in Makassar and reported smooth operations at partners including Bank Mandiri Taspen (Mantap), Bank BRI, the Post Office, and Bank Sulselbar. The THR payments are not subject to deductions beyond income tax and are expected to support purchasing power ahead of Idul Fitri, with Taspen offering health checks, UMKM support, sembako, and home delivery of funds for Post Office patrons.

Deputy Minister for Migrant Workers Protection Visits Jokowi in Solo: What Was Discussed

Indonesia’s Deputy Minister for Migrant Worker Protection (P2MI), Dzulfikar Ahmad Tawalla, met President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) at his Solo residence, receiving his input and guidance. Jokowi stressed perseverance and energy in public service and advised continuing direct engagement with communities. Dzulfikar plans further visits to Yogyakarta and Magelang to review the Free Nutritious Meals program and the Merah Putih Cooperative.

Dangerous Zig-Zag Car Maneuvers on Becakayu Toll Road Go Viral, Police Pursue Drivers

Video circulating on social media shows several cars driving in a zig-zag pattern on the Becakayu Toll Road near Kalimalang, East Jakarta. Police have identified the vehicles via CCTV and plan to visit the owners; authorities warn such dangerous driving endangers other road users on high-speed, barrier-separated toll roads.

Donald Trump Praises Messi's Champion Mentality: You Come and Win!

US President Donald Trump welcomed Lionel Messi and Inter Miami to the White House to honour their MLS Cup 2025 victory, praising Messi and even drawing a comparison with Pele. He used the moment to jab his predecessor, Biden, and highlighted the team's collective effort behind Miami's rise, with owner Jorge Mas emphasising the cultural shift in American football.

Strengthen Link and Match: BSN and Universitas Nusa Mandiri Drive the 3+1 Internship Experience Program

BSN hosted Universitas Nusa Mandiri to discuss strengthening the link between higher education and the world of work, focusing on expanding the 3+1 Internship Experience Program. The collaboration includes Training of Trainers for lecturers, expert lectures by BSN, and a structured, certified internship scheme, with further potential for curriculum development and SNI Corner on campus.

Video: Oil Prices Reach USD 80 per Barrel, MI Boss: The Amber Light Is On

Oil prices hit USD 80 per barrel and Indonesia's sovereign debt outlook was downgraded to negative by major rating agencies, weighing on markets amid Iran–US tensions. Panin Asset Management’s Rudiyanto notes that pressure is felt in both the IHSG and global equities, with risk sentiment shaped by geopolitical tensions and the Hormuz Strait closure. In the bond market, concerns over more aggressive fiscal management persist as investors weigh oil price moves—which could raise energy subsidies costs even as higher commodity prices could benefit palm oil, coal and nickel sectors. The government is urged to monitor global oil prices, as USD 80 per barrel is an amber signal, and a rise to USD 90-100 per barrel could further pressure the national budget.

The Government Has No Plans to Evacuate Indonesian Citizens in Lebanon

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry says there are 939 Indonesian citizens in Lebanon, most of whom are Indonesian National Armed Forces personnel attached to UNIFIL, and there are no evacuation plans at present. It is, however, beginning phased evacuations of Indonesians in Iran, with the first phase via Azerbaijan, subject to field conditions and coordination by the Indonesian embassies in Tehran and Baku. The ministry stressed ongoing monitoring and contingency planning amid the region's highly dynamic situation.

Telkom Assures Readiness of Infrastructure and Services During Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr

Telkom has assured readiness of infrastructure and telecommunications services for Ramadhan and Eid al-Fitr, signalling a projected 9.2% rise in digital traffic in 2026. The company will run its Safari Ramadan RAFI programme across Telkom Regional areas, with 13,700 personnel on 24/7 shifts and network readiness rehearsals to safeguard connectivity up to Lebaran.

Stepping Toward Hope on the Sloping Bridge: Polri's Service for Schoolchildren's Smiles in Riau

Polri in Riau is advancing a permanent bridge under the Jembatan Merah Putih Presisi Phase II, to provide safe access for schoolchildren in Dumai. The plan follows a survey that recommended a 24-by-1-metre iron bridge with a 15 cm-thick concrete deck, with local communities offering to assist. The project is framed within Polda Riau's Ramadan Safari as a sign of police service extending beyond enforcement to everyday infrastructure needs.

FKUI Professor Reveals Signs That Fasting Brings Health Benefits

Professor Ari Fahrial Syam of the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Medicine says that health benefits from fasting are evident if weight drops about 5% from the start of Ramadan. He cautioned that if weight stays the same or rises, the person has not gained the health benefits. He noted that post-Ramadan improvements in blood lipids may revert within a month unless diet and activity are maintained.

KPK Probes Further Assets Belonging to Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq Not Yet Seized

The Indonesian anti-corruption commission (KPK) has seized cars linked to the Pekalongan Regent case and will trace additional assets, including a house, as part of its ongoing investigation. It alleges that Fadia Arafiq’s husband and son founded PT Raja Nusantara Berjaya (RNB), with Fadia named as the beneficiary, and that the firm received substantial payments and contracts across 17 regional government units, three regional hospitals and one district in 2025.

Urged to resign from the Board of Peace, Prabowo wants to try diplomacy first

Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto is reluctant to rush a withdrawal from the Board of Peace amid US–Israel tensions with Iran, preferring to pursue peace efforts through the BoP first. Aides say he welcomes criticism, but wants to assess how Indonesia can contribute to peace before taking any decision, noting that negotiations on Palestine and Gaza are currently anchored in BoP.

Latest strike: Iran's missiles pound the heart of Israel's capital Tel Aviv

Iran has again launched air strikes on Israel, targeting Tel Aviv as it broadens its campaign against Hezbollah and as revenge for the killing of Iran's top leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Israel says it is intercepting missiles, with explosions heard across Tel Aviv and nearby areas; emergency services report no fatalities, while some residents evacuated.

Chronology of fatal motorcycle crash in North Jakarta

The Metropolitan Police's Traffic Directorate has disclosed the chronology of a fatal motorcycle crash in North Jakarta on Friday. A motorcyclist, AP (28), reportedly lost concentration and collided with a TransJakarta busway barrier on Jalan Bandengan Utara Raya before being struck from behind by a TransJakarta bus, causing death at the scene. A circulating Instagram video shows police and TransJakarta personnel securing the site; the post suggests the rider may have dozed off while travelling at high speed.