Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 9 March 2026

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Parliamentary Member Emphasises SMEs and Tourism as Pillars of Regional Economy

A member of the Indonesian Parliament's Commission VII has stressed that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), tourism, and the creative economy are strategic sectors essential to supporting regional economic development. Rycko Menoza argued that strengthening these sectors will accelerate capital circulation among communities and create sustainable economic growth, emphasising the need for synergy between central and local government policies to effectively empower the creative economy.

Koster Threatens to Suspend Special Financial Assistance to Villages Failing to Manage Waste at Source

Bali Governor Wayan Koster has threatened to withhold Special Financial Assistance (BKK) from village and traditional village governments that fail to implement source-based waste management, stressing the need for firm action to resolve waste problems at the village level. The provincial government and Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq view Bali as a priority pilot programme for waste management, with the Suwung landfill case now entering criminal investigation phase due to severe contamination and overfilling. Officials have mandated that unsorted waste cannot be accepted at Suwung and that organic waste must be completely diverted from the landfill by April 2026.

Indonesia Holds Strategic Advantage to Accelerate Furniture Industry Amid Global Conflict

The Indonesian Furniture and Craft Association (HIMKI) has asserted that Indonesia possesses significant competitive advantages to strengthen its furniture industry position amid Middle Eastern tensions, including political stability, reliable supply chains, and sustainable wood certification systems. The industry aims to boost furniture exports to USD 6 billion by 2030, leveraging unique design creativity, cultural value, and traditional craftsmanship alongside the International Furniture Expo (IFEX) 2026 as a key promotional platform. However, HIMKI acknowledges rising global logistics and energy costs as potential challenges to production and distribution efficiency.

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Attends Pre-trial Hearing, Asserts: I Am Seeking Legal Justice

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas attended a pre-trial hearing against the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) at the South Jakarta District Court on Monday, 9 March 2026, challenging his status as a suspect in an alleged 2024 hajj quota corruption case. The hearing proceeded briefly with closing arguments from both parties, with a ruling scheduled for Wednesday, 11 March 2026. Yaqut expressed satisfaction with the fair and objective conduct of the proceedings, stating he was seeking legal justice as a citizen.

China condemns 'evil designs' of Taiwan premier's Japan visit

China's Foreign Ministry strongly criticized Taiwan Premier Cho Jung-tai's weekend visit to Japan to watch the World Baseball Classic, accusing him of harbouring "evil designs" and engaging in independence-seeking provocations. Japan characterised the visit as private with no government contact, while Taiwan's government rejected Beijing's sovereignty claims and asserted its right to engage with other countries independently. The incident highlights escalating tensions between China and Japan, following earlier disputes over Taiwan and Japan's potential military intervention in any Chinese attempt to take the island.

Inside Disney Adventure: Disney Cruise Line's First Asian Vessel with Marvel Attractions

Disney Cruise Line has unveiled Disney Adventure, its newest cruise ship launching from Singapore in March 2026, featuring the longest roller coaster ever built on a cruise vessel and themed attractions based on Marvel, Big Hero 6, and The Little Mermaid. The 6,700-capacity ship is designed as a floating theme park rather than a traditional port-hopping cruise, with over 20 dining venues, eight live shows, and attractions tailored specifically to Asian market preferences through curated Asian cuisine and locally-inspired design elements.

Comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono Visits Police Headquarters Without Lawyer Haris Azhar, Expected to be Questioned Over Toraja Customary Trial

Comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono visited the Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Unit (Bareskrim) on 9 March 2026 for questioning regarding an alleged insult to Toraja customary traditions. The visit follows his participation in a customary trial held in South Sulawesi on 10 February 2026, where he accepted sanctions including a public apology, the provision of one pig and five chickens, and involvement from the Indigenous Peoples' Alliance of the Archipelago (AMAN). The police investigation marks a new phase in the dispute over his stand-up comedy material.

US Dollar Surges Past IDR 17,000 Mark

The US dollar strengthened significantly against the Indonesian rupiah, reaching approximately IDR 17,009 on Monday, 9 March 2026, marking a 0.50% gain and representing a 20-point weakening of the rupiah since Friday. Meanwhile, the dollar showed mixed performance against other major currencies, weakening against the euro, British pound, and Canadian dollar whilst strengthening against the Japanese yen and Swiss franc.

Traffic Police Commander Ensures Japek II Selatan South Toll Road is Ready to Facilitate Mudik Traffic Flow

Indonesia's Traffic Police (Korlantas Polri) Commander Irjen Agus Suryonugroho inspected the Jakarta-Cikampek (Japek) II Selatan toll road, confirming its readiness to facilitate mudik and balik traffic during the 2026 Lebaran holiday period. The road section from Sadang to Setu is nearly complete, with only two final repair points expected to be finished within days, and will help distribute traffic and reduce congestion on the primary Jakarta-Cikampek route.

BPJS Ketenagakerjaan partners with mosques and neighbourhood associations to protect informal workers

BPJS Ketenagakerjaan is expanding social security protection for informal workers through a community-based approach, partnering with mosques, RT/RW neighbourhood associations and local leaders. The initiative aims to make employment protection services more accessible and affordable, with the government offering a 50 percent reduction in contributions for non-wage earners under a recent regulation.

Police Discover Signs of Violence on Skeletal Remains of Woman in Depok

Police are investigating the discovery of skeletal remains of a 56-year-old woman (initials DH) found in Meruyung, Limo, Depok, with suspected signs of violence evident on the body. The remains were discovered by the victim's child and partner whilst clearing the house on 7 March 2026, and have been transferred to the Kramat Jati Police Hospital in East Jakarta for autopsy. Investigators have noted the presence of coffee powder scattered on the body, which may be significant to the ongoing inquiry.

MDKA Director Sells 95,000 Shares

Jason Laurence Greive, director of PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk (MDKA), divested 95,000 shares on 5 March 2026 at Rp3,850 per share. The transaction reduced Greive's shareholding from 578,200 to 483,200 shares, though his voting rights remained negligible at 0.002% of total outstanding shares, with no change to control of the company.

Skeletal Remains of Woman Found in Depok, Covered by Carpet

The skeletal remains of a 56-year-old woman identified as DH were discovered in her home in Meruyung, Limo, Depok on Saturday 7 March 2026 by her son and his partner whilst cleaning the house. Police investigation revealed the victim had been living with a common-law husband with whom she frequently quarrelled, and preliminary findings indicate missing items including a motorcycle and mobile phone, with an autopsy underway to determine cause of death.

West Java Man Arrested for Recording Woman in Ngurah Rai Airport Toilet and Threatening to Distribute Video

A 48-year-old man from West Java has been arrested by police for allegedly secretly recording a 22-year-old woman in the women's toilet of Bali's Ngurah Rai Airport and subsequently threatening to distribute the explicit footage unless she complied with his demands. The suspect, apprehended in Bekasi on 25 February 2026, confessed to the crime and faces charges under Indonesia's 2022 Sexual Violence Law with a potential prison sentence of up to 12 years.

Civil Coalition Criticises Alert Status 1 Order from TNI Commander: Unconstitutional

A coalition of civil society organisations, including Indonesia RISK Centre, Imparsial, YLBHI, KontraS and Amnesty International Indonesia, has criticised TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto's telegram directive ordering troops to implement Alert Status 1 in response to Middle East conflict dynamics, arguing it violates the constitution as military deployment authority rests solely with the President, not the TNI Commander. The coalition contends that the TNI, as a state defence instrument, should only implement defence policies set by the President and DPR, and argues no urgent justification currently exists for such military mobilisation given that domestic security remains under civil control.

South Jakarta Social Services reach 30 welfare service beneficiaries during Ramadhan

The South Jakarta Social Services Sub-Office (Sudinsos Jaksel) reached 30 individuals requiring welfare social services, including rough sleepers and beggars, during the month of Ramadhan from mid-February to early March 2026. The intensified outreach and monitoring effort aims to direct identified beneficiaries to social institutions or provide guidance according to their individual circumstances to prevent them from returning to the streets. The initiative seeks to support fasting individuals during Ramadhan whilst contributing to the local government's broader effort to address social welfare issues in South Jakarta.

IHSG falls 4 per cent as investors adopt "risk off" stance amid oil price surge

Indonesia's composite stock index (IHSG) declined 4.05 per cent to 7,278.16 points on Monday amid global risk-off sentiment triggered by escalating US-Israel-Iran tensions and surging oil prices, which spiked over 23 per cent on concerns about global inflation and economic growth. The decline was compounded by domestic concerns following Fitch Ratings' downgrade of Indonesia's credit outlook from stable to negative, prompting analysts to recommend selective investment strategies focused on fundamentally sound, undervalued stocks.

Iran: Russia and China can help ease Middle East regional conflict

Iranian government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani stated that Russia and China can play an effective role in strengthening diplomatic processes and easing tensions in the Middle East. She called on the international community to take a responsible approach to international law violations and attacks on civilians, following US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets on 28 February that resulted in damage and civilian casualties.

Chronology of Bantargebang Rubbish Mountain Landslide as Trucks Queue, Four Dead

A catastrophic landslide at the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Facility (TPST) in Bekasi, West Java on 8 March 2026 killed four people with five others still missing as of 9 March. The collapse buried thirteen people in total, including waste truck drivers, local residents, and waste pickers, prompting a major rescue operation involving 336 personnel from multiple agencies deploying fifteen excavators to search through the debris.

Banten Governor Andra Soni Reaffirms Free School Programme to Address School Dropouts

Banten Governor Andra Soni has prioritised a free school programme to increase educational access for low-income families, with 60,705 students already benefiting across 801 private schools in the 2025-2026 academic year. The provincial government has also established four People's Schools targeting underprivileged children, whilst emphasising that education and healthcare are inseparable pillars for developing human resources in Banten.

Ministry of Industry Strengthens Gold Quality Standards to Safeguard Indonesian Jewellery Products

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry is strengthening quality assurance standards for gold products to support the jewellery sector amid rising global gold prices and increased international demand. Jewellery exports reached USD 9.1 billion in 2025, up 65.54 per cent year-on-year, with the government implementing a Proficiency Testing Programme to enhance laboratory testing accuracy and consistency for precious metals.

Comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono Attends Second Questioning Regarding Toraja Case

Comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono attended his second questioning as a witness at the Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Directorate (Bareskrim) regarding allegations of insulting the Toraja ethnic group through electronic media. During the questioning, investigators sought clarification on the customary Toraja court proceedings Pandji underwent, and he expressed hope that restorative justice principles would be applied in his case. The case stems from a November 2025 report by the Toraja Youth Alliance over allegedly derogatory comments made during his stand-up comedy performance about Toraja funeral rites, following which Pandji underwent traditional Toraja sanctions in February 2026.

Eid exodus 2026: List of electric vehicle charging stations on Tangerang-Merak toll road

As electric vehicle adoption increases in Indonesia, the Tangerang-Merak toll road, operated by PT Marga Mandalasakti (Astra Infra Toll Road), has expanded charging infrastructure to accommodate Eid holiday travellers. The nearly 73-kilometre toll road now offers both fast-charging and standard charging stations to support the growing demand for electric vehicle travel during the 2026 Eid exodus.

Metro Police Chief Deploys K9 Unit to Search for Bantargebang Landfill Landslide Victims

A sudden rubbish landslide at the Bantargebang waste treatment facility in Bekasi, West Java, on 8 March 2026 claimed four lives and trapped an estimated ten people beneath the debris. The Metro Jaya Police Chief personally directed rescue operations and authorised the deployment of K9 units to maximise victim recovery efforts.

Prabowo Convenes Former Aides at Hambalang

President Prabowo Subianto held a casual gathering with his former military aides and security personnel at his private residence in Hambalang, reconnecting with those who served alongside him during his tenure at Kostrad (Strategic Reserve Command) and Kopassus (Special Forces Command) three decades ago. Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya noted that whilst some former aides remain active within the Indonesian Armed Forces, others have retired or moved into employment within Prabowo's private business ventures, with particular emphasis placed on the president's continued support for the education and welfare of their families.

Zone 4 of Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Facility Closed, Victims Still Buried under Rubbish

The Jakarta Provincial Government has temporarily closed Zone 4 of the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Facility (TPST) following a landslide incident on 8 March, with four confirmed deaths and ongoing rescue operations. The facility processes approximately 7,300 to 7,500 tonnes of waste daily, and authorities are working to divert waste to other zones and accelerate operations at the RDF Plant in Rorotan to prevent garbage accumulation across Jakarta. A multi-agency emergency response has been mobilised, including military units, disaster management authorities, and search and rescue teams, to safely evacuate victims and stabilise the affected area.

Interior Minister: Regional Leaders to Remain on Standby in Their Territories During Eid Holiday

Interior Minister Tito Karnavian has instructed all regional heads and deputy regional heads to remain stationed in their respective territories from one week before to one week after Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah. The directive, issued via circular on 8 March 2026, also postpones all international travel by regional leaders from 14–28 March 2026, with exceptions only for essential state activities or medical treatment, to ensure continued governance and rapid response to public needs during the holiday period.

Finance Minister Still Undecided on Continuing Electric Vehicle Incentives

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa remains hesitant about extending government incentives for electric vehicles due to concerns about their impact on the state budget deficit amid global economic uncertainty. The Ministry of Finance is recalculating the fiscal impact of the incentive scheme, which has cost 7 trillion rupiah over the past two years, whilst global economic pressures including potential energy subsidy increases and export volatility continue to constrain the budget.

Cryptocurrency Markets Collapse as Bitcoin and Altcoins Fall Following Profit-Taking by Major Traders

The cryptocurrency market has entered a correction phase at the start of the week as traders engage in profit-taking following a significant rally driven by geopolitical tensions between Iran and the United States. Bitcoin has declined from its US$72,000 peak to approximately US$66,487, whilst major altcoins have experienced moderate to significant losses, signalling that momentum is shifting from buying pressure to consolidation as macroeconomic fundamentals regain investor focus.

BMKG: Warning for potential heavy rainfall with lightning across East Kalimantan 9-11 March

Indonesia's Meteorological, Climatological, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) has issued a warning for East Kalimantan residents to be cautious of potential hydrometereological disasters from 9-11 March 2026, including heavy rainfall accompanied by lightning and strong winds. The agency forecasts heavy rain in Balikpapan City and Kutai Timur Regency on 9 March, with risks of flooding, river overflow, landslides, and storms due to the region's proximity to riverbanks and hilly terrain.

TNI on Alert Level 1, Defence Attaché Ordered to Plan Evacuation of Indonesian Citizens in Middle East

Indonesia's Armed Forces (TNI) Commander General Agus Subiyanto has issued a level 1 alert directive in response to escalating global conflicts, particularly in the Middle East. The directive includes seven major instructions, including an order for defence attachés to map the locations of Indonesian citizens in affected countries and prepare evacuation plans in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Indonesian embassies. The TNI emphasises that the heightened readiness is part of its core duty to protect national security and maintain operational capacity in response to international, regional, and domestic developments.

Antam Gold Price Plummets by Rp55,000 per Gram

PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) gold prices fell significantly on Monday, 9 March 2026, declining by Rp55,000 per gram to Rp3,004,000 per gram. The buyback price also dropped by Rp65,000 to Rp2,757,000 per gram, with buyback transactions exceeding Rp10 million now subject to a 1.5 per cent income tax (PPh 22) in accordance with updated government regulations.

Aipda Santho's Disciplined Budget Management Earns Him 'Best Treasury Officer' Honour

Aipda Santho Simanjuntak, Finance Chief at Kapuas Police Station in Central Kalimantan, has achieved a perfect Budget Performance Indicator (IKPA) score for three consecutive years through rigorous budgetary discipline and transparent financial management. Nominated for the Hoegeng Awards 2026 by a colleague, Santho's exemplary conduct has earned recognition from the National Police Chief, regional police, and the Directorate General of Treasury, demonstrating his commitment to integrity and accountability in public fund management.

Government Launches Subsidised Apartment Construction at Meikarta with Target of 141,000 Units

The Indonesian government has officially begun construction of subsidised apartment complexes at Meikarta in Bekasi Regency, targeting approximately 141,000 units as a flagship project for President Prabowo Subianto's ambitious 3 Million Homes Programme for low-income residents. Lippo Group has donated 30 hectares of land to the government, with the initial phase involving construction of 18 towers at an estimated investment of Rp14-16 trillion, whilst the project is expected to serve as a model for public-private collaboration in addressing Indonesia's housing shortage.

Current Situation in Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Site Landslide: Hundreds of Personnel Still Searching for 5 Victims

Search and rescue operations continue at Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Site (TPST) in Bekasi following a major garbage landslide on 9 March 2026. Hundreds of personnel are engaged in recovery efforts for five missing persons—two waste transport truck drivers and three waste pickers—with operations hampered by high waste piles, toxic gas emissions, and water accumulation. Governor Pramono Anung visited the site to assess the rescue operation and incident management efforts.

TNI Soldier Arrested for Burglaries at Six Minimarkets in Tulungagung and Trenggalek

A member of the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) identified as AM, stationed at the Pakel Military District Command in Tulungagung, has been arrested for allegedly burgling six minimarkets and shops across Tulungagung and Trenggalek in East Java. The suspect, who was previously imprisoned for similar offences in 2024, was apprehended whilst attempting a break-in at a minimarket on 7 March 2026, and the military has vowed to prosecute the case firmly under military law.

Rupiah Weakens as US Dollar Breaks Through Rp 17,000

The Indonesian rupiah weakened against the US dollar on Monday, 9 March 2026, with the greenback surging to Rp 17,009, a 0.50 per cent increase from Friday's closing rate of Rp 16,925. The US dollar showed mixed performance against other major currencies, weakening against the euro, pound sterling, and Australian dollar, whilst strengthening against the Japanese yen and Swiss franc.

Abadi Kreasi Unggul Nusantara increases shareholding in INET

Abadi Kreasi Unggul Nusantara, the controlling shareholder of technology company INET, has increased its stake through the purchase of 40.96 million shares at Rp304 per share on 6 March 2026. The transaction raises its total shareholding to 13.33 billion shares, representing 59.56% of voting rights, reinforcing its controlling position in the company.

Indonesia Eximbank Channels 13.5 Trillion Rupiah in Special Export Assignment Financing Throughout 2025

Indonesia Eximbank (LPEI) disbursed Rp13.5 trillion in Special Export Assignment (PKE) financing throughout 2025, representing an 85 per cent year-on-year increase from Rp7.3 trillion in 2024, demonstrating the programme's effectiveness in strengthening Indonesia's export ecosystem. The financing is estimated to generate or conserve foreign exchange valued at 2.182 million US dollars, with support extended to priority sectors including pharmaceuticals, healthcare equipment, and transportation equipment. The government, through the Ministry of Finance's Directorate General for Financing and Risk Management, launched a new PKE guarantee and insurance programme in February 2026 to further strengthen risk mitigation for exporters in strategic industries.

IHSG Plunges Sharply After Opening, Giant Bank Stocks and Global Oil Volatility Weigh on Market

Indonesia's composite index (IHSG) fell 3.32 per cent to 7,333.74 points on Monday trading, driven by significant selling pressure from foreign investors exiting major banking stocks and broader regional market weakness amid global geopolitical tensions. Leading banks including BRI, BCA, and Bank Mandiri experienced substantial declines, with foreign investors recording significant net selling across banking sector shares totalling over 1.9 trillion rupiah for the week.

Comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono Responds to Bareskrim Questioning Over Toraja Joke Case

Comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono appeared for questioning at the Indonesian Police's Cyber Crime Directorate (Bareskrim) as a witness in a case alleging he insulted Toraja customs through his comedy material. Pandji, who has already undergone a traditional Toraja customary trial and been sanctioned with a fine of one pig and five chickens, indicated his preference for resolving the matter through restorative justice rather than formal prosecution.

Rahayu Saraswati Sells 48.97 Million TRIN Shares

Rahayu Saraswati Djojohadikusumo, chairman of PT Perintis Triniti Properti Tbk (TRIN), has divested 48.97 million shares through her entity PT Satya Devya between December 2025 and February 2026, reducing her stake from 4% to 2.92% of voting rights. The sale generated approximately IDR53.53 billion, realising a 446.78% profit based on her purchase price of IDR200 per share just three months earlier.

South Jakarta Civil Police Round Up Cart Dwelling Family in Tebet Area

The South Jakarta Civil Police (Satpol PP) apprehended a family of cart dwellers during a social welfare enforcement operation in Tebet on 6 March. The family of four, originally from Depok, were transported to a social welfare facility for further assistance as part of routine operations conducted jointly with the South Jakarta Social Services Sub-office. This enforcement action is part of the Jakarta Governor's directive to regulate street dwellers, particularly during Ramadan when such populations typically increase.

Ahead of 31 March Deadline, Annual SPT Filing Reaches 6.69 Million

The Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has recorded 6.69 million Annual Personal Income Tax Returns (SPT) filed for the 2025 tax year as of 9 March, with the majority submitted through the DJP's Coretax system. With the 31 March deadline approaching, the DJP is urging taxpayers to file early to avoid system congestion and administrative penalties. Individual employees account for the bulk of filings, representing 5.95 million returns.

Holiday Allowance as Economic Stimulus

Indonesia's government has allocated approximately Rp55 trillion for holiday allowances (THR) to civil servants, military, and police in 2026, representing a 10 per cent increase from the previous year. The analysis examines THR as a seasonal economic stimulus mechanism that drives domestic consumption across retail, food and beverage, hospitality, and transport sectors, whilst emphasising the importance of coordinated fiscal policy, price stability, and labour oversight to ensure sustained economic impact beyond short-term spending cycles.

Fuel Shortage in Northern and Eastern Aceh as Multiple Petrol Stations Close Due to Stock Depletion

Multiple petrol stations across northern and eastern Aceh have closed due to depleted fuel stocks, affecting districts including Pidie Jaya, Bireuen, North Aceh, East Aceh, and Aceh Tamiang, while long queues that persisted for six days in central regions begin to normalise. The shortage, encompassing both subsidised and non-subsidised fuel types, threatens to trigger renewed public panic and erode confidence in government assurances regarding adequate fuel supply. University of Batam rector Samsul Rizal warns that panic buying could worsen distribution issues, particularly heading into Eid celebrations when fuel demand typically surges significantly.

TNBTS closes Ranu Regulo from tourism activities due to extreme weather

Indonesia's Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park Authority (TNBTS) has closed the Ranu Regulo tourism area indefinitely from 8 March 2026 due to extreme weather forecasts affecting East Java. The closure, prompted by warnings from Indonesia's meteorological agency (BMKG) regarding active Asian monsoon conditions and atmospheric disturbances, aims to protect the 156 domestic tourists who had booked visits during March from risks including landslides, fallen trees, and strong winds.

Deputy Chair of House of Representatives and State Secretary Meet Rizieq Shihab in Petamburan

Deputy Chair of the Indonesian House of Representatives Sufmi Dasco Ahmad and State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi met with Islamic Front Solidarity (FPI) leader Rizieq Shihab at his residence in Petamburan, Jakarta on 7 March. According to Shihab's legal representative Aziz Yanuar, the meeting was a routine consultation between government envoys and Islamic scholars to discuss and exchange views on government policy. The meeting follows President Prabowo Subianto's earlier gathering with Islamic leaders and pesantren heads at the presidential palace, where Shihab was represented by his son-in-law.

Global Oil Prices Surge Past US$114, Asian Markets Plunge

Global financial markets experienced severe turmoil on Monday 9 March as crude oil prices surged dramatically past US$114 per barrel, driven by escalating US-Israel military operations against Iran and concerns over disruptions to energy shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Asian stock exchanges plummeted sharply, with South Korea's Kospi Index falling over 8% and triggering trading halts, whilst major Middle Eastern oil producers—Iraq, Kuwait, and the UAE—reduced output amid critical storage constraints. The US military operations are estimated to cost over US$6 billion in the first week alone, whilst both American and Iranian officials publicly traded blame over the crisis's economic consequences.

Fuel Selection Matters: Higher RON Does Not Guarantee Optimal Vehicle Performance

Using petrol with a higher octane rating (RON) than the manufacturer's recommendation does not automatically improve vehicle performance or fuel efficiency, according to an expert. The ignition timing in an engine is calibrated for a specific fuel specification, and using incompatible fuel can result in suboptimal combustion, reduced engine power, and increased emissions.

Landfill Rubbish Collapse at Bantargebang TPST: Began with Residents' Cries

A catastrophic rubbish collapse at Bantargebang TPST landfill in Bekasi, West Java on 8 March 2026 claimed at least four lives and buried an estimated ten people. The incident, triggered by prolonged heavy rainfall, buried rubbish collection trucks and a coffee stall whilst waste trucks were unloading. Ongoing search and rescue operations involve multiple agencies including the military, police, regional disaster management authorities, and volunteers.

IHSG Plummets 5.2%, Analyst Responses

Indonesia's Composite Stock Index (IHSG) collapsed 5.2% to 7,156 points at the start of the week, driven by geopolitical tensions between the US and Iran, downgraded fiscal outlook from Fitch Ratings, and concerns over Indonesia's weighting in global indices. Analysts highlight three main pressures: external geopolitical contagion causing capital flight to safer assets, potential reclassification of Indonesia from emerging to frontier market status within MSCI indices, and rising concerns over sovereign credit risk amid fiscal pressures from government programmes including free nutritious meals.

Oil Price Surge Could Drive Budget Deficit Close to 4 Per Cent

An economist from the Institute for Development of Economics and Finance has warned that surging oil prices—potentially approaching $100 per barrel due to tensions in the Strait of Hormuz—could push Indonesia's budget deficit toward 4 per cent of GDP, exceeding the legal ceiling of 3 per cent. The analyst recommends four measures: significant budget efficiency, accelerated renewable energy conversion, economic stimulus through deregulation, and renegotiation or cancellation of Indonesia's trade agreement with the United States.

BMKG Reveals Factors Behind Extreme Rainfall in Jakarta

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has attributed recent extreme rainfall in Jakarta and the surrounding Greater Jakarta region to a combination of atmospheric dynamics, including the interaction of monsoon winds from Asia with westerly winds from the Indian Ocean, the active Madden-Julian Oscillation, and a significant cold surge across the equator. Whilst rainfall is expected to decrease in the coming week, BMKG warns that moderate to heavy localised downpours remain possible across several areas in the region, particularly in Tangerang Regency, South Tangerang, West and South Jakarta, and Bogor, and has urged residents to remain vigilant against extreme weather including lightning and strong winds.

Ahead of Larantuka Holy Week, Hundreds of Pilgrims Begin Registering

Hundreds of pilgrims from across Indonesia have begun registering to attend Semana Santa (Holy Week) in Larantuka, East Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, scheduled from 29 March to 5 April 2026. As of 9 March, 136 pilgrims had registered, including both domestic visitors from Sulawesi, Java and Kalimantan, and foreign nationals. Larantuka hosts Indonesia's oldest Catholic tradition, featuring the iconic Semana Santa procession that commemorates the Passion of Jesus and the Virgin Mary.

Alert Status 1! Military Commander Orders Personnel and Equipment Readiness

Indonesia's Military Commander General Agus Subiyanto has issued an alert status 1 telegram ordering all TNI units to heighten readiness in response to strategic developments in the international, regional and national environment. The directive includes deploying personnel and weaponry, conducting patrols of vital infrastructure including airports and ports, tasking intelligence agencies to track Indonesian nationals in conflict zones, and increasing security operations around embassies in Jakarta.

Solo City Imposes Nine-Month Salary Cut on Civil Servant for Disclosing Rio Haryanto's Documents

The Solo City government has sanctioned a former village officer who disclosed personal documents belonging to former Formula 1 driver Rio Haryanto, imposing a 5 per cent salary reduction for nine months. The disciplinary decision was made in March 2026 following consultation with the Inspectorate, legal department, and regional secretary, with the official notification letter issued on 6 March.

Disbursal Complete! 97% of ASN Retirees Have Received Iledul-Fitri Allowance 2026

PT Taspen has successfully disbursed Iledul-Fitri allowances (THR) to 3.2 million retirees, representing 97% of eligible beneficiaries as of 6 March 2026, exceeding the government deadline. The accelerated distribution was enabled by digital transformation initiatives that reduced administrative processing from three days to one day, whilst maintaining compliance with the five principles of accuracy: correct recipient, correct amount, correct timing, correct location, and correct administration.

Work From Anywhere Policy Does Not Apply to Civil Servants in Mataram City Ahead of Eid

Mataram City Government in West Nusa Tenggara has decided not to implement the work from anywhere (WFA) policy for thousands of civil servants on 16–17 March and 25–27 March 2026, despite central government guidance permitting it. The local administration cites geographic proximity of offices as justification, whilst allowing staff to request leave from their department heads if needed.

Latest Toll Tariffs and 30% Discount Schedule for Eid Homecoming 2026

The Indonesian government through the Ministry of Public Works and the Toll Road Regulatory Body has announced a 30% toll discount for Eid 2026 homecoming travel (mudik), effective during peak periods in March 2026. The discount applies to long-distance toll users paying electronically, with several toll sections operating toll-free during the holiday period. Travellers are advised to maintain electronic account balances of 10-20% above estimated costs to avoid disruptions.

Through Ramadan Gifts, Muhammadiyah Strengthens Disabled Persons and Farmers Towards Self-Reliance

Muhammadiyah's Community Empowerment Board distributed Ramadan gifts to eleven support groups including farmer associations, disabled persons' bank cooperatives, and small and medium enterprises, demonstrating the organisation's commitment to reducing dependency and fostering self-reliance. The initiative, which engaged over 600 participants, reflects Muhammadiyah's broader empowerment movement rooted in the Al Ma'un initiative established by founder Ahmad Dahlan, extending support to vulnerable populations in urban areas and remote 3T regions across Indonesia.

Asian Stock Markets Collapse as Iran Threatens Oil Prices Could Breach US$200 Per Barrel

Asian stock markets suffered sharp declines on Monday morning as investors sold off holdings in anticipation of surging energy prices stemming from escalating US-Israel-Iran tensions. The Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps threatened to target energy facilities across the region and warned oil prices could spike to US$200 per barrel, prompting the International Monetary Fund to warn that such energy shocks would trigger global inflation and economic slowdown.

Landfill Collapse at Bantargebang: 4 Dead and 5 Missing

A catastrophic collapse of a waste pile at the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Facility in Bekasi, West Java, has claimed four lives with five others still missing as of Monday morning. Rescue efforts involving 336 personnel from multiple agencies, including 15 excavators, are underway to search through the debris and locate the missing persons. The incident, which occurred Sunday afternoon, was captured on video showing the rubbish mountain collapsing and burying several vehicles in the disposal area.

Popular: TNI Alert Status 1 Clarification Needed, National Energy Council Assures Fuel Reserves Safe

A roundup of Monday's top stories highlights calls for the Indonesian military (TNI) to provide clear public explanation of its Alert Status 1 declaration, amid concerns about conflicting statements within the armed forces. The National Energy Council has reassured citizens that fuel reserves are adequate and stable, whilst the National Nutrition Body has ordered catering partners to publish daily meal menus on social media for transparency.

Kapuk Muara North Jakarta Flooded 35cm, Several Motorcycles Stalled

Several stretches of Kapuk Muara Road in North Jakarta remained flooded on Monday 9 March 2026, with water levels between 10 and 35 centimetres following heavy rainfall on Saturday evening. Multiple motorcyclists were stranded and forced to turn back, with residents noting the area is a chronic flooding hotspot that experiences water accumulation whenever rain falls.

Homebound Travel During Rainy Season: Drivers Must Not Recklessly Cross Flood Waters

With Lebaran exodus planned for mid-March 2026 coinciding with Indonesia's rainy season, driving safety experts warn motorists against carelessly crossing water-logged roads. Hidden potholes beneath floodwaters can destabilise vehicles and cause loss of control, requiring drivers to reduce speed, maintain distance, and seek alternative routes when water levels appear too deep.

Surge in Counterfeit Vehicle Documents Prompts Police Warning on Illegal Vehicles

The Directorate of Registration and Identification of Indonesia's Traffic Police has warned the public about the dangers of illegally-documented vehicles following a surge in cases of forged vehicle registration documents (STNK) and ownership certificates (BPKB) across multiple regions. Police have provided guidance on identifying authentic documents and recommended preventive measures, including verification at Samsat offices and checking for tell-tale signs of forgery such as discoloured holograms, poor print quality, and non-functional security features. The police also announced continued efforts to strengthen surveillance and coordinate with regional forces to dismantle cross-provincial document forgery networks.

World Gold Price Falls 2.5 Per Cent, Pressured by US Dollar Strength and Inflation Concerns

Global gold prices declined more than 2 per cent on Monday trading, falling to $5,041.89 per ounce amid a strengthening US dollar and rising energy-driven inflation concerns. The US dollar index reached near three-month highs, making gold more expensive for non-dollar currency holders and reducing investor demand, whilst geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and expectations of maintained Federal Reserve interest rates through March further influenced market sentiment. Other precious metals including silver, platinum, and palladium also experienced significant corrections.

Senior Academics at Padjadjaran University Issue Statement on Middle East Conflict

Senior academics and professors from Padjadjaran University in Bandung have issued a statement asserting that Indonesia's foreign policy of free and active neutrality is facing serious challenges, particularly regarding President Prabowo's decision to join the Board of Peace and Israel's military aggression against Iran with US support. The academics call for the Indonesian government to take a firm and consistent stance aligned with the 1945 Constitution's commitment to international order based on independence, lasting peace, and social justice, whilst urging President Prabowo to conduct a comprehensive review of Indonesia's BoP membership.

Iran Threatens to Destroy Gulf Oil Facilities in Escalating Conflict with Israel

Iran has threatened to destroy oil facilities in Gulf states following Israeli airstrikes on Iranian energy infrastructure near Tehran, raising global concerns about oil supply disruptions and prices potentially exceeding $200 per barrel. The escalation coincides with Iran's announcement that Mojtaba Khamenei has been selected as the new supreme leader, succeeding his father Ali Khamenei, whilst the United States seeks to reassure energy markets that it will not target Iranian infrastructure.

Civil Coalition Deems Military Alert Level 1 Status Unconstitutional

A coalition of 26 civil society organisations has condemned Indonesian military chief General Agus Subiyanto's declaration of alert level 1 status as unconstitutional, arguing that military deployment authority rests solely with the President under the 1945 Constitution. The coalition contends that the military readiness order, issued on 1 March 2026 and purportedly in response to Middle Eastern conflicts, is unnecessary as civilian institutions and law enforcement remain capable of maintaining domestic security.

Cinema XXI records net profit of Rp776.2 billion in 2025

Cinema XXI, Indonesia's largest cinema chain, reported net profit of Rp776.2 billion in 2025 on revenue of Rp5.9 trillion, representing 2.6% growth compared to 2024. The company expanded its network by 12 new cinemas and 43 screens during 2025, now operating 1,388 screens across 267 cinemas in 56 cities and 30 regencies throughout Indonesia, whilst bolstering revenue streams through premium studios and food and beverage offerings.

IHSG Falls Sharply as Rupiah Nearly Touches Rp17,000 per US Dollar

Indonesia's composite stock index (IHSG) declined 5.56 per cent to 7,164.28 on Monday, whilst the rupiah weakened 0.41 per cent to nearly Rp16,994 per US dollar, driven by deteriorating global risk sentiment as crude oil prices surpassed the psychological threshold of USD100 per barrel. The sell-off, which saw 658 stocks decline against only 29 gainers, reflects investor concerns over potential global economic slowdown and renewed inflationary pressures stemming from elevated energy costs.

Asia's Currency Crisis: All Asian Currencies Weaken Against US Dollar

Asian currencies collectively weakened against the US dollar on Monday, 9 March 2026, with the Thai baht experiencing the steepest decline at 1.04% and the Philippine peso falling 1.14%, as investors sought safe-haven assets amid escalating Middle East tensions. The strengthening US dollar index, driven by geopolitical risks and surging oil prices, pressured all eleven monitored Asian currencies, with the Indonesian rupiah declining 0.44% to approach the psychologically significant 17,000 threshold against the dollar. Uncertainty over Middle East conflict resolution and potential disruptions to energy supplies through the Strait of Hormuz have prompted investors to favour the US dollar as a more liquid, safer asset.

China highlights 15th Five-Year Plan at annual "Two Sessions" meeting

China's annual "Two Sessions" political meeting began on 4 March to discuss the nation's new development direction and draft the 15th Five-Year Plan to guide economic development until the end of the decade. The meetings, involving over 2,000 political advisers and lawmakers, are expected to shape China's path towards becoming an advanced socialist modern nation by mid-century, whilst addressing both external challenges such as geopolitical tensions and internal issues including domestic demand.

Global Oil Prices Surge Sharply, Brent Crude Breaks Through 111 Dollars Per Barrel

Global crude oil prices surged dramatically on Monday, 9 March 2026, driven by escalating tensions in the Middle East that threaten energy supplies. Brent crude for May 2026 delivery jumped 19.8 per cent to $111.04 per barrel, whilst WTI reached $111.24 per barrel, as Iraq and Kuwait reduce production and concerns mount over disruptions to shipping through the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz. The price spike could result in significantly higher fuel costs for consumers and businesses worldwide for weeks or months to come, even if the week-old conflict resolves quickly.

Moved to Tears, Denpasar Mayor Appeals to Village Chiefs for Waste Management Support

Denpasar Mayor I Gusti Ngurah Jaya Negara made an emotional appeal to village heads, customary leaders, and subdistrict chiefs to support the city's waste management efforts through village-level initiatives. The plea came as Denpasar faces investigation into the Suwung landfill (TPA) and follows a mayoral instruction mandating waste management oversight and composting infrastructure at the grassroots level. Only two villages—Kertalangu and Tegal Harum—have begun distributing composter bags to residents.

World Gold Prices Fall, Pressured by Surge in Oil and US Dollar

Global gold prices plummeted early Monday, declining 2.5 per cent to below $5,050 per troy ounce, driven by US dollar strength and expectations of sustained higher interest rates amid escalating Middle East tensions. The rise in crude oil prices above $100 per barrel fuels inflation concerns in the US, increasing the likelihood that the Federal Reserve will maintain elevated interest rates longer or raise them further. Despite recent volatility, gold has still recorded a year-to-date gain of approximately 17 per cent, supported by geopolitical uncertainty, global trade tensions, and continued central bank purchases, particularly from China's People's Bank of China.

Police Estimate 10 Victims Buried in Bantargebang Waste Landslide

A waste landslide at Bantargebang Integrated Waste Treatment Facility in Bekasi City, West Java has claimed four confirmed deaths, with police estimating approximately 10 people remain buried. The incident occurred on Sunday, 8 March 2026 at approximately 14:00 local time, and rescue operations involving multiple agencies including the military, police, and disaster management authorities continue with the use of heavy excavation equipment.

Defence Ministry Spokesman Supports TNI Alert Status 1

Indonesia's Defence Ministry has issued a statement backing the Indonesian Military's (TNI) decision to elevate alert status to Level 1, with Brigadier General Rico Ricardo clarifying that such operational decisions fall under the TNI Commander's authority and do not require Defence Ministry approval. The move has drawn criticism from civil society coalitions who argue that military mobilisation should require presidential order and parliamentary approval under the Indonesian Constitution.

Antam Gold Price Falls by Rp55,000 on Monday 9 March 2026

PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) certified gold bars registered a significant decline on Monday, 9 March 2026, dropping Rp55,000 per gram to Rp3,004,000 per gram, with buyback prices falling Rp65,000 per gram to Rp2,757,000 per gram. The domestic price weakness mirrors global market conditions, with international gold prices falling approximately 2.42% to US$5,046.79 per troy ounce, driven by profit-taking activity despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and rupiah weakness against the US dollar.

Police Recover Stolen Pickup Truck in Bogor After Undercover Operation

Police in Ciawi, Bogor recovered a stolen pickup truck after conducting an undercover operation posing as potential buyers. Officers traced the vehicle being sold without documentation on social media and successfully located it, though the suspected perpetrator fled during apprehension. The vehicle has been returned to its owner whilst the suspect remains at large on the police wanted list.

Electoral Law Revision on Hold, Beware of "Fast Track" Route Signs

Indonesia's Parliament has delayed discussions on a major Electoral Law revision despite earlier momentum, with the Chair of Commission II now targeting July-August 2026 for talks after problem inventories are completed. Electoral law experts warn that the apparent delaying tactics followed by expedited passage via "fast track" procedures could pose significant risks to democratic processes and public interests.

Rupiah Weakens Following Government's Tax Ratio Increase Initiative

The rupiah weakened against the US dollar, closing at Rp 16.919 on 6 March 2026 amid government plans to increase Indonesia's tax-to-GDP ratio. The weakness is attributed to concerns raised by Fitch Ratings, which downgraded Indonesia's outlook from stable to negative, citing low government revenue at only 9-10 percent of GDP compared to a 25.5 percent median for similarly-rated countries. The government is implementing measures including the Coretax tax administration system upgrade to address revenue shortfalls flagged by the credit rating agency.

Jakarta Provincial Government Closes Zone 4 at Bantargebang Integrated Waste Management Facility Following Landslide

Jakarta's provincial government has temporarily closed Zone 4 of the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Management Facility (TPST) following a devastating landslide on 8 March that claimed four lives. The facility normally processes between 7,300 and 7,500 tonnes of waste daily, and authorities are working to redirect waste to alternative zones whilst continuing evacuation operations and searching for additional victims.

Mojtaba Khamenei appointed as Iran's Supreme Leader, IRGC pledges loyalty

Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, has been officially appointed as Iran's Supreme Leader by the Assembly of Experts, succeeding his father Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a combined US-Israeli attack on 28 February. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has pledged full loyalty and support to the new Supreme Leader, reaffirming its commitment to protecting the values of the Islamic Revolution.

Developing Mekar Putih Port Special Economic Zone to Join National Port Network

South Kalimantan province has proposed incorporating Mekar Putih Port in Kotabaru regency into the National Port Master Plan (RIPN) 2026 as part of developing the Kotabaru Special Economic Zone (KEK). The integration is expected to provide legal certainty, attract investment, and accelerate the special economic zone's development whilst supporting the new capital Nusantara, with the province employing a risk-sharing model where the concessionaire bears infrastructure development costs.

Causes of Bantargebang Waste Mound Landslide That Killed Four People

A catastrophic landslide at the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Centre in Bekasi, West Java on 8 March 2026 resulted in four deaths and two survivors, caused by prolonged heavy rainfall. The incident occurred when waste lorries were queuing to unload cargo, with the collapse affecting five lorries and one roadside food stall, and search and rescue operations using 20 excavators continue to locate victims buried beneath the debris.

Peaceful Resolution of Bibi Kelinci Restaurant Dispute Between Nabilah O'Brien and Zendhy Kusuma

A dispute between Bibi Kelinci restaurant owner Nabilah O'Brien and a married couple over alleged food theft in Jakarta's Kemang district has been resolved through peaceful settlement, with both parties withdrawing their police reports. The case, which gained social media attention after CCTV footage of the alleged incident went viral, involved charges of theft and disputes over the dissemination of video recordings, with both parties initially becoming suspects before mediation led to reconciliation.

Mochtar Riady Donates 30 Hectares of Land for Prabowo's Housing Programme

Lippo Group founder Mochtar Riady has donated over 30 hectares of land in Cikarang, West Java, worth an estimated 4.5 to 6 trillion rupiah, to support the government's 3 million affordable housing units programme for low-income earners. The initiative will see the construction of 140,000 vertical housing units with financing spanning 30-year loan tenors through both state-owned and private banks, generating significant multiplier effects across Indonesia's economy through job creation and nationwide economic growth.

Rupiah Exchange Rate 9 March 2026: Plummeting to Rp17,000 per US Dollar, Effect of Iran Conflict

The Indonesian rupiah weakened significantly to breach the psychological level of Rp17,010 per US dollar on Monday 9 March 2026, driven by escalating Middle East tensions and surging global crude oil prices. Global financial markets have entered risk-off mode with investors avoiding emerging market assets in favour of safe havens, whilst the Jakarta Composite Index also opened down 3.95% at 7,285. Bank Indonesia is expected to intervene in the foreign exchange and bond markets to mitigate excessive volatility.

Flooding still inundates residential area in Pulo Indah Duri Kosambi, West Jakarta

Flooding reaching 60 centimetres continues to submerge residential areas in Pulo Indah Raya, Duri Kosambi, West Jakarta, with the main road inaccessible for approximately one kilometre. This is the second significant flood in 2026 for the area, with the first occurring in late January with water levels reaching one metre, leaving residents exhausted from repeated cleaning efforts and expressing hopes for government intervention.

Presidential Secretary Teddy Reveals Prabowo's Meeting with Former Aides and Security Personnel

President Prabowo Subianto held a reunion with former aides and security personnel from his time in Kostrad and Kopassus at his private residence in Hambalang, Bogor, according to Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya. The President simultaneously held five separate marathon meetings with cabinet ministers to discuss strategic domestic and international issues, including STEM campus development, university global rankings, the Middle East situation, and security preparations ahead of Eid celebrations.

Asian equities plunge as oil surges 30% amid Middle East crisis

Asian stock markets collapsed on Monday as crude oil prices spiked 30 per cent to their highest levels since 2022, driven by escalating US-Israeli military conflict with Iran and disruptions to Middle Eastern crude supplies and maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. The price surge has triggered widespread concerns about sustained inflation and prompted major central banks to reconsider monetary policy decisions, whilst equity markets globally have extended losses amid fears of reduced economic growth and potential recession if the conflict persists.

18-Year-Old Youth in Kupang Found Dead After Being Swept Away by Manusak River Current

An 18-year-old resident of Manusak Village in East Kupang District, East Nusa Tenggara, was found dead on Monday morning after being swept away by flash flooding in the Manusak River whilst attempting to cross it to return home. The youth had gone out to herd livestock on Sunday afternoon when heavy rainfall caused the river to overflow, and a search and rescue operation involving 10 personnel successfully located his body approximately 200 metres downstream early Monday morning.

Comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono to Face Further Police Questioning Over Toraja Funeral Jokes Despite Customary Sanctions

Comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono is scheduled for a second police interrogation on 9 March 2026 by the Cybercrime Investigation Directorate regarding allegations of insulting the Toraja ethnic group, despite having already undergone customary Toraja justice proceedings on 10 February 2026. During the customary trial held in Tana Toraja, Sulawesi Selatan, Pandji was required to issue a public apology and present sacrificial offerings of one pig and five chickens to the Toraja ancestors and community. Police investigators confirmed that the criminal investigation into his stand-up comedy material will proceed as scheduled.

Woman from Riau Dies After Becoming Victim of Job Scam in Cambodia

A 22-year-old woman from Lubuk Dalam, Siak Regency, Riau Province, Susi Yanti Br Sinaga, has died following intensive care treatment in Cambodia after falling victim to an illegal job recruitment scam. The victim was promised employment in Malaysia but was instead trafficked to Cambodia and travelled illegally on a passport alone, eventually succumbing to her condition at Khmer Soviet Friendship Hospital in Phnom Penh on Sunday, 8 March. The Indonesian embassy and Ministry of Migrant Worker Protection are facilitating the repatriation of her remains, whilst government officials warn citizens against accepting overseas employment offers outside official channels.

Rupiah Weakens on Monday as Global Oil Price Surge Triggers Risk-Off Sentiment

The Indonesian rupiah weakened against the US dollar on Monday, 9 March, amid a global risk-off sentiment triggered by crude oil prices surging past USD 100 per barrel. Currency analysts attribute the pressure to market concerns about the sharp rise in oil prices, which threatens to undermine global economic growth and increase inflationary pressures. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, including escalating conflicts involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, have disrupted strategic energy shipping routes and exacerbated the spike in crude prices.

Experts Call for Strengthening National Economic Resilience Through "Islamic Blended Finance"

Experts and academics have proposed strengthening Indonesia's economic resilience and self-sufficiency through Islamic Blended Finance (IBF), which integrates commercial finance with Islamic social finance, during a Focus Group Discussion organised by Syarikat Islam (SI) in East Java. The discussion yielded four key policy recommendations, including the development of Government Cooperation schemes with community fund managers, productive waqf asset guarantees, optimising the role of Islamic banks as waqf trustees, and utilising waqf assets as underlying assets for Cash Waqf Linked Sukuk (CWLS) to enable more inclusive and sustainable development financing.

List of Four Deaths in Bantargebang Waste Facility Landslide

A catastrophic landslide at the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Treatment Facility (TPST) in Bekasi killed four people, including two truck drivers, a waste picker, and a coffee vendor, on 8 March 2026. The collapse of the massive garbage mound blocked access roads, destroyed a coffee stall, and damaged several rubbish trucks, with rescue operations still ongoing using heavy excavation equipment. The incident has prompted a multi-agency response coordinated by police, military, and local disaster management authorities investigating the disaster.

Breaking News: Oil Price Surpasses US$113 per Barrel

Global oil prices have surged to US$113.68 per barrel for Brent and US$113.25 for West Texas Intermediate, marking an unprecedented rally that has accelerated dramatically since late February, driven primarily by geopolitical tensions involving Israel, the United States, and Iran. Supply disruptions from major Middle Eastern producers including Kuwait and Iraq, combined with concerns over the critical Strait of Hormuz shipping route, are fuelling the surge, with analysts projecting prices could reach US$120-US$128 for Brent if the crisis continues. The US Energy Secretary remains cautiously optimistic that tanker traffic will normalise within weeks, though energy market conditions remain unstable.

Prabowo Subianto Gathers Former Aides from Kostrad and Kopassus Eras: Military Record of the President

President Prabowo Subianto held a reunion with former aides and bodyguards from his military career spanning approximately 30 years, commemorating his service in Kostrad and Kopassus special forces units. The gathering reflected on his distinguished military record, including his command of Operation Mapenduma (1996), the establishment of Detachment 81 Counter-Terrorism, and his role in freeing hostages from separatists in Papua, which established Kopassus as one of the world's elite special forces units. His military service, which culminated in his appointment as Kostrad commander in 1998, demonstrated a commitment to national defence that continued through his tenure as Defence Minister before his election as Indonesia's eighth president.

OIKN Promotes Ecological Message at Nuzulul Quran Commemoration

The Capital Nusantara Authority (OIKN) emphasised the importance of environmental conservation during a Nuzulul Quran commemoration held at the newly completed State Mosque in Indonesia's new capital, with the theme "Quran, Ecological Trust and the Path to World Peace". The event reflected the capital's development philosophy, with 65% of IKN's 252,000 hectares designated as protected forest, whilst only 25% is allocated for urban development and 10% for food security areas.

Complete Guide to Child Immunisation Schedule 2024: Key to Protecting Your Child from Dangerous Diseases

Indonesia's 2024 child immunisation schedule, endorsed by the Ministry of Health and the Indonesian Paediatric Association (IDAI), provides comprehensive guidance for parents on vaccine administration from birth through adolescence. The schedule emphasises critical early vaccinations including Hepatitis B within 24 hours of birth, followed by polio and BCG, with intensified vaccination regimens between ages two and six months, and additional protections through adolescence including HPV vaccination for girls aged 9–14 years. Expanded immunisation programmes, including hexavalent vaccines, aim to protect children from preventable diseases whilst reducing healthcare visits and costs.

Misbakhun Urges Golkar Cadres to Support President Prabowo's Programmes

Mukhamad Misbakhun, Head of Economic Policy at Golkar's Central Leadership Council, has called on Golkar cadres to actively defend and support President Prabowo Subianto's government programmes as part of the party's coalition commitment. As the largest party in Prabowo's coalition, Golkar must ensure the success of the administration's strategic initiatives whilst maintaining internal unity and humility ahead of the 2028 elections, when legislative candidate selection will intensify.

All Flooding Points in East Jakarta Have Receded by Monday Morning

The East Jakarta Regional Disaster Management Agency confirmed that all flooding in East Jakarta had completely subsided by Monday morning (9 March 2026), with water levels returning to normal by around 3 pm on Sunday. However, the Jakarta Regional Disaster Management Agency reported that 16 neighbourhood units across West Jakarta remained inundated as of Monday morning, along with two road segments with water depths of 15-70 centimetres, following moderate to heavy rainfall from Saturday through Sunday morning.

Jakarta Stock Exchange Plummets 5%, Eight Stocks Hit Hardest

Indonesia's composite stock index (IHSG) fell sharply by 5.05% to 7,202.56 at market open on Monday, March 9, 2026, driven primarily by escalating geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran and expectations of rising US inflation. The decline triggered a broad market sell-off across sectors, with multiple stocks hitting their daily lower limits as investors shifted away from emerging market equities towards commodities and safer assets.

A Guide to Efficient Mudik Travel with Electric Vehicles: When Should You Charge?

Electric vehicle adoption for mudik (homecoming) travel is increasing as the market for electric vehicles expands and charging infrastructure improves. Drivers are advised to monitor battery levels, plan charging stops strategically using navigation and charging station apps, and drive efficiently to optimise energy consumption for safe and comfortable long-distance journeys.

Teenager Severely Beaten After Being Caught Near-Assaulting Woman in Kupang

A 16-year-old boy identified as RJS was severely beaten by residents in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, after being caught attempting to sexually assault a 37-year-old housewife named Lesly Barbier in her home whilst under the influence of alcohol. The victim raised an alarm which prompted nearby residents to apprehend the suspect, restraining him with rope, resulting in visible injuries; the case has been forwarded to local police for legal proceedings.

Understanding the Assembly of Experts: The Religious Authority Behind Iran's New Supreme Leader Appointment

Iran's Assembly of Experts, a body of 88 senior clerics, holds the constitutional mandate to select a new Supreme Leader for the Islamic Republic following Ali Khamenei's death. The process is proceeding despite recent airstrikes on the assembly's facilities, with members meeting virtually to conduct their deliberations. The appointment represents a critical juncture for Iran's political stability amid intense military and diplomatic pressure.

Oil Price Breaches US$100 per Barrel, Warning: Indonesia's Budget Deficit Could Balloon

Global oil prices have surged past US$100 per barrel due to supply disruptions from Middle Eastern conflicts, with West Texas Intermediate reaching US$108.15 and Brent crude at US$107.70. Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa warned that if oil prices remain at US$92 per barrel annually, the state budget deficit could balloon beyond the safe limit of 3.6% of GDP. The government plans to implement austerity measures, including cutting non-essential procurement budgets and deferring infrastructure projects rather than raising subsidised fuel prices.

Police Expose Forged Vehicle Documents and Warn of Dangers of Fraudulent Used Vehicles

Indonesian National Police have cracked down on a widespread syndicate manufacturing forged vehicle registration documents (STNK) and ownership certificates (BPKB), with a February operation in South Kalimantan uncovering 20,000 fake documents and 20 fraudulent vehicles. Police warn the public to carefully verify vehicle documents through official Samsat channels before purchasing used vehicles, as the criminal network has generated approximately 100 million rupiah monthly by selling stolen or repossessed vehicles with falsified paperwork. The police have outlined specific methods to identify counterfeit documents, including examining security features such as holograms, barcodes, and ultraviolet-reactive police emblems.

Military Operations Command TNI Papua Conducts Community Service in Iwaka Village, Mimika

The Indonesian Military Operations Command (Koops) TNI Papua conducted a community service initiative in Iwaka Village, Mimika Regency, Central Papua, providing free medical treatment and food aid packages to residents. The activity, led by Commander Ahmad Fikri Musmar, aimed to improve community health and welfare whilst strengthening the relationship between the military and local populations in remote areas.

Registration for National Vocational Training Extended Until 24 March

Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower has extended the registration deadline for the National Vocational Training Programme Batch 1 to 24 March 2026, offering 20,000 training slots across multiple training centres nationwide at no cost. The programme targets secondary school graduates and those aged 17 and above, providing comprehensive training in fields such as information technology, manufacturing, automotive, and tourism, along with workplace injury insurance and competency certification from the National Professional Certification Board.

The Story of a Beduk Skin Merchant: Preserving Tradition Amid the Technological Onslaught

A Bogor merchant named Eman is working to preserve the traditional beduk drum by selling goat and cow hides ahead of Eid celebrations, stocking 250–300 hides this year compared to 250 last year. The beduk, traditionally used to call Muslims to prayer and announce takbiran festivities, is increasingly being displaced by modern sound systems, eroding the cultural identity of Eid celebrations and discouraging young people from participating in this practice.

AI Increases Breast Cancer Diagnosis Accuracy to 92 Percent

Artificial Intelligence technology is transforming breast cancer diagnostics in Indonesia, increasing the accuracy of HER2 status assessment to 92 percent and improving inter-examiner consistency from 66 percent to 82 percent. The technology is particularly effective at detecting difficult-to-identify HER2-low and HER2-ultralow categories, with detection rates improving by 40 percent compared to conventional methods. Given Indonesia's projected 70 percent increase in cancer cases by 2050 if preventive and early detection efforts are not strengthened, AI integration into clinical practice is seen as essential to improving patient outcomes.

Askrindo Partners with BTN, Business Expansion Opportunity Reaches 1.5 Trillion Rupiah

PT Asuransi Kredit Indonesia (Askrindo) has entered into a Commercial Line Facility Contra Bank Guarantee agreement with PT Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) to strengthen financing and guarantee support for construction and non-construction sector businesses. The collaboration provides Askrindo with a facility of up to 1.5 trillion rupiah to support business expansion in its commercial line operations, whilst strengthening the company's risk management and governance framework.

Environment Minister: Bantargebang Tragedy Exemplifies Failure of Jakarta's Waste Management

A catastrophic landfill collapse at Bantargebang in Bekasi on 8 March 2026 killed four people, prompting Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq to declare it evidence of systemic failure in Jakarta's waste management system, which has accumulated a critical burden of 80 million tonnes over 37 years. The minister condemned the use of open dumping methods in violation of Indonesian law and vowed strict enforcement action, warning that responsible parties face 5-10 years imprisonment and fines of Rp5-10 billion. The government will redirect Bantargebang for inorganic waste processing and strengthen source separation systems to safely process Jakarta's daily waste capacity of 8,000 tonnes.

Stellantis Recruits 2,000 Engineers to Address Quality Issues

Stellantis is recruiting 2,000 new engineers as part of a comprehensive restructuring effort to address quality problems affecting its vehicle lineup. CEO Antonio Filosa attributed the quality issues to previous operational decisions and cost-cutting measures, with the company's brands experiencing significant fluctuations in J.D. Power quality rankings in recent years. The recruitment and process management improvements aim to stabilise reliability as Stellantis launches new models and introduces fresh technologies across its portfolio.

Jakarta Composite Index Plunges Nearly 5 Per Cent at Opening Trade

Indonesia's Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) suffered a significant downturn on 9 March 2026, declining 4.94 per cent to 7,210.736 points in early trading, driven by a combination of global and domestic headwinds. The decline was broad-based across all sectoral indices, with raw materials experiencing the steepest losses at 8.55 per cent, whilst major commodities stocks including Barito Pacific, Merdeka Copper Gold, and Bumi Resources fell double-digit percentages. Analysts attributed the weakness to renewed investor scrutiny of Indonesia's fiscal discipline and budgetary policies, compounded by heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which prompted a broader risk-off sentiment among global investors.

PT Pelabuhan Tanjung Priok Noncontainer Division Unloads 70,392 Tonnes of Wheat at Banten Port

PT Pelabuhan Tanjung Priok's Banten branch successfully handled the unloading of 70,392 tonnes of wheat from the MV Danae R at Ciwandan Port, supporting Indonesia's food commodity distribution chain. The operation involved multiple logistics partners and utilised specialised equipment including Gantry Luffing Cranes and approximately 70 trucks, demonstrating the port's capacity to efficiently handle strategic food commodities whilst maintaining rigorous safety and quality standards.

IHSG Collapses 4.7%, Series of Blue-Chip Stocks Become Cheap: Time to Buy?

Indonesia's composite stock index (IHSG) plummeted 4.7 per cent to 7,214.7 on Monday following a cascade of negative global and domestic sentiment, including escalating Middle East tensions and a downgrade of Indonesia's investment outlook by Fitch Ratings to negative. Despite the market turmoil, several large-cap stocks in the LQ45 index are trading at historically discounted valuations with solid operational fundamentals, presenting potential buying opportunities for investors as foreign capital may rotate towards undervalued emerging markets.

Purbaya Considers Free Nutritious Meals Efficiency, National Nutrition Agency to Follow President's Decision

The head of Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has pledged to implement any decision by President Prabowo Subianto regarding the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, following Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa's announcement that the programme could face efficiency measures if oil price spikes pressure the state budget. The government has allocated 268 trillion rupiah for the MBG programme in 2026, with 1.2 trillion rupiah earmarked for daily implementation, though non-core expenditures such as equipment and ancillary facilities remain open to evaluation.

30 Years of Loyalty: The Significance Behind Prabowo's Meeting with Former Kostrad-Kopassus Guards

President Prabowo Subianto hosted a warm reunion with his former aides and bodyguards from his military service three decades ago at his private residence in Hambalang, Bogor, demonstrating his commitment to loyalty and bonds that transcend rank and political position. The gathering underscored Prabowo's adherence to the principle that former soldiers should not be forgotten, serving as both a personal reflection on shared struggle and a soft power message to the TNI about the importance of honouring military camaraderie. The reunion exemplifies Prabowo's character of maintaining integrity and relationships built on the foundation of service, even after thirty years have passed.

Not Only Indonesia: These 9 Countries Also Restrict Social Media Access for Children and Adolescents

Indonesia has joined a growing global movement to restrict social media access for minors, introducing a new regulation to block accounts for children under 16 years old. Australia, Denmark, France, Germany, and six other countries have implemented or are considering similar restrictions on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X, with penalties for non-compliant companies reaching millions of dollars.

Threat of World War Three Looms; Indonesia at Risk of Energy Crisis

Indonesia faces heightened vulnerability to global energy supply disruptions due to its limited strategic petroleum reserves and heavy dependence on oil imports, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions including the Iran-Israel conflict affecting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Economic experts warn that simply increasing storage capacity from 20 days to three months is insufficient; instead, the nation must accelerate energy transition through electrification of public transport and reduced reliance on fuel-dependent vehicles. Establishing adequate energy reserves requires substantial fiscal commitment, with one day's fuel stockpile alone costing between Rp2.5 trillion to Rp3 trillion.

Under Mojtaba's Leadership, Iran Immediately Launches Missiles at Israel

Following the appointment of Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran's new Supreme Leader, Iran has immediately launched its first missile barrage towards Israel, targeting occupied territories. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz responded by vowing that the military would eliminate any Iranian leader appointed to succeed the late Ali Khamenei, regardless of identity or location.

Oil Price Surges, Energy Stocks Soar as Jakarta Stock Index Plummets

Energy stocks, particularly in the oil and gas sector, surged on the Jakarta Stock Exchange on Monday as crude oil prices jumped to over US$113 per barrel, driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East involving Israel, the United States, and Iran, which threaten crucial energy supply routes like the Strait of Hormuz. Major oil producers across the region, including Kuwait and Iraq, have announced production cuts, whilst market analysts project Brent crude could reach US$120-128 per barrel if the crisis continues.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth: President Trump Will Determine Iran's 'Terms of Surrender'

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has stated that the United States under President Donald Trump will set the "terms of surrender" for Iran, following escalating tensions and airstrikes in the region. In a CBS 60 Minutes interview, Hegseth clarified that surrender could take various forms but the final decision rests with Trump, not Iran. The statement comes amid conflicting narratives between Hegseth and Trump regarding responsibility for an alleged attack on an Iranian school that killed at least 168 children, with Hegseth maintaining an investigation is ongoing whilst Trump publicly blamed Iran.

Bantargebang Waste Collapse Claims Lives; Environment Minister Calls for End to Open Dumping

A waste collapse at Jakarta's Bantargebang Integrated Waste Management Facility (TPST) on 8 March killed four people, prompting Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq to demand the Jakarta provincial government cease open-dumping practices. The incident represents a systemic failure in Jakarta's waste management, which has accumulated a critical burden of 80 million tonnes over 37 years, and criminal prosecution with penalties of 5–10 years imprisonment and fines of Rp5–10 billion is threatened against those responsible.

Panic Buying of Fuel Oil in Aceh Sounds Alarm for Government

A wave of panic buying of fuel oil across Aceh provinces has prompted sharp scrutiny from the Indonesian parliament, with Commission XII member Ateng Sutisna warning that the phenomenon reveals structural weaknesses in the national energy security system. Indonesia's fuel reserves of only 21 days fall far short of the International Energy Agency standard of 90 days for oil-importing nations, leaving the country vulnerable to geopolitical and supply-chain disruptions, particularly compared to Japan's strategic reserves of 254 days.

Challenges of accessing nutritious food in Aceh Tamiang in the aftermath of disaster

Residents in Aceh Tamiang's Serba and Pematang Durian villages face significant challenges accessing nutritious food following flash flooding that damaged infrastructure and isolated communities. Whilst emergency aid of instant noodles and condensed milk has provided immediate relief, health officials warn that prolonged reliance on such high-sugar processed foods risks inadequate nutrition for children during critical growth phases.

Mount Marapi erupts Monday morning, ejecting ash column 1.6 kilometres high

Mount Marapi in West Sumatra erupted on Monday morning, ejecting an ash column reaching 1.6 kilometres high, recorded at 08:46 local time. The volcano's current alert status is Level II (Waspada), with authorities prohibiting public activity within a three-kilometre radius of the crater and warning of potential cold lava flows and ash fall hazards to nearby communities.

IHSG Plummets 5.35 Per Cent to 7,179.69

Indonesia's composite stock index (IHSG) fell 5.35 per cent to 7,179.69 on Monday morning as Asian markets weakened following a sharp surge in global oil prices triggered by escalating US-Israel-Iran conflict and concerns over energy supply disruptions. The LQ45 index of blue-chip stocks declined 2.87 per cent, whilst crude oil prices spiked significantly—WTI crude rose 20.81 per cent to $109.82 per barrel and Brent oil climbed 18.17 per cent to $109.53 per barrel—raising global inflation risks and potential economic headwinds for Indonesia.

North Jakarta Health Office Visits Residents Requiring Healthcare Services

The North Jakarta Health Office visited residents in the Koja district requiring healthcare services following reports from the community. The visits, part of the Jakarta provincial government's commitment to public health provision, involved medical examinations of two patients: one with a history of chemotherapy for eye cancer and hypertension, and another with a history of stroke alongside hypertension and diabetes. Both patients were provided with medical advice and education on healthy lifestyle habits, with no emergency conditions requiring hospitalisation identified.

Bantar Gebang Landslide Tragedy: A Stern Warning for Jakarta's Waste Management

A 50-metre-high garbage pile at Jakarta's Bantar Gebang integrated waste processing facility collapsed on 8 March, killing four people and highlighting systemic failures in the capital's waste management. Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq condemned the continued use of open dumping methods at the site, which violates waste management law and has accumulated approximately 80 million tonnes over 37 years. The government plans radical transformation of the facility to accept only inorganic waste whilst strengthening source-based sorting systems and optimising renewable fuel facilities to reach 8,000 tonnes per day processing capacity with proper safety standards.

Panasonic TVs Now Manufactured by China

Panasonic has transferred all television manufacturing, distribution and marketing operations to Chinese technology company Skyworth whilst retaining technical oversight and quality control responsibilities. The partnership marks the latest development in Panasonic's decades-long retreat from the television business, reflecting a broader trend of Japanese electronics manufacturers exiting the sector in favour of Chinese competitors.

Antam gold price plummets by Rp55,000 to Rp3.004 million per gramme on Monday

Antam gold prices fell sharply on Monday, declining by Rp55,000 to Rp3.004 million per gramme, with buyback prices dropping to Rp2.757 million per gramme. The price movement reflects broader market dynamics affecting Indonesia's precious metals market, which is subject to standardised tax regulations under Ministry of Finance Regulation No. 34/PMK.10/2017.

Jaecoo Accelerates Distribution of 10,000 J5 EV Units Before Eid 2026

Jaecoo Indonesia is accelerating the distribution of its J5 EV electric SUV following strong domestic demand, with approximately 7,000 units delivered to consumers as of March 2026. The company aims to reach 10,000 units distributed before Eid 2026, supported by recent production increases that saw nearly 3,000 units sold in February 2026 alone, with total orders reaching approximately 15,000 units.

Materialism and Sacred Space

This reflective essay examines the transformation of a traditional Islamic learning space (surau) in West Sumatra from a sacred spiritual sanctuary led by Inyiak Mursyid into a structured modern madrasah (Islamic school) following his death. The author critiques how modernist materialism has eroded the transcendent, unmeasurable dimensions of sacred spaces by reducing all value to quantifiable outputs and institutional efficiency, drawing on Durkheim's sociology of religion.

IT Emitter ATIC Plans Rights Issue at Rp560 Price, Funds Earmarked for This

PT Anabatic Technologies Tbk (ATIC), an IT company listed on the Indonesian Stock Exchange, has announced plans for a rights issue with a 4:1 ratio at approximately Rp560 per share. The funds raised will be used primarily to repay maturing bonds due on 11 July 2026, strengthen the company's financial structure, and support working capital requirements including employee salaries.

CPI and Bank Indonesia Launch Sustainable UMKM Business Model Implementation Guidebook: Mitigation Action

The Climate Policy Initiative (CPI) and Bank Indonesia have launched a comprehensive guidebook on implementing sustainable business models for micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM), designed to facilitate their transition towards environmentally and socially responsible practices. The guidebook builds upon Bank Indonesia's 2024 Green UMKM Development Guidelines with expanded cross-sectoral coverage, practical implementation frameworks, and sustainability indicators aligned with green financing taxonomy. The initiative aims to enhance UMKM competitiveness, expand access to sustainable financing, and enable small businesses to respond to growing market demand for environmentally friendly and sustainable products and services.

Female Police Officer in NTT Accused of Stealing Customer's Salon Money

A female police officer (Brigadir YM) stationed at Rote Ndao Police Precinct in East Nusa Tenggara has been accused of stealing 1.1 million rupiah from a salon customer's handbag whilst the victim was in the toilet. The officer has allegedly confessed to the theft during questioning, and the stolen money has been seized as evidence; however, she has not yet been detained whilst the case is referred to provincial police headquarters to determine whether disciplinary or ethics code violations apply.

This Is Why The IHSG Index Has Plummeted 5.2% To The 7,156 Level

Indonesia's Composite Stock Index (IHSG) crashed 5.2% to 7,156 on Monday, marking its worst week in recent months with a near 8% decline, driven by three primary factors: escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East triggering global capital flight to safer assets, concerns over Indonesia's declining weight in MSCI indices and potential downgrade from emerging to frontier market status, and rising sovereign credit risk as international rating agencies signal caution with more negative outlooks. Additional pressures include surging global oil prices from the Iran-Israel-US conflict and continued rupiah weakness against the dollar, with analysts predicting further downward pressure on the index.

Philippines Implements Four-Day Working Week Amid Middle East Conflict Energy Crisis

The Philippine government is implementing a four-day working week for executive branch offices beginning 9 March 2026 as a temporary measure to conserve energy amid global supply disruptions and price volatility resulting from Middle East tensions. The policy excludes emergency and essential services, with individual government agencies required to establish internal guidelines for monitoring attendance and performance standards. The Philippines Chamber of Commerce and Industry has cautioned that any private sector adoption of the four-day week should be carefully adapted to individual industry operational needs.

Nostalgia Gathering: President Prabowo Brings Together Former Aides from Kostrad-Kopassus After 30 Years

President Prabowo Subianto held a warm reunion with former aides and security personnel who served alongside him during his military service in the elite Kostrad and Kopassus units approximately 30 years ago. The gathering at Prabowo's private residence in Hambalang demonstrated his continued loyalty to those who served with him, with several former aides now pursuing diverse career paths, some remaining as active TNI personnel whilst others have retired and found employment at Prabowo's companies. The event exemplified Prabowo's leadership character, emphasising loyalty and familial bonds forged during his military career.

Notes from the Acquittal of Delpedro et al.: Authorities Must Not Arbitrarily Arrest and Criminalise

Four defendants in an alleged incitement case related to August 2025 unrest have been acquitted, raising important questions about law enforcement procedures in Indonesia. Legal experts have warned that authorities should only proceed with arrests and prosecutions when evidence is sufficiently strong, and that the state has an obligation to restore the reputations and provide compensation for those ultimately acquitted by courts.

Police Question Comedian Pandji in Toraja Ethnic Joke Case Today

Investigators from Indonesia's National Police Cyber Crimes Division scheduled questioning of comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono on Monday, 9 March 2026, regarding allegations of hate speech and ethnic insults against the Toraja people. Pandji has already undergone customary Toraja court proceedings where he was sanctioned with a formal apology to ancestors and payment of livestock, and authorities are considering how traditional law intersects with national criminal law in determining whether to press formal charges.

IHSG weakens following Asian market decline amid global oil price surge

Indonesia's Composite Stock Index (IHSG) fell 2.79 per cent on Monday, tracking widespread Asian market weakness as geopolitical tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran sent crude oil prices surging by over 20 per cent. Market volatility is expected to remain elevated throughout the week, with additional downside consolidation to 7,335 possible, while rising global energy costs pose risks to inflation and economic growth.

Gold Bullion Banking Business Remains Slow, OJK Reveals Reasons

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has revealed that only PT Pegadaian and PT Bank Syariah Indonesia have obtained licences to operate bullion banking businesses in the past year, with no other financial institutions having applied. The regulator cited high capital requirements of at least 14 trillion rupiah and necessary supporting infrastructure as barriers to entry, though it emphasised that opportunities remain open for institutions meeting regulatory standards.

Antam Gold Price Plummets by Rp55,000 Today

Antam gold prices fell significantly on Monday, 9 March 2026, dropping Rp55,000 to Rp3,004,000 per gram, reversing gains from the previous week. The decline reflects broader global gold weakness, with international prices falling 1.7% to US$5,083.79 per troy ounce amid Middle Eastern tensions, though gold remains down 2.03% weekly after four consecutive weeks of gains.

Extreme Weather Could Disrupt Trains, Planes and Ferries During Eid Holiday Travel 2026

Heavy rainfall poses a significant risk to multiple transport modes during Indonesia's 2026 Eid holiday exodus, potentially disrupting train, airline and ferry operations as well as road conditions. Transport analyst Deddy Herlambang highlighted that inadequate infrastructure maintenance, particularly flood-prone rail tracks and damaged roads, will compound weather-related challenges. The government has implemented policies to encourage travellers to use public transport during the peak travel period.

IHSG Opens Down 2.79%, Asian Markets and Wall Street Weaken amid Oil Price Threats

Indonesia's composite index IHSG opened sharply lower by 2.79% at 7,374 points on Monday 9 March 2026, following weakness across Asian stock markets and Wall Street amid escalating Middle Eastern tensions and soaring crude oil prices. BNI Securities analysts predict potential rebound to 7,650, contingent on breaking above 7,700 resistance levels, with support identified at 7,400-7,480. The selloff reflects broad investor concern over prolonged Middle East conflict, Iranian military actions, and crude oil surging to US$91 per barrel as US-Israel military operations threaten Hormuz Strait shipping routes.

Macron calls for diplomatic solution amid tensions over Iran

French President Emmanuel Macron has called for diplomatic solutions to end escalation and maintain peace following tensions with Iran, reiterating France's concerns about Iran's nuclear and ballistic programmes. Macron urged Iran to guarantee freedom of navigation by ending its de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz, and held separate telephone discussions with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and US President Donald Trump on Sunday.

Eid Holiday Travellers Can Utilise Contraflow, But Remain Vigilant

The Indonesian government implements traffic management schemes, including contraflow systems, during the Eid holiday exodus to ease congestion on major routes such as the Trans-Java toll road. Whilst contraflow—which temporarily redirects lanes from less-congested directions to accommodate heavy traffic—helps facilitate traffic flow, road safety experts warn that drivers must exercise heightened caution as such lanes carry increased collision risks due to proximity to oncoming traffic.

Central Government Holiday Allowance for Civil Servants Reaches Rp3 Trillion, Purbaya: If Not Requested, Not Yet Disbursed

The Indonesian Ministry of Finance has begun disbursing Rp3 trillion in holiday allowances (THR) to central government civil servants as of 6 March 2026, covering approximately 631,000 employees out of 2.2 million total ASN. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated that disbursement depends on requests from individual institutions, with the government having allocated Rp55 trillion (a 10% increase from the previous year) to cover 2.4 million central government employees, 4.3 million regional civil servants, and 3.8 million pensioners.

Bogor Residents Can Deposit Vehicles at Nearest Police Station During Mudik Holiday

The Bogor City Police have announced that residents departing for their hometowns during the Lebaran holiday period can safely deposit their personal vehicles at local police stations, including district and city-level offices. Additionally, police will conduct routine patrols every 30 minutes to ensure the security of residents' homes and maintain public order during the exodus period.

Musim Mas Strengthens Women's Empowerment for Operational and Community Sustainability

Musim Mas, a major palm oil company, has reinforced its commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment as a core business strategy outlined in its 2026–2030 Sustainability Roadmap. The company operates a Gender Committee since 2008 and has expanded its Women Smallholders Program across Riau, which has already trained over 500 women in family health, financial literacy, and business development, with women's business groups achieving average assets of Rp 80 million each. These initiatives are designed to create a more inclusive palm oil industry whilst supporting women's economic and social capacity at both operational and community levels.

Bantargebang Waste Dump Landslide Kills Four People

A major landslide at Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Facility in Bekasi, West Java, killed four people on 9 March after prolonged heavy rain destabilised the waste pile. The landslide struck whilst garbage trucks were unloading, burying five trucks and a roadside shop; rescue teams recovered four bodies and two survivors from the debris.

Strengthening Indonesia Geopark Governance Ahead of UNESCO Revalidation 2026

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism is preparing geopark managers and stakeholders for UNESCO Global Geopark revalidation and validation processes scheduled for 2026. Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana emphasised that geopark status represents more than international recognition, reflecting Indonesia's commitment to managing geological heritage, culture, and biodiversity sustainably whilst improving communities' wellbeing. The ministry aims to maintain green card status for registered geoparks and secure UNESCO recognition for aspiring geoparks in Bojonegoro and Ranah Minang Silokek.

Deputy Minister of Agriculture Sudaryono: Government Prepares Free Seeds to Support Maize Self-Sufficiency

The Indonesian government is providing free maize seeds for up to 1 million hectares of farmland to accelerate national maize production and achieve self-sufficiency, announced Deputy Minister of Agriculture Sudaryono at a coordinated maize planting event in South Sumatra. The government is strengthening agricultural development through four key pillars: seed availability, irrigation infrastructure (with Rp 12 trillion budgeted for 2025), subsidised fertiliser distribution, and guaranteed minimum purchase prices for farmers. The programme aims to expand nationwide maize cultivation to over 1 million hectares, with initial planting already exceeding 600,000 hectares and projected output of 3.9 to 4 million tonnes.

Implementation of Social Media Restrictions for Children Requires Parental and School Oversight

Deputy Chairman of Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Dave Laksono, has stressed that the effectiveness of restricting social media for children depends on collaboration among parents, schools, the government, and digital platforms. The government's new policy restricts social media use for children under 16 years old and is backed by legal provisions under the Electronic Information and Transactions Law (UU ITE), providing a clear legal foundation for enforcement against digital platform companies.

Rupiah Weakens as US Dollar Approaches Rp17,000

The Indonesian rupiah depreciated 0.47% to Rp16,980 per US dollar at the start of trading on Monday 9 March 2026, as the US dollar index strengthened significantly to 99.655 amid global geopolitical tensions. The weakness reflects increased demand for safe-haven assets, particularly as oil prices surpass US$100 per barrel due to Middle East conflicts, and expectations that the Federal Reserve may delay interest rate cuts.

Alert Level 1: Oil Prices Forecast to Reach US$128 per Barrel

Global oil prices are expected to continue their sharp rally amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, with technical analysts projecting Brent Crude could surge to US$120–US$128 per barrel in the near term. The price surge is driven by Israel and US military actions against Iran, which analysts warn could trigger an energy crisis more severe than 2022. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) is similarly forecast to rise towards its 2022 peak of US$130.50 per barrel, with some aggressive projections reaching as high as US$181–US$204 per barrel if regional tensions worsen.

DKI Restricts Waste Shipments Following TPST Bantargebang Landslide, Beware of Accumulation

Following a fatal landslide at the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Facility (TPST) in Bekasi on 8 March that claimed four lives, the DKI Jakarta provincial government has temporarily suspended waste shipments to the site whilst stabilisation work is undertaken. The Jakarta Environmental Services Department has prioritised worker safety and victim evacuation, whilst activating emergency operations and opening temporary disposal points to maintain the city's waste management services.

Hundreds of Jakarta Residents Still Displaced by Flood Impact

Jakarta's disaster management agency reported that 439 residents remain displaced across four subdistricts in West Jakarta following severe flooding on 7-8 March 2026 caused by heavy rainfall. As of 9 March, at least 16 housing blocks and 2 roads remained inundated with water depths ranging from 30 to 90 centimetres, concentrated primarily in Rawa Buaya where 7 residential blocks were still submerged. Authorities are coordinating drainage operations and water channel maintenance efforts, with the goal of resolving waterlogged areas rapidly whilst urging residents to remain vigilant about potential further inundation.

Oil Prices Surge; Trump: Small Price for Global Peace

Crude oil prices surged above $100 per barrel on Monday amid escalating Middle Eastern tensions and concerns over disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz, which handles roughly one-fifth of global oil trade. President Trump dismissed the spike as temporary and a minor cost for achieving global security, claiming prices will fall rapidly once Iran's nuclear threat is resolved, whilst energy analysts warn prices could reach $150 per barrel by late March depending on developments in the region.

Indonesia's Digital Landscape Evolves: Regulation, Investment and Innovation Drive Growth

Indonesia's digital economy is maturing through parallel advances in regulation, infrastructure investment, and technology innovation, including new youth social media safeguards, healthcare fintech expansion, and broadband financing. Global and regional investors are backing key sectors—from healthcare and connectivity to electric mobility and AI-driven retail platforms—whilst regulators simultaneously strengthen market oversight through enforcement actions against stock manipulation. These developments underscore investor confidence in Indonesia's digital foundations despite broader economic headwinds, positioning the country as a major growth market for Southeast Asian tech and financial services.

Extreme Weather Threatens 2026 Lebaran Holiday Travel, Roads and Rail Lines at Risk

Extreme weather and heavy rainfall pose significant challenges to Indonesia's 2026 Lebaran holiday travel period, threatening damage to road infrastructure and rail lines through flooding. Transport expert Deddy Herlambang warns that road surfaces are vulnerable to accelerated deterioration and railway tracks face flooding risks, whilst airlines and maritime services may also experience disruptions. The government has introduced discount tariffs for public transport and free bus programmes to encourage citizens to shift away from private vehicles and reduce accident rates during the peak travel season.

Toyota In No Rush to Launch Affordable Electric Vehicle in Indonesia

Toyota is taking a measured approach to launching affordable electric vehicles in Indonesia, prioritising gradual technology rollout and consumer needs over rushing to market like competitors. The company emphasises that new technology introductions must deliver broader economic benefits, particularly through manufacturing's multiplier effects on employment and purchasing power, whilst leveraging its multi-pathway electrification strategy including hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and battery electric vehicles.

Your Five-Year-Old Child Won't Need to Seek Employment in the Future, Says Vinod Khosla

Vinod Khosla, a billionaire investor and early backer of OpenAI, has predicted that artificial intelligence will ultimately eliminate 80 per cent of current human jobs, meaning children aged five today may never need to work as adults. Khosla envisions a transitional period where AI systems learn from human professionals before operating autonomously, after which education will be free and human society will prioritise creativity and family over employment. He warns that this mass automation will trigger severe deflation worth approximately $15 trillion from US GDP, rendering traditional economic metrics obsolete.

Finance Minister Purbaya Initially Hesitant to Travel Abroad Before Indonesia Achieves 6% Economic Growth

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has acknowledged that Fitch Ratings' downgrade of Indonesia's debt outlook to negative may be partly due to his recent appointment and lack of engagement with foreign investors. Initially committed to refraining from overseas travel until Indonesia's economy reached 6% growth, he has now decided to attend the IMF-World Bank meetings in Washington DC in April 2026 to demonstrate the competence of Indonesia's Finance Ministry.

Electric Vehicle Charging Stations on Mudik Routes for Eid 2026: Complete List of Public EV Charging Stations Trans Java & Sumatra

The Indonesian government through PT PLN (Persero) has deployed over 1,500 public electric vehicle charging stations (SPKLU) along major mudik (homecoming) routes for Eid 2026, particularly on the Trans Java and Trans Sumatra corridors. The utility company has upgraded charging capacity at major rest areas to 180 kW Ultra Fast Charging, enabling drivers to charge from 20% to 80% in 10-20 minutes, with dedicated SPKLU Centers providing multiple simultaneous charging slots and amenities.

Andra Soni Emphasises Free School Programme to Address Dropout Crisis

Banten Governor Andra Soni has reaffirmed that the Free School Programme is a top priority for his administration, designed to improve access to education for families unable to afford school fees. The initiative has already benefited 60,705 students across 801 private schools in Banten's 2025-2026 academic year, whilst the provincial government has also established four People's Schools for disadvantaged children. The governor emphasised that education and health are inseparable pillars for developing human resources in the region.

Heavy Rain Threatens 2026 Homecoming Rush, Observer Warns Roads Could Deteriorate Rapidly

Transport observer Deddy Herlambang has cautioned that high rainfall during the 2026 Lebaran homecoming period poses significant risks to road infrastructure and travel conditions, potentially accelerating damage to poorly maintained highways. Beyond road networks, adverse weather could also impact railway, aviation, and maritime transport services, though government-subsidised public transport fares and free bus services from local and private operators may encourage people to use mass transit rather than private vehicles, potentially reducing accident rates.

Vehicle Document Forgery Uncovered: Police Urge Caution When Purchasing Second-Hand Vehicles

Indonesian police have exposed a large-scale syndicate forging vehicle registration documents (STNK) and ownership books (BPKB) operating across multiple provinces, resulting in the seizure of nearly 20,000 forged documents and 20 vehicles of questionable origin. Six suspects have been arrested for roles ranging from document production to marketing, with the criminal network allegedly earning up to 100 million rupiah monthly by purchasing vehicles with credit problems and reselling them with falsified documents via social media. Police have advised the public to verify vehicle documents through official Samsat offices before purchasing second-hand vehicles.

Asian Stock Markets Collapse as Global Oil Prices Surge Sharply

Asian stock markets across Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Australia experienced sharp declines on 9 March 2026 as crude oil prices surged to their highest levels since 2022, reaching over US$100 per barrel following production cuts by Middle Eastern oil producers and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Japan's Nikkei 225 fell 6.05 per cent, while South Korea's Kospi dropped 6.5 per cent, prompting a trading halt; major semiconductor and technology stocks bore the brunt of the selling pressure. US President Donald Trump characterised the oil price increase as temporary and justified as a necessary cost for addressing Iran's nuclear threat.

Youth in Kupang Missing After Being Swept Away by Floodwaters While Returning from Herding Cattle

An 18-year-old youth named Dominigus De Jesus Frias went missing on Sunday afternoon in the Manusak River in East Kupang District, East Nusa Tenggara, after being swept away by floodwaters whilst returning home from herding cattle. A combined search and rescue operation involving nine personnel and multiple government agencies has been launched, with searches continuing into Monday morning across an expanded area of the river.

Three Transjakarta routes diverted due to flooding on Monday morning

PT Transjakarta diverted three bus routes on Monday morning due to flooding and infrastructure damage at multiple points along the busway network in Jakarta. Several bus stops were temporarily closed, whilst one microbus service was halted entirely due to accumulated water and debris blocking the routes.

Flooding in Duri Kosambi, West Jakarta Persists Since Saturday as Infants and Pregnant Women Evacuated

Severe flooding has inundated residential areas along Jalan Pulo Indah Raya in Duri Kosambi, West Jakarta since Saturday 7 March 2026, with water levels reaching 60-80 centimetres and cutting off approximately 1 kilometre of main road access. Authorities have evacuated families with infants and pregnant women using rubber boats, whilst residents attribute the prolonged inundation to overflow from nearby rivers and reservoirs rather than rainfall alone. This marks the second major flood event in 2026 for the area, with residents increasingly concerned about repeated flood cycles affecting their homes and demanding urgent government intervention.

IHSG Pressure Continues as Foreign Investors Sell; Stock Recommendations for Today

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell 1.62% to 7,585.69 on Friday amid broad-based sectoral weakness and foreign investor selling of Rp568.69 billion, while global market weakness and geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran added pressure. Positive corporate earnings from PT Petrosea, which tripled net profit to US$35 million in 2025, offered some support, whilst PT Bakrie & Brothers announced a rights issue of 86.7 billion shares aimed at debt repayment.

Interior Ministry Instruction: All Regional Heads on Alert During 14-28 March Period

Interior Minister Tito Karnavian has instructed all regional heads and deputy regional heads to remain on alert and stay in their respective regions during the period from one week before to one week after Eid al-Fitr 2026 (14-28 March). The directive, issued via official circular, requires regional leaders to postpone foreign travel except for essential activities directed by the President or medical purposes, ensuring local governments remain focused on strategic agendas during the holiday period including security, traffic management, inflation control, and Eid celebration preparations.

Flood Submerges SDN 5 Banjar Buleleng, Library and Classrooms Filled with Silt

A flash flood in Banjar Village, Buleleng Regency, Bali, on 6 March devastated SDN 5 Banjar primary school, with water levels reaching 2.5 metres and leaving classrooms and the library buried under 0.5 metres of silt. Hundreds of library books were damaged along with school furniture and equipment, whilst the regional education office has commenced intensive coordination with disaster management authorities to rapidly restore the school and allow students to resume classes safely.

Economists Meet Jusuf Kalla to Discuss Impact of US-Iran Conflict

Several prominent Indonesian economists met with former Vice President Jusuf Kalla in Jakarta to discuss the economic implications of the US-Iran conflict on Indonesia, particularly focusing on rising energy prices and economic slowdown. The discussion highlighted concerns about fiscal space constraints, with Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa proposing budget cuts to prevent the fiscal deficit from exceeding three percent of GDP, including potential reductions to the free nutritious meals programme (MBG).

Culture Minister Delivers Post-Flood Recovery Assistance in Several Aceh Regions

Indonesia's Culture Minister Fadli Zon visited flood-affected areas in Aceh province to deliver recovery assistance to residents near the Banuaraja Palace Site and Inspirasi Bangsa School, and to inspect temporary shelters for displaced persons. The Ministry of Culture will continue supporting the recovery of cultural heritage sites and surrounding communities through preservation programmes and community empowerment initiatives, working in coordination with local and regional authorities.

Indonesia Drives Global Forest Management Action at FCLP Meeting in Kenya

Indonesia is pushing for concrete forest management action at the Forest & Climate Leaders' Partnership (FCLP) All-Member Meeting in Nairobi, Kenya, emphasising the need to accelerate implementation towards 2030 targets. The country is leveraging its tropical forest management experience and the FOLU Net Sink 2030 approach to contribute to global collaboration on climate change mitigation, whilst also promoting best practices in sustainable forestry governance and green construction initiatives.

KOKA Signs IDR 37.19 Billion CSPA on 6 March

PT Koka Indonesia Tbk signed a Conditional Share Purchase Agreement (CSPA) valued at IDR 37.19 billion on 6 March 2026, following a Memorandum of Understanding executed in September 2025. The transaction, involving PT Liqun Investments Indonesia as buyer and four sellers including Gao Jing, Sun Ling, Gao Jinfeng, and PT Kreatif Konstruksi Indonesia, is intended to expand the company's business network and strengthen infrastructure construction sector development. The completion remains subject to fulfilling several conditions outlined in the CSPA and applicable regulatory requirements.

Five Links to Monitor Mudik Routes via CCTV Online

With the Eid mudik season approaching, the Ministry of Transportation and regional authorities have made real-time CCTV traffic monitoring systems available online to help travellers avoid congestion. Five platforms—including the Ministry's mudik portal, local government websites, Lewatmana.com, the Travoy app, and the Tol Kita application—provide live access to traffic cameras across major routes in Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya, and national tollways.

Bantargebang Waste Processing Facility in Bekasi Collapses; Multiple Trucks and Food Stalls Still Buried Under Waste

The Integrated Waste Processing Facility (TPST) Bantargebang in Bekasi, West Java, experienced a catastrophic collapse on 8 March 2026, killing three people—two female food stall owners and a truck driver. Search and rescue operations are ongoing to locate additional victims and retrieve multiple garbage trucks buried under the debris, with authorities attributing the incident to heavy rainfall destabilising the critically high waste pile.

Environment Minister: Bantargebang waste landslide an urgent alarm for waste management reforms

Indonesia's Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq has warned that the waste landslide at Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Site that claimed four lives on 8 March represents a critical failure of Jakarta's waste management system and demands immediate cessation of open dumping practices. The Minister has initiated comprehensive investigations and strict law enforcement action, noting that the incident violates Law No. 18 of 2008 and reflects a pattern of systemic failures at the facility that has claimed multiple lives since 2003. The Environment Ministry previously issued investigation notices for high-risk waste management sites including Bantargebang on 2 March 2026.

US Diplomats Ordered to Leave Saudi Arabia Immediately

The US State Department has ordered American diplomats serving in Saudi Arabia to depart the country immediately, marking the highest level of evacuation (mandatory departure) in response to escalating Middle Eastern security risks. The order follows a US-Israeli military strike against Iran on 28 February and subsequent Iranian retaliatory attacks, prompting Washington to recognise significantly heightened dangers in the region for American personnel and civilians.

Caution: 15 Severe Traffic Congestion Points During 2026 Eid Exodus in West Java, Here Are the Alternative Routes

The government of West Java is preparing for the 2026 Eid exodus, with projections indicating peak traffic on Wednesday, 18 March 2026 (three days before Eid) involving hundreds of thousands of vehicles at major toll gates. Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi and regional authorities have identified 15 congestion hotspots and are promoting the South Coast Route (Pansela) as an alternative, whilst advocating use of newly connected toll roads including the Bocimi Toll Section 3 and Cisumdawu Toll Road to manage traffic flow.

Latest! LPG Prices for 3 kg, 5.5 kg-12 kg at Agents and Filling Stations, 9 March 2026

Indonesia plans to increase LPG imports from the United States to 70% of total supply, up from the current 57%, as part of a bilateral trade agreement, according to Pertamina's Chief Executive Simon Aloysius Mantiri. The US$15 billion energy import initiative aims to diversify supply sources and secure competitive pricing whilst addressing Indonesia's natural production decline in upstream oil and gas. Current retail LPG prices remain stable, with subsidised 3 kg cylinders at Rp19,000 and non-subsidised 5.5 kg and 12 kg cylinders ranging from Rp90,000 to Rp249,000 depending on region.

Indonesian Military Clarifies Intent Behind Implementing Alert Level 1 in Response to Middle East Conflict

The Indonesian Military (TNI) Commander General Agus Subiyanto has ordered all units to implement Alert Level 1 to anticipate potential domestic impacts from the Middle East conflict. The measure, mandated under TNI law, represents standard operational readiness to protect the nation against both international and domestic threats, with the TNI emphasizing its responsibility to maintain preparedness through routine operational checks.

Indonesia Government Warns of Higher Transmission Risk Before Eid Travel

Indonesia's Ministry of Health has warned of heightened measles transmission risks ahead of Eid al-Fitr travel, with 8,372 confirmed cases and six deaths recorded as of February 2026, spread across 11 provinces. The government is accelerating immunization campaigns targeting children aged 9-59 months in 102 regencies and cities, whilst urging the public to maintain preventive measures such as vaccination completion, hand hygiene, and mask-wearing during the busy holiday period. The warning underscores the critical importance of vaccination and early symptom detection to prevent localised outbreaks from escalating into a broader national health crisis during one of Indonesia's largest annual population movements.

When women are empowered, family economies strengthen with PNM

Indonesia's PNM Mekaar programme has served over 22.9 million disadvantaged women, with women comprising 64.5 per cent of UMKM operators and contributing significantly to national GDP. Beyond access to capital, the programme provides ongoing mentorship, business training, and capacity development that strengthens family economies and fosters women's leadership within families and communities. Research shows 71.86 per cent of PNM Mekaar customers participate in household financial decisions, and the initiative has received recognition for its inclusive, Sharia-compliant financing approach.

When Flooding and Damaged Roads Test the 2026 Eid Exodus Journey

As Indonesia prepares for the 2026 Eid holiday exodus, heavy rainfall and damaged infrastructure pose significant challenges to the annual mass migration homeward. Transport observers warn that extreme weather will disrupt multiple transport modes—railways requiring extra maintenance, aviation and maritime services dependent on favourable conditions—with Jakarta already experiencing flooding affecting 16 neighbourhoods and two road sections, making travel plans uncertain for millions of Indonesians.

Indonesia reaffirms commitment to implementation of mandatory halal certification at WTO STC

Indonesia has reaffirmed its commitment to implementing mandatory halal certification for products according to a schedule set for October 2026, with no plans for further extensions beyond the current transition period that was extended from October 2024. The Indonesian Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) clarified that products containing non-halal materials can still be imported and sold in Indonesia if clearly labelled, and that foreign halal certification recognition operates on a bilateral basis with reciprocal principles.

Singapore and Japan Relations: Sim Ann Says Deeper Cooperation Needs Sensitive Handling of Wartime Issues

Singapore's Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sim Ann has affirmed that a larger regional role for Japan would benefit Asia, but only if historical grievances from the Second World War are addressed with care and sensitivity to maintain regional trust. She emphasised that ASEAN Plus Three, comprising ASEAN and Northeast Asian partners China, South Korea, and Japan, remains central to Singapore's foreign policy and accounted for 28 per cent of global final demand in 2022, underscoring the economic and diplomatic importance of regional cooperation. Sim argued that reconciliation on wartime issues would strengthen Japan's position to contribute more effectively to regional stability and an open, inclusive architecture in an increasingly multipolar world.

Long-distance Train Occupancy Reaches 58 Per Cent Ahead of Lebaran

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has sold 625,231 tickets for long-distance trains during the 2026 Lebaran travel period (11 March to 1 April), achieving a 58 per cent occupancy rate with 423,965 seats still available. Peak travel dates such as 18–20 March are nearly at capacity, whilst tickets for 23 March to 1 April remain relatively abundant. The company is offering promotional discounts of up to 30 per cent for tickets purchased on 9 March for departures between 9–20 March.

Death toll from Bantargebang rubbish mountain collapse rises to four

The death toll from a waste pile collapse at the Bantargebang Final Disposal Site (TPA) in Bekasi, West Java, has risen to four, with victims including traders, truck drivers, and waste pickers. Police suspect up to ten people may be buried in the collapse, which occurred at the facility's Zone 4C on Sunday, with ongoing rescue operations utilising heavy machinery.

Batam Tugboat Rescue: Crew Member Found Alive After Three Days Inside Capsized Vessel

A crew member, Yusuf Tangkil, was discovered alive inside the engine room of the capsized tugboat TB ASL Mega near Batam on 8 March after surviving three days in an air pocket. The multi-agency search operation recovered all five crew members, with two survivors and three fatalities, highlighting the critical importance of coordinated maritime emergency response and safety protocols in Indonesia's busy industrial waters.

Beware of Rating Risks and Middle East Conflict, Here is Trading Strategy as IHSG Wavers

Indonesia's Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) closed at 7,585 on 6 March 2026, down 7.89 per cent week-on-week, driven by a combination of global and domestic pressures including Fitch Ratings' decision to revise Indonesia's debt outlook from stable to negative. Foreign investor outflows of approximately Rp 2.5 trillion were recorded as markets grew concerned about fiscal discipline and the government's expansionary economic policies, which prompted analysts to project the index would trade within a 7,400-7,900 range in the following week.

Guitarist Zendhy Kusuma Defends Himself Over Bibi Kelinci Restaurant Incident: Admits to Not Paying Directly, but Denies Theft

Guitarist Zendhy Kusuma has broken his silence on a dispute at Jakarta's Bibi Kelinci restaurant where he and his wife left without immediately paying for their meal, acknowledging he carried away 11 dishes and 3 drinks but denying theft accusations. Both Zendhy and restaurant owner Nabilah O'Brien have filed criminal complaints against each other, with him charged with theft and her charged with defamation after she uploaded CCTV footage of the incident. According to Zendhy's account, he entered the restaurant around 22:00, waited nearly two hours for his order that had not even been prepared, and left without paying immediately in order to lodge a complaint with the restaurant owner.

Three Major Challenges Threaten IHSG; Can It Return to 8000?

Indonesia's Composite Stock Index (IHSG) faces three significant headwinds: escalating global geopolitical tensions that are triggering capital outflows from emerging markets, concerns about Indonesia's declining weight in MSCI indices with potential downgrade to frontier market status, and heightened sovereign credit risk as international rating agencies adopt more negative outlooks on Indonesian government debt. These combined pressures have caused the IHSG to plunge nearly 8% in a week, testing the 7500 level, with recovery to 8000 appearing increasingly challenged in the near to medium term.

Disaster Rehabilitation Task Force Accelerates Social and Economic Recovery for Affected Communities

Indonesia's Acceleration of Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force (Satgas PRR) has announced comprehensive social and economic recovery programmes for communities affected by disasters in Aceh, North Sumatera, and West Sumatera. The government has allocated multiple assistance schemes including temporary and permanent housing, household goods worth Rp3 million per family, economic stimulus of Rp5 million per family, and daily food allowances of Rp15,000 per person for three months. Social Minister Saifullah Yusuf emphasised that accurate victim data collection by local governments in coordination with the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is critical to ensuring aid reaches those most in need.

'Wit Kawit' Wins Ogoh-Ogoh Grand Prize at Kasanga Festival 2026

A traditional ogoh-ogoh sculpture titled 'Wit Kawit', featuring a unique Burung Gaga (mythical bird) character, has won first prize at the Kasanga Festival 2026 competition in Bali. The winning entry by Sekaa Teruna Taruna Dharma Castra impressed judges with its innovative mechanical construction and accompanying performance, drawing significant visitor attention during the exhibition and paving the way for future annual festivals.

Landslide at Bantargebang Rubbish Mountain Claims Lives

A landslide at zone 4 of the Bantargebang final waste disposal site in Bekasi, West Java, on 8 February 2026 claimed three lives. The victims, identified as two food stall owners and one truck driver, were buried when the rubbish heap collapsed, with waste-laden trucks and makeshift shops also engulfed in the incident.

Clearing the blemish on the face of national social assistance data

Indonesia's Social Welfare Ministry is implementing a new consolidated database system (DTSEN) to replace the previous unified social welfare data system (DTKS) in an effort to improve the targeting and distribution of social assistance programmes. The government allocates over 500 trillion rupiah annually across major programmes including the Family Hope Programme and Non-Cash Food Assistance, but investigations have revealed significant misuse including online gambling participants and ineligible recipients including state enterprise employees and medical professionals still receiving benefits.

Indonesian Military Chief Issues Alert Order Amid Middle East Conflict Escalation

Indonesia's Military Chief General Agus Subiyanto has issued a Level 1 alert order across all armed forces in response to escalating tensions in the Middle East, specifically the Iran-US-Israel conflict. The directive, outlined in seven instructions, mandates enhanced patrols at strategic facilities, 24-hour air surveillance, mapping and evacuation planning for Indonesian citizens in affected regions, and domestic threat detection to prevent destabilisation. The alert represents the military's operational readiness protocol to protect national security and territorial integrity amid regional instability.

Batam Solar Export Delay: Financing Rules Threaten Indonesia-Singapore Green Power Plan

Indonesia's multi-billion-dollar plan to export solar power from Batam to Singapore is facing a critical financing obstacle due to Clause 37 of its 2021 electricity regulation, which requires renewable export permits to be reviewed every five years, creating long-term funding uncertainty for projects needing 20–25 year revenue certainty. Banks are reluctant to fund projects with permit risk, whilst Singapore has already approved up to 3.4GW of imports; unless Indonesia resolves this regulatory constraint, the projects risk missing their early 2028 operational deadline and damaging Indonesia's investment credibility. The stall threatens both nations' strategic objectives: Indonesia's solar industry scaling and export revenues, and Singapore's low-carbon electricity supply for decarbonisation.

Bogor Regency Increases Free Bus Fleet for Exodus Programme Following Overwhelming Registration

Bogor Regency has added 13 buses to its free exodus programme after initial registration exceeded capacity by nearly 1,700 participants. The programme, scheduled to depart on 18 March 2026 from Pakansari Stadium, now accommodates an additional cohort of previously unregistered applicants, with return journey buses planned for 26 March. The initiative serves multiple destinations including Tasikmalaya, Solo, Semarang, Yogyakarta, and Surabaya.

Asian Bourses Collapse! Nikkei and Kospi Fall Over 6%

Asian stock markets plummeted sharply on Monday, 9 March 2026, driven by crude oil prices surging past USD 100 per barrel for the first time since 2022, following production cuts by major Middle Eastern producers in response to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Japan's Nikkei 225 fell 6.05% and South Korea's KOSPI dropped 6.5%, with technology stocks among the hardest hit, whilst US equity futures also declined amid concerns over inflation and economic growth implications.

Key Concerns Raised for Social Media Age Restriction Plan for Children

Indonesian Parliament members have raised important cautions regarding new regulations restricting social media access for children under 16 years old, set to take effect on 28 March 2026 across eight major platforms. Legislators are emphasising that whilst child protection is paramount, the policy should not inadvertently limit children's access to educational resources and beneficial digital learning, requiring independent oversight and transparent reporting from platforms.

Ministry of Public Works accelerates well construction in temporary shelters in South Tapanuli

The Ministry of Public Works is accelerating the construction of two boreholes in temporary shelters in Batang Toru District, South Tapanuli, to provide clean water to 245 families affected by disaster. Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo stated the project is targeted for completion this week, with permanent housing also being prepared by President Prabowo's administration.

Official: Latest Fuel Prices at All Indonesian Service Stations, Effective 9 March 2026

All major fuel suppliers in Indonesia, including Pertamina, Shell Indonesia, BP-AKR, and Vivo Energy, have raised prices for non-subsidised fuel products at service stations effective 1 March 2026, with increases ranging from Rp 500 to Rp 950 per litre across premium and diesel variants. Subsidised fuel products including Pertalite (RON 90) and Subsidised Solar remain unchanged at Rp 10,000 and Rp 6,800 per litre respectively, as the adjustments implement the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources' pricing formula.

Global Oil Surges, but Pertamina, Shell, BP and Vivo Fuel Prices Remain Stable

Fuel prices at major petrol stations in Jakarta—Pertamina, Shell, BP and Vivo—have remained stable since early March 2026 despite global oil price volatility triggered by the US-Israel-Iran conflict. All major retailers maintain consistent pricing across their petrol and diesel product lines, with subsidised fuel offerings continuing to provide affordable options for consumers.

Hopes for Homecoming Fade as Fate of East Java Migrant Workers in Middle East Rests in Government Hands

Indonesian migrant workers from East Java in the Middle East face potential inability to return home for the Eid holiday due to escalating geopolitical tensions between Iran and Israel-United States. The Indonesian Migrant Worker Protection Agency (BP3MI) in East Java is coordinating with the central government to monitor developments, having established hotlines and evacuation protocols through Indonesian diplomatic missions in the region. Should workers be repatriated, the Ministry of Migrant Worker Protection will provide assistance at airports and coordinate their return to their home regions.

Traffic Management Scheme at Tangerang-Merak Tollway During Lebaran Exodus

Tangerang-Merak Toll Road operators have implemented a phased traffic management scheme to handle the surge of vehicles heading to Merak Port during the Lebaran exodus, including a vehicle delaying system and separation of freight and passenger vehicles. The system uses buffer zones at key points such as Cikupa Toll Gate to gradually release vehicles, whilst cargo destined for Sumatra is redirected to specialist logistics ports like Ciwandan and Bojonegara to maintain traffic flow on the Java-Sumatra crossing route.

Interior Minister Instructs Regional Leaders to Remain on Alert in Their Territories During Eid al-Fitr

Indonesia's Interior Minister Tito Karnavian has instructed all regional heads and deputy regional heads to remain in their respective territories and postpone foreign travel during the week before and after Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah (14-28 March 2026), with limited exceptions only for essential activities directed by the President or medical purposes. The directive aims to ensure regional governments maintain focus on strategic priorities including security, traffic management, inflation control, and Eid celebrations. The policy emphasises the importance of regional leaders being present to respond swiftly to public needs during the peak holiday period.

IHSG Continues Downward Trend; Five Analyst-Recommended Stocks with Profit Potential

The Indonesian Composite Stock Index (IHSG) is projected to continue its correction trend early in the week, closing down 1.62 per cent to 7,585.68 on Friday 6 March 2026. Analyst Ivan Rosanova from Binaartha Securities identifies key support levels at 7,391, 7,140, and 6,691, with an ideal correction target of 7,140, whilst recommending five stocks including BBCA, BBRI, BMRI, PGEO, and TLKM with various trading and accumulative buy recommendations and specified target prices.

Russia Continues Providing Intelligence to Iran Despite Trump Envoy Warning

The United States has warned Russia against sharing military intelligence with Iran, with President Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff issuing a stern message aboard Air Force One. According to Washington Post reports, Russia has been providing Iran with detailed information about US military asset locations in the Middle East since hostilities began, enabling Iranian missiles and drones to strike targets with notable accuracy.

KAI Launches Flash Sale and 30 Per Cent Ticket Discount Today

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) is offering a flash sale and homecoming promotion with ticket discounts of up to 30 per cent to support travel during the 2026 Lebaran exodus period. The promotion covers various service classes from Economy to Panoramic, with flash sales starting from 150,000 rupiah for Economy tickets and running on 9 March 2026 from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM WIB through the Access by KAI application, whilst the broader 30 per cent discount runs from 9–20 March 2026 across all official KAI sales channels.

Al-Hikmah Mosque in Denpasar: A Trace of Islamic and Balinese Cultural Fusion

Al-Hikmah Mosque in Denpasar exemplifies the unique cultural acculturation between Islamic, Balinese, and Javanese traditions on the island of Bali. Built in 1978 in Kesiman, the mosque features distinctive Balinese architectural elements, particularly its paduraksa gateway adorned with intricate Balinese carvings alongside traditional Javanese tiered roofing, symbolising decades of harmonious coexistence and interfaith tolerance. The structure stands as a testament to how diverse cultures have seamlessly integrated in Bali's Muslim community whilst preserving their respective architectural and religious identities.

Fitch Highlights MBG and Budget Deficit Issues; Finance Minister Purbaya Responds

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has responded to Fitch Ratings' downgrade of Indonesia's sovereign debt outlook from stable to negative, attributing the decision partly to the recent change in government and his own newness to the role. Purbaya defended the government's Free Nutritious Meal programme (MBG) and fiscal metrics, noting that Indonesia's debt-to-GDP ratio remains manageable and its economic growth is the highest among G20 nations, whilst committing to international engagement in April 2026 to better communicate Indonesia's economic position.

Global crude oil surge, Indonesian composite index predicted to weaken today

The Indonesian composite index (IHSG) is projected to weaken amid soaring global crude oil prices surpassing USD 100 per barrel, driven by escalating Middle East tensions between Iran and US-Israeli forces. Analysts predict limited weakness with support and resistance levels at 7,460-7,860, with potential government fiscal pressures forcing budget adjustments or fuel subsidy increases if global oil prices continue rising.

IHSG Predicted to Weaken Amid Spike in Global Oil Prices

The Indonesia Stock Exchange Index (IHSG) is forecast to decline on Monday as global crude oil prices surge above $100 per barrel, driven by escalating Middle East tensions between Iran, Israel, and the United States. An analyst from Pilarmas Investindo Sekuritas warns that sustained price increases could force the Indonesian government to adjust its 2026 budget through cuts to the free nutritious meal programme or increases in subsidised fuel prices, potentially triggering inflation and dampening consumer purchasing power.

When a road becomes a defence wing

The proposed Lembar-Kayangan bypass road in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, is designed as a multifunctional infrastructure project that will serve both economic and defence purposes. Beyond reducing logistical transit time from four to five hours to approximately two hours between the island's two major ports, the road is also being prepared as an emergency landing strip for military aircraft. This dual-purpose infrastructure reflects modern development philosophy where civil infrastructure increasingly incorporates national defence functions.

Richard Lee Observes Sahur and Fasting in Detention, Has Not Applied for Suspension of Arrest

Richard Lee, who is being detained as a suspect in alleged violations of health law and consumer protection, is observing sahur and fasting whilst in custody at the Metro Jaya Police Detention Centre. Lee has not yet applied for suspension of his detention and remains in custody alongside other detainees, with his rights to observe religious duties fully protected. He was detained after failing to comply with reporting requirements and skipping a witness examination, including conducting a TikTok livestream promoting products instead of attending police questioning.

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry Urges Investigation into Explosion of Tugboat Musaffah 2 in Strait of Hormuz

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has called for a comprehensive investigation into the explosion and fire aboard the tugboat Musaffah 2 in the Strait of Hormuz, which was carrying Indonesian crew members. Four Indonesian crew and one Indonesian technician were aboard the vessel at the time of the incident; one crew member is receiving treatment for burns in Oman, one technician is safe in Abu Dhabi, and three Indonesian crew members remain missing with search efforts ongoing.

Ahmad Basarah: International diplomacy reflects Megawati's love for Indonesia

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri's international diplomatic engagements and spiritual visits to Saudi Arabia reflect her deep love for Indonesia, according to Ahmad Basarah, Chair of the Advisory Council of Baitul Muslimin Indonesia (Bamusi). Megawati, who received an honorary doctorate from Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University in Riyadh, marked the occasion by performing umrah and praying for Indonesia's unity, peace, and prosperity. Her recent international visits to the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia have been highlighted as demonstrations of Indonesia's global leadership and commitment to advancing human fraternity, climate change initiatives, and research cooperation.

WIKA Divests Hotel Indonesia Stake, Here's Why

State-owned enterprise PT Wijaya Karya (WIKA) has agreed to divest its 49 per cent stake in PT Hotel Indonesia Group (HIG) to PT Hotel Indonesia Natour for Rp 7.8 billion as part of the government's strategy to consolidate and enhance state-owned hotel businesses. The conditional share transfer agreement was signed on 26 February 2026, with the Ministry of State-Owned Enterprises having designated Hotel Indonesia Natour as the executor for integrating and improving BUMN hotel operations. The divestment is expected to enhance WIKA Realty's financial performance, including profitability, liquidity, and solvency whilst supporting Indonesia's tourism and hospitality industry acceleration programme.

Gold Prices from UBS and Galeri24 on Monday, 9 March 2026 Remain Stable at Rp3.1 Million

Gold bar prices offered through PT Pegadaian (Persero) showed stable movement at the start of this week, with both UBS and Galeri24 gold prices remaining unchanged from the previous day as of Monday, 9 March 2026. Both product lines, available in weights ranging from 0.5 grams to 1,000 grams, held steady prices around the Rp3.1 million mark per gram.

Ranu Regulo Camping Ground Temporarily Closed Due to Extreme Weather

The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park Authority has temporarily closed Ranu Regulo Camping Ground due to predicted extreme weather conditions throughout March 2026. The decision follows warnings from Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) about potential natural disasters including heavy rainfall, landslides, fallen trees and strong winds, with warm sea surface temperatures in the Madura Strait contributing to atmospheric instability in East Java.

KOKA Signs Conditional Share Purchase Agreement with Liqun Investment

PT Koka Indonesia Tbk (KOKA) has signed a Conditional Share Purchase Agreement (CSPA) with PT Liqun Investment Indonesia on 6 March 2026, valuing the transaction at Rp37.19 billion. The agreement, which follows a memorandum of understanding from September 2025, aims to expand KOKA's business network and enhance prospects in infrastructure construction whilst strengthening investor confidence and corporate governance.

Prabowo Holds Meeting at Hambalang, Discusses Lebaran Migration and Geopolitics

President Prabowo Subianto convened five separate cabinet meetings at his private residence in Hambalang, Bogor, on 8 March 2026, where he received updates on multiple strategic government priorities. Discussions encompassed the development of ten new STEM and medical education campuses, international geopolitical developments in the Middle East, support for Palestinian students in Indonesia, and preparations for the anticipated surge in Lebaran holiday travel.

Behind the TNI Alert Level 1 Order: Fallout from Middle East Conflict

Indonesia's military commander has issued a Level 1 alert order to all TNI units in response to escalating tensions in the Middle East, aimed at mitigating potential domestic impacts of the regional conflict. The directive, issued through a formal telegram on 1 March 2026, encompasses seven operational commands including heightened personnel readiness, continuous air surveillance, early warning intelligence, enhanced patrols at strategic facilities, and evacuation planning coordination with the Foreign Ministry. The TNI's spokesman emphasised that the professional and responsive mobilisation reflects the military's core mandate to protect Indonesia from threats to national integrity.

Traffic Police Chief Inspects Readiness of Japek II South Functional Toll Road for Eid Holiday Traffic Flow

National Traffic Police Commander Irjen Agus Suryonugroho inspected the readiness of the Jakarta-Cikampek (Japek) II South toll road section, which will be operationalised during the 2026 Eid exodus and return periods. Two completion works remain at kilometres 16 and 13, expected to be finished within two to three days, whilst the functional toll route from Sadang to Setu is designed to ease vehicle congestion during the return traffic period and serve as an alternative route from Bandung to Jakarta.

Unlicensed travel services proliferate due to uneven public transport coverage in regions

Unlicensed minibus services (travel gelap) are expected to surge ahead of the 2026 Eid season as illegal operators capitalise on seasonal passenger demand and gaps in public transport infrastructure. Transportation analyst Djoko Setijowarno attributes the problem to state failure in providing adequate public transport services to rural and smaller towns, urging the government to expand the public transport network beyond major cities and develop domestic electric bus manufacturing to serve remote areas whilst creating green jobs.

Foreign Investors Sell Shares Including MEDC and BBCA as IHSG Falls Sharply

Foreign investors conducted substantial net sell-offs across major-capitalisation stocks during 2-6 March 2026, with Medco Energi Internasional (MEDC) experiencing the largest selling pressure at Rp843.5 billion, as the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) plummeted 7.89% to 7,585.69. The correction, affecting primarily energy, banking, and commodities sectors, saw 696 listed companies decline by more than 2% whilst daily transaction volumes fell 16.64% to average Rp24.97 trillion.

National Human Rights Commission on Delpedro Acquittal: Stop Using Criminal Law to Address Criticism

Indonesia's National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) has called on police to refrain from using criminal law to respond to public criticism, following the acquittal of activist Delpedro Marhaen and three others by Jakarta Central District Court. The court found the defendants not guilty of spreading false information and incitement related to August demonstrations, a ruling Komnas HAM hailed as a positive precedent for protecting freedom of expression and democratic participation in Indonesia.

French President Comments on Indonesian Social Media Account Blocking for Children

French President Emmanuel Macron endorsed Indonesia's new policy restricting social media access for minors, which officially commenced implementation on 28 March 2026 through a Ministry of Communication and Digital regulation. The measure mirrors France's own legislation banning social media for children under 15 years old, with both governments citing child protection and preventing algorithmic manipulation as key objectives.

Note! Motorway Tolls Discounted 30% During Lebaran Exodus 2026

The Indonesian Ministry of Public Works has announced a 30 per cent discount on motorway toll fees during the Lebaran 2026 exodus and return periods (15-16 March for outbound, 26-27 March for return journeys) to ease travel burdens on the public. The discount will apply to multiple toll routes across Java and Sumatera using electronic payment systems, with full lists of affected routes and standard tariffs provided for public reference.

Crude Oil Prices Predicted to Reach US$100 per Barrel

PT Traze Andalan Futures director Ibrahim Assuaibi forecasts crude oil prices could reach US$100 per barrel this week, with Brent crude potentially hitting US$150, driven by Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz and reduced Middle Eastern production. The oil price surge is expected to trigger inflation across logistics and transport sectors, whilst gold prices are projected to rise to US$5,395 per troy ounce, with Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa warning that sustained US$92 per barrel oil could push Indonesia's 2026 budget deficit above 3 per cent without preventive measures.

Finance Minister Purbaya Ready to Channel Rp100 Trillion to Banking Sector with Greater Flexibility

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa plans to inject an additional Rp100 trillion into Indonesia's banking system to enhance liquidity, departing from the Rp200 trillion in fixed-term deposits placed since September 2025. Unlike the previous placement, this new tranche will be flexible short-term funds that can be withdrawn or added at any time based on liquidity needs or state spending requirements, whilst maintaining fiscal flexibility for government expenditure.

Investree Lender Claims Verified by Liquidation Team Reach Rp 151.78 Billion

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has reported that verified lender claims from the defunct fintech lending platform Investree total Rp 151.78 billion, covering 1,708 verified claims out of claims under review by the liquidation team. Following the OJK's October 2024 licence revocation due to persistent defaults, the company was formally dissolved in March 2025 and the liquidation process is ongoing, with remaining unverified claims still being processed by the liquidation team.

Scrutiny of Fadia Arafiq's Claim of Ignorance About Bureaucracy Despite Long Service as Regent

Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq has faced widespread criticism after claiming during a KPK investigation that he lacks understanding of law and local government bureaucracy, despite his lengthy tenure as regent. Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya and legal experts have countered that any corruption committed would constitute intentional wrongdoing rather than ignorance, and that regents have access to training programmes and expert advisers to understand governance. They emphasise that holding office as a regional head carries an inherent responsibility to understand the law and proper administration of local affairs.

Pertamina Increases Fuel Tanker Fleet in Medan to Curb Panic Buying

Pertamina Patra Niaga Regional Sumbagut has expanded its fuel tanker fleet and personnel in Medan to ensure stable fuel supply and prevent panic buying amid global energy security concerns. Local authorities have coordinated with Pertamina to reassure residents that fuel distribution remains smooth and normal purchasing is advised, whilst pledging to monitor illegal hoarding and resale activities.

The Origins of the Richard Lee Case: How a Doctor Ended Up in Custody for Failing to Comply with the Law

Dr Richard Lee has been detained by Jakarta Metro Police over allegations of consumer protection violations related to beauty products and services, following repeated failures to attend scheduled investigations and fulfil mandatory reporting obligations. The doctor initially filed a failed pre-trial objection against his designation as a suspect in December 2024, and was subsequently placed on a travel ban before his arrest in March 2026 for obstructing the investigation, including missing a scheduled examination to broadcast live on TikTok instead.

Philippines Commander States Indonesia Has Purchased Brahmos Missiles from India

The Philippines' Armed Forces Commander General Romeo Saturnino Brawner Jr stated at the Raisina Dialogue 2026 in New Delhi that Indonesia has purchased supersonic Brahmos missiles from India, following the Philippines' own acquisition of the system in 2022 for $375 million. Whilst the Indian government has not officially announced the deal, government sources indicate the contract is nearing finalisation. The statements reflect growing military cooperation between Southeast Asian nations and India, partly driven by regional security concerns including tensions in the South China Sea.

Police Dismantle Vehicle Document Forgery Syndicate; Traffic Police Offer Tips to Avoid Becoming Victims

Indonesian police have uncovered a major cross-provincial vehicle document forgery syndicate operating across multiple regions, seizing nearly 20,000 forged registration certificates and vehicle ownership documents alongside 20 suspected stolen vehicles. The Directorate of Registration and Identification of the National Police's Traffic Corps has issued warnings to the public to exercise caution when purchasing second-hand vehicles and verify document authenticity through official Samsat services, as this criminal activity causes significant material and legal harm to citizens.

Ministry of Environment Summons Managers of Bantargebang Waste Management Facility Following Deadly Rubbish Collapse

The Indonesian Ministry of Environment has announced plans to summon the managers of the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Facility (TPST) following a catastrophic waste landslide on 8 March 2026 that claimed four lives. The ministry's Law Enforcement Deputy is conducting an investigation and will hold responsible parties accountable, with potential criminal penalties under Law No. 32 of 2009 on Environmental Protection and Management. The Jakarta provincial government is being held responsible for the facility, which is publicly owned, and search and rescue efforts continue to ensure no other victims remain buried.

BMKG: Twin cyclone systems 93S and 95W to trigger heavy rainfall today

Indonesia's meteorological agency (BMKG) warns of heavy to very heavy rainfall across multiple regions today due to twin tropical cyclone systems 93S and 95W operating near Indonesian waters. The cyclone germs, detected in the Indian Ocean south of Lampung and the Pacific Ocean north of Papua respectively, have low potential to fully develop but are triggering atmospheric dynamics that will increase cloud formation and rainfall intensity across the archipelago.

Comprehensive Facilities at KM 43A Rest Area, Including Electric Vehicle Charging

The KM 43A rest area on the Tangerang-Merak toll road offers comprehensive facilities for travellers, including charging stations for electric vehicles. The facility can accommodate 110 small vehicles and 60 large vehicles, and features eight electric vehicle charging units including two ultra-fast chargers, alongside traditional amenities such as petrol stations, food outlets, prayer rooms, and toilets.

440 Aircraft at Ngurah Rai Airport Suspend Operations During Nyepi

Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport will temporarily suspend all flight operations on 19 March 2026 during the Balinese Hindu observance of Nyepi, affecting approximately 440 aircraft movements. The airport will remain closed for 24 hours starting at 06:00 local time, whilst the facility is expected to handle 1.1 million passengers during the broader 18-day Lebaran holiday period from 13-30 March, with peak departures anticipated on 18 March and returns peaking on 28 March.

Ship Sinks in Riau Islands, 9 Crew Members Still Missing

The fishing vessel KM Makmur Jaya capsized in waters off Merapas Island, Bintan Regency, Riau Islands on Sunday morning after being struck by high waves, leaving 9 of the 29 crew members missing. Twenty crew members were rescued by passing vessel KM Sinar Abadi and evacuated to Kijang Port, whilst nine others who entered a rescue lifeboat remain unaccounted for and search operations are ongoing with SAR teams deployed to the area.

Series of Explosions Heard Again in Qatar's Capital

Multiple explosions were reported in Doha, Qatar on 9 March 2026, following Iran's declaration of continued retaliatory strikes across the Gulf region in response to attacks by the United States and Israel. Qatar's Interior Ministry has urged residents to remain indoors due to escalated security threats, as Doha faces ongoing waves of drone and missile attacks across the Gulf.

Eight Applications Block Child Accounts in Indonesia After Eid, Not Just Social Media

Indonesia has implemented regulations requiring digital platforms to restrict access for children under 16 years old, affecting eight major applications including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and others. The policy, which takes effect on 28 March 2026, classifies platforms by risk level and implements age-based restrictions to protect children from pornography, cyberbullying, fraud, and digital addiction. Indonesia becomes the first non-Western nation to implement such age-based access restrictions on digital platforms.

Sixteen Flood-Affected Areas Recorded in Jakarta on Monday Morning, All in West Jakarta

The Jakarta Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) reported 16 neighbourhoods across Jakarta remained flooded as of Monday morning, 9 March 2026, with all affected areas concentrated in West Jakarta. Nine evacuation centres have been established across four sub-districts in the western part of the city, with two road segments also inundated.

Hybrid Vehicles for Long-Distance Travel: Do They Require Special Maintenance?

Experts from Chery and Hyundai have confirmed that hybrid vehicles do not require special maintenance before undertaking long-distance journeys such as the Lebaran exodus, contrary to common misconceptions. Whilst hybrid battery systems feature automatic management technology, owners should ensure routine servicing is maintained at authorised dealerships and verify that cooling systems function properly to regulate battery temperature during travel.

IHSG Expected to Move Within 7,450-7,500 Range; Here Are Analyst Recommendations

Indonesia's composite index (IHSG) is expected to move volatilely on 9 March 2026, with support levels predicted between 7,450 and 7,500, according to market analysts. Investors are advised to focus on stocks with strong fundamentals and healthy cash flows, particularly in the energy sector, which presents defensive opportunities amid geopolitical uncertainty and commodity price volatility.

Pertamina, Shell, BP and Vivo fuel prices remain stable in second week of March

Fuel prices at major petrol station operators Pertamina, Shell, BP and Vivo have remained stable since early March 2026, with no price changes recorded despite ongoing geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran. The stability reflects consistent pricing across fuel grades and octane ratings across all four operators, though Shell continues to experience stock shortages.

Global Stock Markets Collapse: Oil Price Breaches US$100 Amid Iran Conflict

Global stock markets experienced severe losses following oil prices surging past US$100 per barrel for the first time since 2022, driven by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and expectations of intensified conflict with Iran. Australian equity markets fell 3%, wiping nearly US$90 billion in value, whilst US futures also declined sharply as crude oil climbed to US$106–US$107 per barrel, marking the largest weekly gain for West Texas Intermediate since trading commenced in 1983. Wall Street analysts warn that sustained oil prices above US$100 risk significantly dampening global economic growth if Middle Eastern tensions remain unresolved.

Gold prices at UBS and Galeri24 in Pegadaian remain stable this Monday morning

Gold bar prices quoted from the official Sahabat Pegadaian website in Jakarta on Monday, 9 March, showed both UBS and Galeri24 gold prices holding steady at Rp3,105,000 and Rp3,091,000 per gram respectively. The prices remained unchanged from the previous morning's listings, with both products available in varying quantities ranging from 0.5 grams to either 500 grams or 1 kilogram.

BMKG Forecasts Moderate Rainfall in Jakarta and Bandung Today

Indonesia's Meteorological, Climatological and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) has issued weather forecasts predicting moderate rainfall in Jakarta, Bengkulu, Bandung, Semarang and Tanjung Selor on Monday, 9 March 2026, with thunderstorms expected in Bandar Lampung and Banjarmasin. The forecasts are attributed to two developing tropical cyclone systems (93S and 95W) and wind circulation patterns that are triggering cloud formation and heavy rainfall potential across multiple Indonesian regions including Bengkulu, Lampung, West Java, Central Java, East Java and East Nusa Tenggara.

US-Israel War Against Iran Extends to Energy and Water Infrastructure

The escalating conflict between the United States and Israel against Iran has expanded beyond military targets to strike critical energy and water infrastructure, including oil storage facilities and desalination plants. Israeli military operations have ignited major fires at oil depots near Tehran, killing several Iranian workers, whilst US forces targeted a desalination facility on Qeshm Island, disrupting water supplies to 30 Iranian villages. Iran has retaliated by attacking a US military base in Bahrain with drone strikes, damaging a desalination plant and causing civilian casualties.

Doctors Warn Against Indiscriminate Use of High-Calorie Milk for Underweight Children

Paediatricians caution parents against using high-calorie milk (sutingkal) without medical supervision, despite its popularity on social media for children with low weight gain. The specialised formula, classified as Medical Food for Special Medical Purposes, should only be prescribed after medical evaluation and when standard interventions have failed, as improper use risks both malnutrition and obesity.

Commander Orders TNI Alert Level 1; Defence Ministry Explains

Indonesia's Defence Ministry has responded to a TNI Commander's telegram ordering alert level 1 readiness across all military units, effective from 1 March 2026. The Defence Ministry spokesperson clarified that this heightened alert is a standard operational procedure in response to global and regional security dynamics, particularly concerning the Middle East conflict, and does not necessarily indicate a direct emergency or threat to Indonesia. The order directs various TNI commands to enhance personnel readiness, patrol vital infrastructure, conduct continuous air surveillance, and coordinate potential civilian evacuations whilst monitoring domestic stability.

Waste Pile Collapse at Bantargebang Landfill: 3 Dead, Trucks and Stalls Buried

A massive waste pile collapsed at the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Management Facility (TPST) in Bekasi on Sunday afternoon, killing three people and burying several garbage trucks and street stalls. The disaster claimed the lives of two stall owners and a garbage truck driver, whilst rescue efforts continued to locate two missing truck drivers and three missing residents or waste pickers. Ten people in total were affected by the incident, which occurred whilst multiple trucks were queuing to dump their loads.

Check: List of Stimulus Measures to Boost Consumer Spending for Eid 2026

The Indonesian government has launched the Shop in Indonesia Only (BINA) programme for Eid 2026, targeting total consumer spending of Rp53 trillion, a 20 per cent increase year-on-year. The programme, running from 6–30 March 2026, involves 380 companies and over 80,000 retail outlets, complemented by food assistance for 35 million families and transportation subsidies to maintain first-quarter economic growth of around 5.5 per cent.

DPR Commission I States Ministerial Regulation on Child Social Media Restrictions Has Legal Basis in ITE Law

Deputy Chairman of DPR Commission I Dave Laksono confirmed that a Ministerial Regulation restricting social media use by children under 16 years old is supported by the Information and Electronic Transaction (ITE) Law, specifically through Articles 40 and 41, which provide enforcement authority for non-compliant digital platforms. The regulation's effectiveness depends on collaboration between the government, digital platforms, schools, and parents, with age verification mechanisms being crucial to implementation.

Oil Price Breaches 100 Dollars per Barrel Following Middle Eastern Production Cuts

Global crude oil prices have surged past 100 US dollars per barrel following production cuts by major Middle Eastern producers amid Iranian tensions and Strait of Hormuz disruptions. West Texas Intermediate crude rose 17 per cent to 106.22 dollars per barrel, marking the largest weekly gain in futures contract history since 1983. Kuwait and Iraq, the fifth and second largest OPEC producers respectively, have significantly reduced output due to security concerns and regional instability.

Comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono Scheduled for Further Police Questioning in Toraja Adat Case

Comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono is scheduled to undergo further questioning on 9 March 2026 at the National Police Cyber Crime Directorate (Dittipidsiber) regarding allegations that his 2013 stand-up comedy material insulted Toraja indigenous funeral traditions (Rambu Solo). Investigators have already interviewed 14 witnesses and 9 experts, with the formal police investigation continuing despite Pandji having previously participated in an indigenous customary hearing in South Sulawesi.

Electric Vehicle Prices Rise in March 2026: Increases of Up to IDR 60 Million

Multiple electric vehicle manufacturers in Indonesia have raised their prices in March 2026, with Chery and Polytron recording the most significant increases. The Chery E5 range has seen increases of IDR 10-20 million, whilst the Chery J6 variants have experienced larger hikes of up to IDR 60 million, reflecting broader market dynamics in Indonesia's developing electric vehicle sector driven by production costs and product strategy adjustments.

Zero-percent Export Tariff to US Opened; National Industry Urged to Strengthen Competitiveness

Indonesia and the United States have reached a trade agreement (ART) granting zero-percent tariff access to 1,819 Indonesian product categories in the American market. However, economists caution that this preferential treatment will only boost exports if Indonesia's domestic industries improve their productivity, product quality, and cost efficiency, as rival nations like Malaysia and Vietnam enjoy similar tariff advantages. Key sectors such as nickel, energy, and petrochemicals show strong potential, whilst textiles and certain mineral products require capacity improvements to compete effectively.

Tensions Escalate as US Orders Diplomats to Depart from Saudi Arabia

The US State Department has ordered all non-essential diplomatic personnel to evacuate from Saudi Arabia following escalating regional tensions and drone attacks on American facilities in Riyadh, including the CIA station. The mandatory evacuation reflects heightened security risks amid ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, with the US having similarly ordered withdrawals from multiple Middle Eastern countries including Qatar, Jordan, Bahrain, and Iraq. Crude oil prices have surged past the symbolic USD 100 per barrel level for the first time since 2022 due to the regional instability.

National Highlights: Alert Status One and Child Access to Digital Spaces

The Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) has implemented Alert Status One across all defence units to anticipate developments in the international, regional and national environment amid the Iran-Israel conflict, with the Defence Ministry clarifying that such alerts do not require parliamentary approval. The Indonesian Child Protection Commission has called for strict government enforcement of digital platform regulations to ensure compliance with rules limiting children's access to online spaces and protecting minors from harm.

Observers: Government support to combat illegal gains protects Jakarta stock exchange stability

A financial observer has emphasised that government and parliamentary support for the Financial Services Authority's efforts to eliminate illegal profit-taking in stock trading is essential for maintaining stability in Indonesia's stock market index. The commentary follows an investigation into market manipulation involving PT Mirae Asset Sekuritas Indonesia, including alleged false transactions and unreported affiliated parties in IPO allocations, with suspected illegal gains estimated at Rp14.5 trillion.

Why the TNI Commander Issued Level 1 Alert Order

General Agus Subiyanto, Commander of the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI), has issued a Level 1 alert order across all military units effective 1 March 2026 in response to escalating international conflicts, particularly in the Middle East, and potential security implications for Indonesia. The directive requires heightened operational readiness, increased patrols of vital infrastructure and economic centres, mapping of Indonesian citizens abroad for potential evacuation, enhanced intelligence operations, and regular situation reporting to military command.

Oil Price Breaches US$100 per Barrel: Time for Indonesia's B50 Biodiesel Push?

Rising global crude oil prices above US$100 per barrel, driven by Middle Eastern tensions, present an opportune moment for Indonesia to accelerate its B50 biodiesel programme, which mandates blending 50% palm oil-based biodiesel with diesel fuel. The policy, scheduled for full implementation in the second half of 2026, could strengthen Indonesia's energy security, reduce import dependency, and enhance domestic palm oil industry value, whilst current crude palm oil supplies are sufficient to meet increased biodiesel demand alongside existing export commitments.

What is Contraflow? Understanding the Traffic Management System Frequently Applied During Eid Exodus

Contraflow is a traffic management system commonly deployed by Indonesian authorities during the Eid holiday exodus to reduce congestion on toll roads. The system temporarily opens lanes from the opposite direction to vehicles travelling in the congested direction, increasing capacity and improving traffic flow. Although effective in reducing congestion, contraflow carries inherent risks as vehicles travel in close proximity to oncoming traffic, requiring drivers to maintain lower speeds, focus, and safe distances.

Global Oil Prices Breach 111 US Dollars per Barrel, Highest Since 2022

Global oil prices surged approximately 20 per cent in early trading on Monday, reaching their highest levels since July 2022, driven by concerns that the Iran-Israel conflict and US involvement could disrupt critical oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude briefly spiked to 111.04 US dollars per barrel whilst West Texas Intermediate crude reached 111.24 US dollars per barrel, with escalating military tensions and geopolitical rhetoric raising fears of prolonged energy supply disruptions. The potential for sustained higher fuel prices globally could persist for weeks or months even if the current conflict resolves quickly, as Saudi Arabia's increased Red Sea shipments remain insufficient to offset supply reductions from the affected Strait of Hormuz route.

Monday Morning: 16 Neighbourhoods and 2 Roads in Jakarta Remain Flooded

As of Monday morning (9 March 2026) at 06:00 WIB, 16 neighbourhoods (RT) in western Jakarta remain submerged by floodwaters with depths reaching up to 90 centimetres, following heavy rainfall that began the previous day. The Jakarta Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD DKI) reported that two road segments are also inundated, with over 400 residents currently sheltering in mosques and public facilities across the affected areas.

Telephone Calls from Fraudsters Have Clear Signs: Understanding Vishing Characteristics

Vishing—a combination of voice and phishing—is a prevalent fraud scheme where scammers attempt to trick people into revealing personal information by impersonating government officials or large corporations. The article outlines eight key warning signs of vishing scams, including impersonation of authorities, unsolicited prize offers, lack of personal knowledge, false debt claims, requests for sensitive data, malware warnings, and automated call technology, advising victims to hang up and verify directly with official companies.

Yesterday: Cap Go Meh festivities proceed smoothly amid Eid exodus preparations

This article is a daily news roundup covering five major Indonesian stories: security arrangements for the Cap Go Meh festival in Karawang, police action against expired meat distribution, restrictions on government officials requesting holiday allowances, a peacefully resolved case between two individuals, and police readiness preparations for potential disasters during the Eid holiday exodus. The stories reflect government security operations, public safety measures, and administrative regulations in advance of major public events and holiday travel.

Flash Sale Railway Tickets Today! Prices Starting from Rp150,000

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) Regional Operations 8 Surabaya is launching a Ramadan Festive programme featuring a flash sale on train tickets starting from Rp150,000, available only today for one hour (16:30–17:30 WIB). The programme also includes up to 30 per cent discounts for tickets purchased today for travel between 9–20 March 2026, accessible through the Access by KAI application and all official KAI sales channels.

24.9 Million Homebound Travellers Predicted to Flood East Java, Peak Traffic Expected on 18 March

East Java's Transportation Department predicts 24.9 million people will travel to the province during the upcoming Eid holiday, with peak traffic anticipated on Wednesday, 18 March 2026. The influx represents 17.3 per cent of national movement, with trains (37.8%), buses (34.5%), and ferries being the primary transport modes, whilst authorities have mobilised 6,637 buses, 148 train sets, and numerous aircraft and vessels to manage the seasonal surge.

IHSG Weakens Since Early March 2026, What's Behind It?

Indonesia's composite stock index (IHSG) declined 1.62 per cent to 7,585.687 points by Friday 6 March 2026, driven by concurrent global and domestic negative sentiment including Middle Eastern geopolitical tensions and budget deficit concerns. Rising global oil prices stemming from US-Israel-Iran escalation threaten Indonesia's trade balance, rupiah stability, and energy subsidies, while a February 2026 budget deficit of approximately 135 trillion rupiah constrains fiscal flexibility.

Winners of Badung Caka Fest 2026 Ogoh-ogoh Competition Announced on 11 March

The Badung Caka Fest 2026 winners for the main ogoh-ogoh competition will be announced on 11 March 2026 through media channels, rather than immediately at the festival's closing, said the Acting Head of Badung Cultural Affairs Office. The competition saw 21 entries at the regency level selected from 597 youth groups across seven evaluation zones, with the Regent emphasising the quality and innovation of submissions.

SGRO Bought Up for Rp4.7 Trillion: Indonesia's Top 10 Largest Foreign Net Buy Stocks

Foreign investors conducted net purchases totalling approximately Rp2.23 trillion on the Indonesian stock exchange during 2-6 March 2026, with PT Prime Agri Resources (SGRO) being the primary target accumulating Rp4.73 trillion in negotiated market transactions as part of a mandatory tender offer. Despite significant foreign buying activity, the composite index fell 7.89 per cent to 7,585.69 as market capitalisation declined 7.85 per cent to Rp13.627 trillion, reflecting broader market weakness.

Interior Minister Prohibits Regional Heads from Travelling Abroad During Eid al-Fitr Holiday

Indonesia's Interior Minister Tito Karnavian has issued a directive prohibiting all regional heads and their deputies from travelling abroad during the Eid al-Fitr 2026 holiday period, specifically from 14 to 28 March 2026. The ban aims to ensure smooth governance operations and allow regional leaders to focus on security preparations, coordinating with local coordination forums, managing inflation, and overseeing the smooth flow of homecoming traffic during the holiday period, with exceptions only for essential presidential directives or medical treatment.

Low-Income Housing Development Project in Cikarang Begins Construction with Target of 3 Million Units

Danantara has commenced construction of a low-income housing (MBR) development project in Cikarang, West Java, spanning 30 hectares with an ambitious target of three million residential units. The project, which is a presidential priority initiative, was formally inaugurated by senior government officials including Housing Minister Maruarar Sirait and Housing Task Force Chair Hashim Djojohadikusumo alongside key private sector leaders.

Indonesia's Move to Restrict Social Media for Children Under 16 Gains Global Leaders' Attention

Indonesia's government has issued regulations prohibiting children under 16 years from accessing social media accounts, derived from Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 (PP Tunas), which has garnered international praise including support from French President Emmanuel Macron. The policy aims to protect children from digital harms such as cyberbullying, inappropriate content exposure, and online fraud, whilst requiring platforms to implement strict age verification, content filtering, and responsive reporting mechanisms alongside bans on child data profiling.

Metro Police Mobile Brigade Assists in Evacuation of Victims from Bantargebang Waste Landslide

A catastrophic landslide at the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Site in Bekasi, West Java, claimed at least three lives when a waste heap suddenly collapsed, crushing rubbish trucks and nearby residents. Metro Jaya Regional Police Mobile Brigade personnel were deployed to assist in emergency evacuation operations alongside search and rescue teams and local authorities. The incident occurred on 8 March at approximately 15:29 WIB, with ongoing search efforts to locate any additional victims trapped under the debris.

Deputy Finance Minister Confirms National Budget Can Withstand Oil Prices up to US$90 per Barrel

Deputy Finance Minister Juda Agung has assured that Indonesia's national budget (APBN) remains robust enough to handle oil price increases up to US$80-90 per barrel whilst maintaining fiscal discipline. Emphasising Indonesia's economic resilience with 5.11% growth in 2025 and a fiscal deficit of 2.92%, Juda stressed the importance of leveraging the demographic dividend until 2035-2040 to achieve developed nation status by 2045 and avoid the middle-income trap.

Flood Still Submerges 16 Neighbourhoods and 2 Road Sections in Jakarta This Morning

Floodwaters continued to inundate 16 neighbourhoods and two road sections across Jakarta as of Monday morning, with water levels ranging from half a metre to nearly one metre, marking a significant decrease from the peak of 148 affected neighbourhoods on Sunday. The flooding was caused by heavy rainfall over the weekend and the overflow of several rivers in the Jakarta region and surrounding areas. Disaster management authorities deployed personnel to monitor conditions and coordinate drainage operations whilst advising residents to remain vigilant.

How to Exchange New Money for 2026 at BCA: Schedule and Locations

PT Bank Central Asia (BCA) is offering a currency exchange service for new banknotes ahead of Eid al-Fitr 2026 to meet the traditional demand for new money during the Islamic holiday. Customers must register online through Bank Indonesia's PINTAR system and present proof of booking and valid identification to exchange old notes for smaller denominations or new banknotes at selected BCA branches nationwide between 23 February and 13 March 2026.

16 Residential Communities and 2 Road Sections Still Flooded Monday Morning, Here is the List

Jakarta's disaster management agency reported that as of Monday 6.00 am, flooding was still affecting 16 residential communities (RT) and two road sections across Jakarta, with water depths ranging from 0.5 to nearly 1 metre. The flooding has been gradually receding since its peak on Sunday afternoon, when 148 residential communities and 20 road sections were inundated following heavy rainfall on Saturday and Sunday and overflow of several rivers. Authorities are deploying personnel to monitor conditions and coordinate drainage and water management efforts.

TNI Alert Status 1 Designation Does Not Require Defence Ministry Approval

The Defence Ministry's Information Bureau Chief Brigadier General Rico Ricardo Sirait stated that the Indonesian Military's (TNI) decision to establish Alert Status 1 does not require approval from the Defence Ministry, as such operational decisions fall within the TNI Commander's purview. The TNI Commander established Alert Status 1 across all defence units amid escalating Middle East conflicts involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, with the measure designed to ensure military preparedness rather than indicate an immediate threat to Indonesia.

16 Neighbourhoods and 2 Road Sections in West Jakarta Still Flooded This Morning

The Jakarta Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) reported that 16 neighbourhoods and 2 road sections in West Jakarta remained flooded on Monday morning following heavy rainfall that began on Sunday, with water depths reaching up to 90 centimetres in Rawa Buaya district. Hundreds of residents have been evacuated to nearby places of worship and educational facilities, with floodwaters concentrated entirely in West Jakarta affecting major roads including Jalan Kapuk Muara Raya and the Lampu Merah Luar Kembangan Raya area due to the overflowing of Kali Angke river. Urban observers argue the recurring floods highlight not only extreme rainfall but also the weakening of Jakarta's flood control systems and insufficient green space in the capital.

What Is Eco Enzyme? A Versatile Liquid Made from Organic Waste That Is Environmentally Friendly

Eco enzyme, produced through fermentation of organic waste such as fruit and vegetable peels, is gaining traction in Indonesia as an environmentally friendly solution for household cleaning and gardening. The fermentation process generates compounds with disinfectant properties—including ethanol and acetic acid—that kill bacteria and fungi, enabling its use as a multipurpose cleaner and natural insecticide. By converting organic waste into a useful product, eco enzyme addresses Indonesia's significant waste management challenge, with organic waste comprising approximately 60 per cent of the nation's total waste.

Monday: 14 Mobile Samsat Locations Available in Greater Jakarta

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police Traffic Directorate's Registration and Identification Subdivision will operate 14 mobile Samsat (one-roof administrative service) locations across Jakarta, Depok, Tangerang, and Bekasi on Monday, offering vehicle registration validation, motorised vehicle tax payments, and traffic accident insurance contributions. The mobile service is designed to provide convenient access to these services across multiple locations and operating hours, though five-yearly tax payments and number plate replacements still require visits to main Samsat offices.

Flooding in South Tangerang Recedes Since Sunday Afternoon

Flooding that inundated several areas in South Tangerang city has subsided since Sunday afternoon (8 March 2026), with water levels receding by 15:45, according to the Regional Disaster Management Agency. Over 800 families were initially affected across eight affected points, with water depths ranging from 10 to 110 centimetres, though authorities have confirmed no areas remain flooded as of Monday morning whilst maintaining vigilance for potential secondary flooding.

Oil Prices Soar Amid Iran Conflict; Donald Trump: This Is a Small Price for Global Security

Global crude oil prices surged past the $100 per barrel psychological threshold on 8 March following escalating Middle East tensions and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz. US President Donald Trump characterised the spike as temporary and justified it as a modest sacrifice for global security, asserting prices will fall once the Iranian nuclear threat is resolved. The market remains volatile due to supply disruptions and production cuts by major Middle Eastern energy producers.

Surprising Turn: Gold Prices Battered Amid Regional Conflict

Gold prices collapsed by 1.7% on Monday, 9 March 2026, to US$5,083.79 per troy ounce, reversing the previous week's gains and ending a four-week winning streak. Middle Eastern tensions, though traditionally supportive for safe-haven assets, are paradoxically weighing on gold as higher oil prices threaten inflation and reduce the likelihood of Federal Reserve rate cuts, whilst a strengthening US dollar further pressures prices.

Foreign Funds Exit Indonesian Stock Exchange as Analysts Recommend Buying Large-Cap Stocks

Foreign investors continued to sell large-capitalisation shares on the Indonesian Stock Exchange throughout March 2026, with net selling reaching 263 billion rupiah on 6 March alone and accumulating to 7.28 trillion rupiah since the start of the year. Despite the selling pressure, market analysts maintain that large-cap stocks remain attractive for investment, with the outflows attributed to heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East driving investors towards safer haven assets. Analysts suggest that if the Financial Services Authority and Stock Exchange's proposals are accepted by MSCI, foreign investors may return to the market post-conflict.

Bahlil Criticises LPDP: Do Not Impose TOEFL 800 Requirement, That Only Benefits the Wealthy

Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia has criticised the Education Fund Management Institute (LPDP) for imposing high TOEFL English language requirements on scholarship applicants, arguing that such standards primarily advantage wealthy students rather than the poor and Islamic boarding school (pesantren) graduates. Bahlil called for the LPDP to allocate scholarship quotas proportionally to pesantren students, contending that school prestige does not necessarily determine a person's quality and capability.

Eid Holiday Travel Season: Motorists Urged to Stop for Maximum 30 Minutes at Rest Areas

Toll road operators, particularly PT Jasa Marga, have implemented a policy limiting rest area stays to a maximum of 30 minutes during the busy Eid holiday travel season to accommodate the high volume of travellers. Rest area managers are also encouraging motorists to maintain cleanliness and not linger excessively at facilities along toll roads to ensure smooth and comfortable journeys for all.

President Prabowo Holds Five Meetings at Hambalang Residence

President Prabowo Subianto convened five separate meetings with cabinet ministers at his residence in Hambalang, Bogor on 8 March 2026. The meetings covered diverse strategic topics including development of ten new science and technology-focused universities, advancement of existing higher education institutions, the Middle East situation, Palestinian students studying in Indonesia, and security arrangements for the forthcoming Eid holiday exodus.

Flooding in Jakarta Still Submerges 16 Residential Units and Two Roads Until Monday Morning

The Jakarta Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) reported on Monday morning that flooding still inundated 16 residential units (RTs) and two roads with water levels ranging from 50 centimetres to nearly one metre, with water gradually receding after peaking on Sunday afternoon when 148 RTs and 20 roads were flooded. The flooding was caused by heavy rainfall on Saturday and Sunday and the overflowing of several rivers in the Jakarta area, with the worst-affected areas concentrated in West Jakarta.

Anthropic Study: Computer-Based Professions Experience Decline in Young Worker Recruitment

A research report by artificial intelligence firm Anthropic finds that recruitment of young workers aged 22-25 in computer-based and text-heavy professions has declined by approximately 14 per cent since the emergence of generative AI such as ChatGPT. The study analysed US labour market data from the Current Population Survey and discovered that the downward trend in hiring became apparent from 2024 onwards, with recruitment rates falling by half a percentage point monthly in high-AI-exposure roles, whilst unemployment rates have remained relatively stable across both AI-exposed and non-exposed professions.

Labour Demonstration Held in Gambir Today, 1,446 Police Officers on Standby

Labour unions, led by the National Workers' Union Central Leadership Board, will hold a demonstration in Gambir, Central Jakarta on 9 February 2026, with around 1,446 police personnel deployed to ensure security. Traffic management will be implemented situationally based on the size of crowds, and authorities have urged residents to avoid the demonstration area and use alternative routes.

Bantargebang Landfill Landslide Claims Four Lives, Two Rescued

A major landslide at Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Facility (TPST) in Bekasi on 8 March 2026 has claimed four lives and left two others rescued. Authorities suspect the death toll could reach approximately 10 people, including truck drivers and waste pickers. Large-scale rescue operations involving military, police, local disaster management agencies, and volunteer organisations are ongoing using heavy excavation equipment.

Four Key Developments in Case of Skeletal Remains of Woman Found in Depok Covered in Coffee Powder

The skeletal remains of a 56-year-old woman identified as DH were discovered in Meruyung, Limo, Depok, after her son and his partner visited the house for cleaning. The victim had been living with an unidentified customary husband, and police have recovered evidence including missing items such as a motorcycle and mobile phone; the remains were found covered in coffee powder, prompting an investigation that includes CCTV review and an autopsy.

Unpacking the KaryawanCEO Phenomenon: A New Narrative of Urban Workers in the Digital Era

The article explores the emerging phenomenon of content creator Endar Yuliwanto, known as KaryawanCEO, who documents the reality of office workers' lives whilst balancing a personal business in home decoration. Through his digital platforms, Endar challenges the notion that permanent employment precludes economic empowerment, demonstrating how urban workers in Indonesia are redefining career aspirations in the digital economy by combining salaried employment with entrepreneurial ventures.

World Oil Price Breaches US$100 per Barrel, Red Alert for 2026 State Budget

World crude oil prices have officially surged past the psychological US$100 per barrel mark following escalating Middle East tensions, with Brent crude exceeding US$100 and WTI trading around US$96, driven by threats to close the Strait of Hormuz which supplies 20% of global energy needs. Indonesia faces fiscal strain as its 2026 state budget assumed oil prices of only US$70 per barrel, creating a US$30 gap that could add up to Rp201 trillion in energy subsidy burdens if prices remain elevated, potentially pushing the budget deficit beyond the safe 3% limit. The government is monitoring the situation closely and may need to adjust subsidised fuel prices such as Pertalite and Biosolar if fiscal space becomes insufficient.

LSUV Prices Rise and Fall Ahead of Lebaran 2026

Japanese and South Korean car manufacturers are adjusting prices for low sport utility vehicles ahead of Lebaran 2026, with Mitsubishi raising prices for the Xpander Cross whilst Honda reduces prices for the WR-V across its variants. Suzuki, Daihatsu, and Kia have also announced price revisions for their respective LSUV models, with prices ranging from approximately Rp261.5 million to Rp371 million depending on model and transmission type.

Former Minibus Conductor Now Golkar Chairman, Bahlil Shares Success Recipe with Pesantren Students

Bahlil Lahadalia, chairman of the Golkar Party and Energy and Mineral Resources Minister, visited Pesantren Azzainiyyah in Sukabumi to motivate students, sharing his personal journey from poverty and humble beginnings as a minibus conductor to achieving high public office. He attributed his success to speed and determination, emphasising that success comes to the swift rather than the strong, and highlighted Golkar as Indonesia's most inclusive party, with chairmen representing regions from Sumatra to Papua.

Jakarta Floods Again as Governor Points to Heavy Rainfall and Tidal Waters as Root Causes

Jakarta experienced widespread flooding from 8-9 March 2026 caused by heavy rainfall and tidal influxes, with the Regional Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) reporting affected areas initially spanning 39 neighbourhoods and 13 roads, expanding to 75 neighbourhoods and 19 roads across South, West, and East Jakarta. Governor Pramono Anung acknowledged the severity whilst noting that flooding from surrounding areas like Bogor and Tangerang contributed to the crisis, and emphasised that despite river normalisation efforts on the Ciliwung, Cakung Lama, and Krukut rivers, complete elimination of Jakarta's flooding remains impossible.

Strait of Hormuz in Turmoil, 10 Ships Attacked—Deaths Mount

Over ten ships have been attacked in or near the Strait of Hormuz following Iran's blockade of the strategically vital waterway since the escalation of the US-Israel-Iran conflict on 28 February, resulting in at least seven confirmed deaths. The coordinated attacks have caused commercial shipping traffic to plummet by 90% in a single week, severely disrupting global trade flows for approximately 20% of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas. International maritime authorities warn that vessels offering assistance to attacked ships face heightened risk, whilst the United States and France consider military options to secure this critical global commerce route.

Over 230 Million People Weekly Use ChatGPT for Health Advice

OpenAI reports that more than 230 million people use ChatGPT weekly to seek medical advice on topics ranging from food safety to allergy management and flu relief. However, a study published in Nature warns that artificial intelligence for medical consultation poses health risks, finding that ChatGPT Health cannot reliably recognise situations requiring emergency treatment, particularly conditions with hidden dangers.

Danantara Begins Designing Affordable Housing for Low-Income Families in Cikarang

The Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas (PKP) and Danantara Indonesia have conducted a site survey in Cikarang, West Java, as the initial phase of planning affordable housing development for low-income families (MBR). The initiative is part of the government's flagship "3 Million Homes" programme and will involve collaboration between government agencies, state-owned enterprises, and the private sector to ensure the project is well-planned and sustainable.

Threat of Fuel Crisis and Vulnerability of Indonesia's Energy Storage Capacity

Indonesia's fuel storage capacity has fallen critically short of international standards, with current reserves hovering at only 20–23 days compared to the OECD/IEA benchmark of 90 days, sparking public panic amid geopolitical tensions affecting Middle Eastern energy supply. The government has acknowledged the urgent need to expand storage infrastructure and diversify import sources, but faces significant funding constraints and regulatory barriers that limit private sector participation in building strategic petroleum reserves.

Breaking: Crude Oil Price Surges, Breaches US$100 per Barrel

Global crude oil prices have spiked sharply, breaching US$100 per barrel following supply disruptions from the Middle East triggered by Iran-related conflict and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude jumped 18.98% to US$108.15 per barrel, whilst global benchmark Brent rose 16.19% to US$107.70 per barrel on Monday, marking the continuation of a major rally that saw prices surge approximately 35% the previous week.

Yesterday, TNI Alert Level 1 Controversy to Middle East Geopolitics

A roundup of the five most-read news stories on Sunday (8 March) highlighted Indonesia's leading domestic and international issues, centred on the Indonesian Military's (TNI) Alert Level 1 status, military-political dynamics, parliamentary response to potential fuel price increases ahead of Eid, and developments in Middle Eastern geopolitics. Parliament members called for clearer transparency from the TNI regarding the alert status, whilst officials debated the broader implications for national security in light of regional tensions. The coverage reflected public concern over military preparedness, fuel inflation, and Indonesia's position on international affairs.

Medina Strengthens Pedestrian and Cyclist-Friendly Infrastructure

The Medina Regional Development Authority has launched an initiative to enhance public spaces for pedestrians and cyclists, promoting active and healthy lifestyles among residents and visitors to the holy city. The programme includes well-maintained walking paths, safe cycling lanes, dedicated bicycle stations, and barefoot walking areas designed to encourage physical activity and improve quality of life.

List of Trans-Java Toll Roads Offering Discounted Fares for Eid 2026

The Indonesian Public Works Ministry has announced a 30 per cent toll tariff discount across 18 toll road segments in Java during the Eid 2026 exodus period, covering four days (15–16 March and 26–27 March 2026) for both outbound and return journeys. The policy aims to reduce travel costs for passengers and maintain traffic flow on major routes, with the Jakarta-Semarang journey cost dropping from approximately Rp 473,500 to Rp 327,250.

IHSG and Rupiah Under Threat as Oil Surges Past US$100, Critical News from China

Indonesian financial markets face mounting pressure as crude oil prices surge dramatically past US$100 per barrel amid escalating geopolitical tensions between Iran and the United States, threatening to worsen inflation, fuel subsidies, and currency stability. The shock comes amid broader global market weakness, with US equity indices closing sharply lower on disappointing employment data and rising oil prices, whilst major US corporations like BlackRock face investor redemption pressures. Oil prices have surged 48% since the Iran-Israel-US conflict erupted on 27 February 2026, with WTI crude reaching its highest level since June 2022, posing significant risks to Indonesia's import costs and monetary policy.

DKI Jakarta roundup: flood management and Nyepi Festival

Jakarta's provincial government deployed 1,200 flood control pumps on Sunday (8 March) to manage inundation and flooding following heavy rainfall, whilst also marking the Festival Nyepi at Hotel Indonesia Roundabout to promote religious tolerance. The week also saw the recovery of a drowned teenager in Pademangan, stabilisation efforts at the Bantargebang integrated waste processing facility, and strong ticket sales for Lebaran train services reaching 58 per cent occupancy.

Bantargebang Waste Mountain Collapse: 4 Dead, Others Still Buried

A massive landslide at the Bantargebang waste treatment site in Bekasi on Sunday 8 March resulted in four confirmed deaths when a garbage mountain collapsed onto five waste collection trucks and nearby structures. Approximately ten people remain unaccounted for, with search and rescue operations involving 20 excavators continuing as authorities attempt to locate the missing individuals buried beneath the debris.

KPAI Monitors Implementation of ministerial Regulation Limiting Children's Social Media Use

The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) believes it is premature to elevate the ministerial regulation restricting social media use by children under 16 years old to the status of law, preferring instead to oversee the current regulation's implementation. KPAI commissioner Aris Adi Leksono emphasised the importance of monitoring the regulation's impact on creating child-friendly digital spaces and protecting children from harmful content, whilst stressing the need for coordinated efforts involving the Ministry of Communications and Digital Affairs, service providers, and families.

Global Oil Prices Breach US$100 per Barrel Amid Iran War Tensions

Global crude oil prices have officially exceeded the psychological threshold of US$100 per barrel for the first time since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, driven by investor concerns over potential supply disruptions in the Middle East stemming from military tensions with Iran. US crude futures surged 14.7% whilst Brent crude climbed 12.63% to US$104 per barrel, triggering widespread anxiety about accelerating global inflation and prompting the Trump administration to downplay the long-term impacts. Indonesia's government has signalled openness to adjusting fuel prices should global oil costs continue rising, whilst authorities plan to expand domestic fuel storage capacity from 25-26 days to 90 days.

School Holiday Schedule for Eid al-Fitr 2026

The Indonesian government has established the school holiday schedule for 2026 to commemorate Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah, expected to fall on Saturday, 21 March and Sunday, 22 March 2026, through a joint circular from the Ministers of Education, Religious Affairs, and Internal Affairs. Students are scheduled for approximately ten working days of holiday between 16 March and 27 March 2026, with regular classes resuming on 30 March, though regional authorities may adjust dates according to local policies.

Odd-Even Vehicle Restrictions Implemented at 28 Jakarta Toll Gate Access Points

Jakarta is implementing odd-even vehicle restrictions based on licence plate numbers across 28 toll gate access points from 9-13 March 2026, running in two sessions: 06:00-10:00 and 16:00-21:00. Vehicles with even-numbered plates may only pass on even dates, whilst those with odd-numbered plates are restricted to odd dates, affecting major toll corridors throughout the city.

Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Backs Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran's New Supreme Leader

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has expressed full support for the Assembly of Experts' selection of Ayatollah Seyed Mojtaba Khamenei as the Islamic Republic's new Supreme Leader, pledging obedience and protection of Islamic Revolutionary values. The appointment comes following the death of the previous Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei, who led Iran for 37 years, with Mojtaba Khamenei becoming the third Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution.

Bahlil: It is improper to separate Islamic boarding schools from the state

Golkar Party Chairman Bahlil Lahadalia has emphasised the critical role of Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) in shaping Indonesian nationalism and character development, arguing they should not be separated from state interests. During a Ramadan visit to Pondok Pesantren Azzainiyyah in Sukabumi, Bahlil highlighted government initiatives including free nutritious meals and LPDP scholarships aimed at supporting pesantren students. He argued that pesantren have historically served as nurseries for national leaders and moral guardians, even predating Indonesia's independence.

Flash Sale for Train Tickets Today 9 March 2026, Executive Class from Rp 300,000

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) is launching a flash sale for Lebaran 2026 train tickets offering discounted fares across multiple service classes from economy to panoramic. The promotion includes additional discounts of up to 30 per cent for certain routes through the Mudik Promo programme, with prices valid whilst promotional quotas remain available.

Following Meikarta, Subsidised Apartment Complex to be Built in Depok on Komdigi Land

The Indonesian government plans to construct subsidised apartments for low-income households in Depok, West Java, utilising land owned by the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs. The 45-hectare development site, with good accessibility to public transport and nearby facilities, aims to address Depok's housing backlog affecting approximately 170,000 residents through financing schemes offering tenors up to 30 years with minimal down payments and affordable monthly instalments.

Uncertainty Over Fate of Three Indonesian Nationals After Musaffah 2 Vessel Explodes in Strait of Hormuz

The Emirati-flagged tugboat Musaffah 2 exploded and sank in the Strait of Hormuz on 6 March 2026, resulting in three Indonesian crew members going missing and one sustaining burn injuries. The Indonesian Foreign Ministry's Protection of Citizens Directorate is coordinating intensively with UAE and Omani authorities for search and rescue operations, whilst urging all Indonesian nationals in the Middle East to heighten security awareness.

Waste Dump Landslide in Bantargebang: Four Dead, Several Still Buried

A landslide at the Integrated Waste Management Facility (TPST) in Bantargebang, Bekasi, on 8 March 2026 claimed four lives and left several others buried under waste. Authorities suspect approximately ten people remain trapped beneath the debris, though two have been successfully rescued alive; the incident occurred as garbage trucks were unloading waste and is believed to have been triggered by heavy rainfall.

Eight Applications to Block Child Accounts in Indonesia, Including YouTube and Roblox

The Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) has issued new regulations requiring eight major digital platforms to deactivate accounts belonging to children under 16 years of age, as outlined in Ministerial Regulation Number 9 of 2026. The policy aims to protect children from digital threats including pornographic content, cyberbullying, online fraud, and digital addiction, with Komdigi acknowledging potential short-term inconvenience but emphasising the necessity of safeguarding Indonesia's youth.

Road Construction in IKN Workers' Housing Estate Reaches Final Stage

The Ministry of Public Works is completing road infrastructure in the Core Zone of the New Government Centre (KIPP) of Indonesia's new capital, with the Workers' Housing Area (HPK) road improvement package now 70% complete as of early March 2026 and expected to finish by July 2026. The 3.3-kilometre road project incorporates modern smart city features including motion-sensor lighting, solar-powered energy systems, automated irrigation, and shared street design to support sustainable urban development.

Key Points to Know About Alert Status I Designation

Indonesia's military commander has declared Alert Status I (the highest level of military readiness) for all defence units nationwide in anticipation of regional security developments following airstrikes by the United States and Israel on Iran. The designation is an internal military instruction requiring personnel to remain at bases fully equipped with weapons and ammunition, and does not apply to civilian populations or require parliamentary approval unless military operations are subsequently conducted.

Agreement Reached: Case of Nabilah O'Brien and Zendhy Kusuma Resolved Through Restorative Justice

A legal dispute between restaurant owner Nabilah O'Brien and customer couple Zendhy Kusuma and ER has been formally resolved through mediation and restorative justice mechanisms at Indonesia's National Police headquarters. Both parties have withdrawn their police reports and committed to removing all related social media content following the settlement, which was facilitated by the Police Investigation Bureau (Bareskrim) and influenced by the Ramadan period of reflection and forgiveness.

The Tragedy of Buleleng Flash Floods: Death While Saving Car—One Child Still Missing

A devastating flash flood struck Banjar Village in Buleleng Regency, Bali on 6 March 2026, claiming four lives including a family of three swept away by sudden torrential waters from the Mendaum River. One victim, Ketut Adi Suarjana, died attempting to rescue his vehicle when the water level rapidly increased, whilst three members of the Witana family—mother Komang Suci and children Putu Wini and Kadek Wahyu—were washed away when the flood destroyed their home; only one child remains missing after search and rescue operations recovered two bodies.

Growing calls for Indonesia to withdraw from BoP; Expert: Government must prepare exit plan

Civil society groups continue pressing the Indonesian government to withdraw from the Board of Peace (BoP), a body established by US President Donald Trump, particularly following the US-Israel military alliance's attack on Iran in late February. According to Broto Wardoyo, an international relations expert at the University of Indonesia, whilst US pressure will almost certainly follow any exit decision, the government's priority should be developing a comprehensive exit strategy that clearly defines Indonesia's involvement in the International Stabilisation Force, including detailed rules of engagement to protect Palestinian interests and Indonesian troops' safety.

Hashim: Housing Programme Capable of Boosting Economic Growth by up to 2 Per Cent

Housing Sector Task Force Chief Hashim Djojohadikusumo has stated that the housing development sector could contribute 1.5 to 2 per cent to Indonesia's overall economic growth, with multiplier effects reaching 1.5 to 5 times. The government's 3 Million Homes programme is expected to stimulate the broader economy by engaging approximately 185 related economic sectors and addressing the housing needs of around 27 million families living in substandard conditions.

Bogor Mayor Reminds Civil Servants of Ban on Requesting Year-End Bonuses, Violators Face Sanctions

Bogor Mayor Dedie A Rachim has warned civil servants (ASN) against requesting year-end bonuses (THR) from any party, cautioning that violations will result in disciplinary sanctions ranging from written warnings to further measures. The mayor urged residents to report any ASN observed soliciting bonuses to relevant authorities and expressed confidence that all civil servants in Bogor understand and comply with the prohibition.

Iran's Succession Heats Up: Donald Trump Calls Mojtaba Khamenei 'Unacceptable'

Iran's Assembly of Experts has officially appointed Mojtaba Khamenei as the third Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic following his father Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death in a US-Israeli airstrike. The appointment has triggered strong international condemnation, with US President Donald Trump calling the succession "unacceptable" and demanding a leader who would bring stability to the region, whilst Israel has threatened to target any successor to the late Supreme Leader.

Ten Districts in Tangerang City Affected by Flooding, Hundreds of Residents Evacuated

Heavy rainfall in Tangerang City from Saturday evening through Sunday morning caused extensive flooding across ten districts, with water levels ranging from 40 centimetres to over five metres in some areas. Approximately 285 families or around 900 people have been forced to evacuate to designated shelters, with the most severe flooding recorded in Periuk Damai residential area where embankment collapse has exacerbated the situation. Regional disaster management authorities are conducting ongoing mitigation efforts including water pumping, cross-agency coordination, and evacuation support.

Disaster Task Force Calls on Regional Administrations to Complete Beneficiary Data

Indonesia's Interior Minister Tito Karnavian, heading the Sumatra Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force, has urged regional governments to promptly complete data on affected disaster victims to expedite aid distribution. The first phase of assistance totalling nearly 900 billion rupiah includes compensation for fatalities, support for the injured, and living allowances for over 66,000 people, with regions submitting complete data fastest receiving priority in fund disbursement.

Batuceper Police Station Apprehends Motorcycle Theft Syndicate from Lampung Network in Tangerang

Police in Tangerang have arrested a member of a motorcycle theft syndicate allegedly operating from Lampung, after apprehending a suspect transporting a stolen Honda Beat Street motorcycle in the Poris Jaya area. The arrested suspect, identified as O (27), confessed to nine motorcycle thefts across various locations in the greater Jakarta area, with stolen vehicles intended for shipment to Tanggamus, Lampung. A second suspect remains at large and has been added to the wanted persons list, whilst police continue investigations to dismantle the broader criminal network.

Expert: Police Force Position Should Remain Directly Under President

A legal expert from Bhayangkara University Jakarta has argued that the Indonesian National Police (Polri) should continue to operate directly under the President's authority, with the Police Chief appointed and dismissed by the President following parliamentary approval. The expert rejected proposals to place Polri under a ministry or to allow presidential appointment of the Police Chief without parliamentary oversight, asserting that such changes would constitute a regression in constitutional law.

National Nutrition Agency States School Feeding Programme Ranked Second Globally, Surpassing China and United States

Indonesia's school feeding programme (MBG) has been ranked second globally by the World Food Programme, serving over 61 million beneficiaries with nearly 49 million being schoolchildren, behind only India's 118 million. The National Nutrition Agency emphasises this achievement represents the government's commitment to ensuring nutritious food access for every child and represents a long-term investment in building Indonesia's human resources quality. The ranking positions Indonesia ahead of major economies including Brazil, China, and the United States in terms of school feeding programme scale.

Monday Morning: 18 Residential Units and Two Roads in Jakarta Still Flooded

Heavy rainfall on 7-8 March 2026 caused flooding across Jakarta, with 18 residential units (RT) primarily in West Jakarta and two roads still submerged as of Monday morning. Water levels ranged from 30 to 80 centimetres in affected areas, with the flooding attributed to heavy rainfall and overflow from Angke Canal, forcing hundreds of residents to evacuate.

Frequently Anxious During Rain or Upon Hearing Disaster News? Psychologist Shares Coping Methods

Anxiety is a common response among residents of disaster-prone areas during uncertain weather or when disaster news emerges, with psychologists noting this as a natural protective mechanism. A psychologist recommends developing action plans such as emergency preparedness kits and employing the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique to help manage anxiety and restore a sense of control during uncertain situations.

New York Stock Exchange Operator Invests in OKX

Intercontinental Exchange Inc. (NYSE operator) has made a strategic investment in cryptocurrency and Web3 exchange OKX at a company valuation of US$25 billion, with ICE taking a board seat. The partnership aims to integrate traditional capital markets infrastructure with blockchain technology through four key pillars: tokenised US shares on OKX, licensing of OKX cryptocurrency prices for ICE futures, joint clearing and risk management solutions, and multi-chain custody development, with US equity tokens planned for launch in H2 2026.

Housing Development Task Force Says Housing Construction Has Major Economic Impact

The chairman of Indonesia's Housing Task Force, Hashim Djojohadikusumo, has stated that residential development can deliver substantial benefits to the national economy, with multiplier effects ranging from 1.5 to 5 times. The government's 3 Million Homes programme is expected to address housing shortages affecting approximately 27 million families in unsuitable housing, whilst leveraging property development's impact across 185 economic sectors to contribute between 1.5 and 2 per cent to national economic growth and support the government's 8 per cent growth target.

Trump and Xi Jinping to Meet Soon to Discuss Iran Conflict and Trade Tariffs

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are planning a high-level meeting to address the Iran conflict and trade tariff disputes, according to Chinese Foreign Affairs chief Wang Yi. Trump is scheduled to visit China from 31 March to 2 April 2026, marking the first visit by a sitting US president to China since 2017, though official confirmation from China is pending.

Yesterday, National Fuel Oil Stock and 140,000 Housing Units in Cikarang

Indonesia's National Energy Council reassured the public that the country's fuel oil stocks are adequate, with Pertamina maintaining stable supply reserves of approximately 20 days. Meanwhile, Danantara Investment Management prepared 16 trillion rupiah to develop 140,000 low-income housing units on donated land in Cikarang, West Java, reflecting government commitment to affordable housing.

Vice President Gibran Visits Port and Production Facility Development Project in Tuban

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming visited a major port and cement production facility development project by PT Semen Indonesia (SIG) and its subsidiary PT Solusi Bangun Indonesia in Tuban, East Java, which is 99 per cent complete. The Rp 1.4 trillion investment—a joint venture with Japanese cement giant Taiheiyo Cement Corporation—will significantly expand export capacity from 450,000 tonnes to 1 million tonnes of cement annually, whilst enhancing Indonesia's competitive position in global markets amid domestic oversupply pressures.

Indonesian Sharia Financing Records Positive Growth in Early 2026: OJK

Indonesia's Islamic finance sector showed mixed performance in early 2026, with sharia financing in the multifinance sector surging 10.59 percent year-on-year to IDR 30.87 trillion, driven primarily by murabahah buy-sell contracts. However, the Islamic capital market declined, with the Indonesian Sharia Stock Index falling 5.09 percent year-to-date, though other sharia instruments including government bonds, corporate bonds, and mutual funds continued to grow.

Global oil price pressures prompt Finance Minister to consider raising fuel prices and reviewing meal programme spending

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has warned that escalating Middle Eastern conflict and rising global oil prices could strain Indonesia's state budget, potentially increasing the deficit to 3.6-3.7 per cent of GDP if oil reaches $92 per barrel. The government is considering multiple fiscal responses including adjusting subsidised fuel prices, reallocating budget expenditure, and reviewing spending efficiency in the free meal programme (MBG) if pressure on the budget intensifies.

Education as Investment?

This article examines competing philosophical frameworks for understanding education, contrasting the instrumental "investment" perspective—where education is valued for future economic returns—with alternative views emphasising education's intrinsic value for human development, democratic citizenship, and social liberation. The author argues that whilst the human capital investment model dominates contemporary policy, education must be balanced with humanistic considerations and recognised as a transformative social process rather than merely an economic instrument.

Schools as Recovery Spaces

Post-disaster education requires holistic approaches that address both academic recovery and psychosocial wellbeing of affected students and teachers. A collaborative effort between Indonesia's Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education and the Language Centre demonstrates the integration of literacy activities, counselling, and art therapy as concrete recovery strategies, exemplified by practices at SMP Sukma Bangsa Bireuen in Aceh.

UKMPPD: Guardian of Quality or Barrier to Medical Qualifications?

Indonesia's medical competency examination (UKMPPD) has created significant controversy by linking degree conferral to a national exam administered by an ad hoc committee rather than universities themselves, raising fundamental questions about academic autonomy. Approximately 2,300 medical graduates remain unable to obtain their degrees and face potential expulsion if they fail the exam within five years of completing their clinical training, creating mental health crises and questioning whether a professional licensing test should determine academic degree awarding rights. The article argues that whilst competency testing is legitimate for professional practice, it should be separated from degree conferral, which remains the exclusive authority of universities under Indonesian higher education regulations.

Bekasi City Police Confirm Four Deaths from Bantargebang Landfill Collapse

A catastrophic collapse of accumulated waste at the Bantargebang integrated waste processing facility in Bekasi on Sunday, 8 March, has claimed at least four confirmed deaths, with authorities suspecting up to ten people may be buried beneath the rubble. The incident buried a coffee stall and several waste collection trucks, with ongoing search and rescue operations involving multiple government agencies and emergency services.

Nurses beyond borders: The Philippine dilemma – wanted worldwide, needed at home

Filipino nurses, highly sought after globally, are emigrating in large numbers for better pay and working conditions, leaving the Philippines facing a critical shortage of approximately 160,000 nurses despite having 300,000–350,000 nationals working abroad. The exodus reflects systemic challenges at home including low salaries, limited permanent positions, and poor work-life balance, whilst contributing significant remittances of around US$8 billion annually to the Philippine economy. The global nursing shortage is intensifying, with 78% of the world's nurses concentrated in wealthy nations, whilst African and Eastern Mediterranean regions face the most severe deficits.

Weather Forecast for 9 March 2026: Two Tropical Cyclone Seeds Surrounding Indonesia, 6 Regions on Alert for Extremely Heavy Rain

The Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a weather forecast for Monday, 9 March 2026, warning of two tropical cyclone seeds affecting atmospheric dynamics across the archipelago. Tropical Cyclone Seed 93S south of Lampung and Seed 95W north of Papua are driving massive cloud formation and heavy rainfall potential across six regions, prompting the agency to issue extreme weather alerts and advise the public to remain vigilant against hydrometeorological hazards including flooding and landslides. The public is urged to monitor official BMKG channels for the latest weather updates and maintain preparedness in vulnerable areas.

Private Land Rights Can Be Seized by State if Converted into Settlement Areas

Land certificates (SHM) representing private ownership are generally exempt from government seizure for abandoned land reclamation, but can be regularised if the land has been long neglected and developed into residential settlements. The Head of Land Acquisition at the Land Bank Authority explained that whilst private land rights fall outside abandoned land enforcement, special circumstances apply when SHM overlaps with established community housing, allowing the government to regularise tenure and grant formal property rights to long-term residents.

Trans Sulawesi National Road in Donggala Ready to Receive Homecoming Travellers

The Trans Sulawesi National Road in Donggala Regency, Central Sulawesi, has been rehabilitated and is prepared to accommodate homecoming travellers during the Eid al-Fitr holiday season. The road, which connects Central Sulawesi, West Sulawesi, and South Sulawesi whilst reducing travel time by up to an hour, has undergone rehabilitation work to ensure comfort for travellers navigating the mountainous terrain.

Prabowo Holds Five Meetings Discussing Middle East Conflict to Mudik Preparations

President Prabowo Subianto convened five separate cabinet meetings at his Hambalang residence in Bogor on 8 March 2026, addressing higher education development, Middle Eastern geopolitical tensions, and readiness for the Idul Fitri exodus. Key agenda items included progress on ten new STEM-focused universities, support for Palestinian students studying in Indonesia, and government preparedness measures for the anticipated holiday travel period. The president emphasised the importance of cross-ministerial coordination to advance national priorities in education, technology, geopolitics, and public services.

Assembly of Experts Formally Appoints Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran's New Supreme Leader

Iran's Assembly of Experts has formally appointed Mojtaba Khamenei as the new Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran on 9 March 2026, replacing his father Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a U.S.-Israeli attack on 28 February 2026. The appointment was made unanimously by the Assembly despite ongoing security threats and the bombing of the Assembly's secretariat, emphasising continuity of Iran's Islamic system governance.

Officially Confirmed: Mojtaba Khamenei Becomes Supreme Leader of Iran Amid US-Israel Threats

Iran's clerical establishment has officially appointed Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, aged 56, as the country's new Supreme Leader nine days after his father Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in US-Israeli airstrikes, with the Assembly of Experts emphasising the decision was unanimous despite international pressure. US President Donald Trump had previously demanded approval over Iran's succession and warned the appointment would not last without American consent, whilst Tehran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi insisted the matter was purely an internal Iranian affair. The appointment comes amid escalating regional tensions, with Israeli forces striking Iranian oil facilities overnight, causing at least four deaths and severe air pollution in Tehran, whilst the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps claims sufficient resources to sustain drone and missile operations for the next six months.

It Is Time for Indonesia to Revive the Non-Aligned Movement

The article argues that Indonesia should revitalise the Non-Aligned Movement in response to escalating geopolitical tensions and the re-emergence of bloc politics globally. Drawing on Indonesia's historical role in founding the movement alongside leaders such as Sukarno, the piece contends that Indonesia's doctrine of independent and active foreign policy positions it uniquely to champion developing nations' autonomy amid rivalries between the United States, China, and Russia.

New Video Allegedly Reveals US Missile Involvement in Deadly Minab Attack

Circulating footage appears to show a Tomahawk-style missile hitting an IRGC base in Minab, Iran, near a primary school where 160 pupils died on February 28. The video challenges Donald Trump's claim that Iran was behind the attack, with analysts saying the munition resembles a Tomahawk TLAM.

Tek-Tekan Nangkluk Merana Tradition Struggles Ahead of Nyepi in Kediri, Tabanan

The sacred Tek-Tekan Nangkluk Merana tradition in Kediri Village, Tabanan, Bali, is being held to ward off disease and pests ahead of the Nyepi festival. The six-day ritual, running from 12-17 March 2026, involves residents from seven banjar (neighbourhoods) circling the village whilst sounding traditional instruments, and serves both as a purification ceremony and a community-building activity that reinforces the transmission of ancestral heritage.

Dozens of Bank Employees Fired Over Fake Keyboard Devices

Wells Fargo reportedly dismissed dozens of employees after investigating claims that they used fake keyboard devices to simulate activity and appear productive while working remotely. The devices, known as mouse jigglers, keep computers awake and prevent sleep mode, raising broader concerns about remote work engagement highlighted by Gallup. The case references a filing to FINRA and underscores a strict stance on unethical conduct.

There Are Still Many Misconceptions About Breaking the Fast, Doctor Debunks This Myth

Clinical nutritionist Dr Ida Gunawan explains that not everyone who fasts experiences a drop in blood sugar, so breaking the fast with large amounts of sugar is a myth. She advises choosing natural sugars from fruit, staying hydrated, and limiting fried foods to avoid excessive calories and throat irritation, promoting a healthier Ramadan.

Prabowo summons several ministers to Hambalang, what’s going on?

President Prabowo Subianto convened five meetings with ministers from the Red-and-White Cabinet at his private Hambalang residence. The discussions ranged from Eid al-Fitr homecoming security to the expansion of science-and-technology campuses, improvements to state universities, and Indonesia’s Middle East geopolitics, including a programme for Palestinian students at Universitas Pertahanan.

BREAKING NEWS: Mojtaba Khamenei Officially Appointed as Iran's Supreme Leader

Mojtaba Khamenei has been named the new Supreme Leader by Iran's Assembly of Experts following broad consensus and an extensive internal study. The announcement calls for loyalty to the new leadership and stresses unity around a ‘axis of peace’.

Solo–Jogja KRL timetable from 9 to 12 March 2026

The Solo–Jogja KRL timetable for 9–12 March 2026 lists multiple daily departures from stations including Palur, Solo Jebres, Solo Balapan, Purwosari, Delanggu, Ceper, Klaten, Srowot, Maguwo and Lempuyangan heading to Yogyakarta, spanning early morning to late evening. The timetable is drawn from official PT KAI data; travellers are advised to check the latest schedule before travel to avoid missing trains and disruptions.

Tense relations: Keir Starmer and Donald Trump speak by phone for the first time

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer spoke by telephone with US President Donald Trump, their first direct contact since Trump criticised Britain's handling of the Middle East. The leaders discussed the Middle East situation and agreed to use UK bases for defensive purposes; reactions at home and abroad highlighted fault lines in the alliance as the crisis escalates.

Brutal Jewish settlers kill three Palestinian civilians

Three Palestinians were killed by Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank over the weekend, with a fourth dying after inhaling tear gas fired by Israeli forces. The attacks, centred on Masafer Yatta and Ramallah, drew condemnation from Palestinian officials and Hamas, as tensions rise amid regional conflict.

This morning, the odd-even traffic scheme returns on 25 Jakarta roads

Jakarta reintroduces the odd-even traffic restrictions on 25 major roads for the week of 9–13 March 2026. The scheme operates on weekdays during morning and late-afternoon to evening hours, with penalties up to Rp 500,000 for violations under UU LLAJ No. 22 of 2009.

Russia's intelligence information to help Iran attack the US and Trump's response

Russia is alleged to have supplied intelligence to Iran to assist Tehran in striking U.S. military assets in the Middle East. President Donald Trump downplayed the intelligence, saying it offered little help. The reports note potential Iranian use of the data to target American sites in the Gulf, but there is no proof Moscow directly directed Iran; if true, it would mark Russia's first indirect involvement in the conflict following the US–Israel strikes on Iran.

Tensions Rise as Trump Demands a Role in Selecting Iran's New Leader

Following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, tensions have escalated as the United States warns that any successor in Tehran must obtain Washington's approval. Iran's Assembly of Experts says it has chosen a successor but has not publicly announced a name; Mojtaba Khamenei is widely tipped as the leading candidate. The conflict has intensified with strikes and mounting civilian casualties, highlighting a dangerous regional crisis.

Global Oil Prices Surge, Economist: Purchasing Power Under Pressure and Economic Growth Slows

Global oil prices are rising, potentially weighing on Indonesia's economic growth through higher living and production costs across sectors. An economist from UPN Veteran Jakarta warns of a domino effect from energy prices, which could erode household purchasing power and raise production costs in manufacturing, transport, and services, prompting firms to delay investments amid global uncertainty.

Sinar Jaya Bus Fares Rise Ahead of Lebaran Mudik Peak 2026

Bus operator Sinar Jaya has started raising ticket prices ahead of Lebaran 2026, with fare surcharges implemented gradually from mid-March and peaking on 16–19 March. The increases vary by route and service type, with notable hikes on the Jakarta–Yogyakarta and Jakarta–Semarang routes as demand for mudik travel rises.

Cirebon Fisherman Discovers Rp720 Billion Treasure in the Java Sea

A fisherman from Cirebon, while fishing in the Java Sea in 2003, hauled a net heavy with ceramics that turned out to be cargo from a sunken ship. Private archaeological work with government permission revealed a vast hoard of treasure—allegedly including Chinese Tang-era ceramics, pearls, gems, and gold—worth about Rp720 billion, in what is known as the Cirebon Wreck. The find offers insight into maritime trade between Sriwijaya, Tang China, and the wider region.

This Week's Jogja-Solo KRL Schedule, 9-15 March 2026

The Jogja-Solo KRL timetable for 9–15 March 2026 lists 12 stops and 15 daily services on the Jogja–Solo route, departing from Stasiun Tugu in Yogyakarta. One service, KA 730 F, operates only on weekdays; it does not run on Saturdays, Sundays or public holidays. Commuters are advised to check the official Commuter Line site or the C-Access app for any last-minute changes.

Explosion at US Embassy in Oslo, Police Probe Possible Terror Attack

An explosion at the United States Embassy in Oslo early on Sunday caused minor damage but no injuries. Norwegian police say terrorism is a leading hypothesis but investigators are keeping an open mind as they search for evidence; Norway and the United States have condemned the incident and pledged cooperation.

Cak Imin Highlights Jakarta's Public Transport Problems: Waiting for PKB's Governor

PKB chairman Muhaimin Iskandar criticises Jakarta's public transport, arguing that unreliable services push residents to consider leaving the capital. He says the capital's transport issues persist despite varying governors and calls PKB cadres to take action under the party's 'Jakarta's Future' campaign.

US-Iran Conflict Disrupts the Strait of Hormuz, Aramco Reroutes Oil Exports to Yanbu

Saudi Aramco has temporarily rerouted some crude shipments to Yanbu Industrial Port amid ongoing disruption in the Strait of Hormuz due to US-Iran tensions. The move aims to enhance security and preserve global oil supply, with Bloomberg data showing five large tankers loading at Yanbu this month and exports from the port tripling versus February.

Zendhy Kusuma: The Bibi Kelinci Case Impacts Our Family and Our Work

Gitarist Zendhy Kusuma laments online backlash after a video of an incident at the Bibi Kelinci restaurant went viral, saying the clip does not show the full context. He says he will report the matter to the Cybercrime Directorate of Bareskrim Polri under the Information and Electronic Transactions Law (UU ITE) on 30 September 2025 to seek justice, and asks for public understanding. He apologises for any disturbance, especially during Ramadan, and says the moment should be spent in introspection.

Jaecoo Prepares 7-Seater SUV for the Indonesian Market

Jaecoo plans to broaden its Indonesian line with two seven-seat SUVs to sustain momentum after the J5 EV. The models aim to reinforce Jaecoo's rugged off-road identity and meet Indonesian families' mobility needs, with launches planned from this year to next. The move illustrates Chery Group Indonesia's strategy to expand its SUV portfolio in the domestic market.

Mahfud on Yaqut Case: KPK Leadership Not Authorized to Appoint a Suspect

Former Constitutional Court chief Mahfud MD criticised the KPK leadership for naming a suspect in the additional Hajj quota case involving former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas (Gus Yaqut), arguing that only investigators may charge suspects. He urged that the case proceed strictly under the rules, warning against criminalisation and arbitrary enforcement. He also questioned the substantive claim, saying the Hajj quota does not constitute state loss, and defended the minister's discretionary power; Yaqut has filed a pre-trial challenging three KPK investigation warrants.

Possible rain: Check BMKG Bali weather forecast for today, 9 March 2026

The BMKG Bali forecast indicates cloudy to light rain across Bali on Monday, 9 March 2026, with temperatures of 18–30°C and humidity ranging from 68–99%. The bulletin breaks down conditions by regency, with Badung, Denpasar, Buleleng, Jembrana, Karangasem, Klungkung experiencing light rain, while Bangli, Gianyar, and Tabanan are forecast to be cloudy.

Difficulty Sleeping and Quick to Anger: Signs of Trauma After a Disaster

Disaster survivors may show trauma through subtle signs beyond tears, including sleep disturbances, headaches, and digestive issues, as psychologists warn. The piece highlights emotional volatility, numbness, survivor's guilt, and persistent worst-case thinking as telltale indicators requiring awareness of mental health after disasters.

Ten Countries Most 'Hooked' on Chinese Goods, Where Does Indonesia Rank?

Indonesia ranks ninth in a global survey of import dependency on China, with 31.4% of its imports coming from the country. The report highlights how 128 nations rely on China for at least 10% of their imports, driven by limited domestic manufacturing and China's role in supply chains, as well as Beijing-funded infrastructure through the Belt and Road Initiative. The piece also notes China's shift from a producer of cheap goods to a major exporter of technology, including chips and mobile devices.

Indonesia’s Largest Toll Road Rest Area, Check Out Its Facilities

Travoy KM 88B, on the Japek–Cipularang corridor, is marketed as Indonesia’s widest toll road rest area. It features 14 SPKLU charging nozzles, four toilet locations, and a mosque seating around 500 worshippers, while serving as an overflow point for nearby rest areas during peak periods; it also hosts several commercial tenants and plans further SPKLU expansion.

Five Facts About Jakarta Floods on 8 March 2026

Heavy rainfall in Jakarta, measured at 264 mm, triggered floods that inundated at least 148 RTs and 20 road segments, with water depths reaching up to 150 cm. Authorities deployed around 1,200 pumps, announced river normalisation projects to mitigate future floods, and evacuations for vulnerable residents were conducted as underpasses and transit routes were temporarily disrupted.

Illegal Travel Case Highlights Mudik Risks of Using Unlicensed Transport

As the Mudik season for Eid approaches, warnings about unlicensed 'travel gelap' operators re-emerge after a viral video. A woman claimed to be a victim of an illegal operator, then fled when the vehicle wandered and demanded payment mid-journey; transport experts urged caution and verification of vehicles’ roadworthiness and registration (KIR/SPIONAM).

Today's Imsakiyah Schedule, 9 March 2026: Morning Blessings for Jakarta Residents

Jakarta residents are advised of the imsak and daily prayer timetable for 9 March 2026, ahead of Subuh at 04:43 and with imsak at 04:33 WIB. The schedule for 19 Ramadhan 1447 H lists Subuh, Terbit, Dhuha, Dzuhur, Ashar, Maghrib and Isya, emphasising sahur as a blessed pre-dawn practice. The piece also promotes Qur'an reading via Republika Digital Al-Quran and cites credible sources from Bimas Islam.

Study Reveals Differences in the Faces of the Rich and the Poor

A Toronto-based study found that observers could guess a person’s wealth from neutral facial cues with about 68% accuracy, even when the faces showed no emotion. The researchers warn that such face-based judgments could reinforce stereotypes and worsen inequality, highlighting ethical concerns over appearance-based profiling.

Cak Imin Inaugurates PKB DKI Office, Applauds Securing Seats in DPR and DPRD

Muhaimin Iskandar inaugurated PKB DKI Jakarta’s new Regional Leadership Board office in Pulogadung, East Jakarta, hailing the party’s win of 10 seats in the DPRD and 2 seats in the DPR RI. He quipped about who deserves the credit for the success and praised Hasbiallah Ilyas’s leadership, noting two PKB DKI cadres now sit in the DPR RI— Ida Fauziyah, who is currently on Umrah, and Hasbi’s ally.

Brigadier Nurhadi Death Case Concludes as Colonel Yogi Sentenced to 14 Years Imprisonment

A court in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, has sentenced two police officers in connection with the death of Brigadier Muhammad Nurhadi: I Gde Aris Chandra Widianto received eight years imprisonment for aggravated assault and obstruction of evidence, whilst I Made Yogi Purusa Utama received 14 years for murder. Both defendants were ordered to pay 385 million rupiah in restitution to the victim's heirs, with the possibility of additional imprisonment if payment is not made within 30 days.

Retired JICT Employee Killed in a Robbery in Bekasi; Police Probe Suspected Premeditated Murder

Police are investigating a brutal Bekasi robbery that left Ermanto Usman, a 65-year-old retired Jakarta International Container Terminal (JICT) employee, dead and his wife critically injured. Authorities say they are exploring possible links to a premeditated murder, with a widened joint task force including Bareskrim and regional police. Ermanto's family has sought protection from the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK).

First free Situbondo–Madura Eid ferry carries 331 passengers

The East Java provincial government operated a free mudik ferry service from Jangkar to Raas Island on Sunday night, carrying 331 passengers and 122 motorcycles, with further dates announced for the service. A passenger from Raas welcomed the initiative as a help for homecoming during Eid, and officials said the programme runs annually.

Imsak Schedule Today, 9 March 2026, Marking the Dawn in Bandung

The article presents Bandung's Imsak schedule for 19 Ramadhan 1447 H and emphasises sahur practices, including a hadith on sahur and guidance to read the Qur'an after Subuh; it cites Republika's Imsakiyah and Bimas Islam as sources.

Floods Submerge Four Districts in Cilegon, Residents Evacuated

Heavy rain in Cilegon, Banten, since Saturday (7 March) has caused widespread flooding. Four districts—Grogol, Ciwandan, Cibeber and Jombang—are affected, with around 1,700 people in Jombang area impacted and hundreds evacuated; an embankment breach has forced evacuations, though no casualties are reported.

Imsakiyah Timetable for Today, 9 March 2026, Yogyakarta: Spirit for Morning Worship

The article lists the daily Imsakiyah timetable for Yogyakarta on 9 March 2026, including times for Imsak, Subuh, Terbit, and the daytime prayers. It also highlights a hadith on sahur, emphasising its spiritual and physical value, notes the timetable’s verification, and directs readers to Republika’s Imsakiyah and Digital Qur’an for daily spiritual guidance.

These 5 stern warnings in the Qur'an for those who like to show off

A CNBC Indonesia feature outlines five Qur'anic cautions against riya', or showing off, as a motive in acts of charity and worship. It cites verses from Surah Al-Baqarah, Al-Ma'un, An-Nisa', and Al-Anfal to explain that intention determines the value of deeds and that seeking admiration can nullify rewards in the sight of Allah.

Today's Imsak Timetable: 9 March 2026 in Semarang, Seek Blessings with Sahur

The article presents Semarang's Imsak schedule for 9 March 2026, listing times for Imsak, Subuh, Terbit, Dhuha, Dzuhur, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha. It emphasises sahur as recommended in Islam, cites a hadith, and notes that the timetable is sourced from Imsakiyah Republika and Bimas Islam, while promoting Qur'an reading via Republika's Digital Qur'an.

No Longer a Suspect, Nabilah O'Brien Appreciates Support from the Chair of DPR Commission III

Nabilah O'Brien, owner of a Kemang restaurant, and a couple reportedly involved in alleged food theft have settled their dispute after mediation by Bareskrim. The case previously included a charge under the UU ITE for sharing CCTV footage; the parties withdrew their reports, and O'Brien’s suspect status was dropped. She praised Habiburrokhman, the chair of DPR Commission III, for his support and did not confirm attendance at an upcoming RDPU.

Imsak Timetable for Today, 9 March 2026: The Virtue of Waking Early for Suhoor in Surabaya

Surabaya's imsak schedule for 9 March 2026 is published, listing times for Imsak and daily prayers. The article highlights the Prophet's teaching on suhoor and emphasises the importance of observing Imsak before dawn, drawing on Republika's imsakiyah. It also notes the availability of Republika's Digital Quran to accompany daily spiritual practice.

Israel strike hits the heart of an Arab state, targets Iranian commander

Israel has carried out an attack in central Beirut, hitting the Ramada Plaza hotel and killing at least four people, with ten wounded. Reuters reports the strike targeted senior commanders of Iran's Quds Force, though their names were not disclosed; Israel had earlier claimed to have killed a Quds Force commander in Lebanon. The attack marks the first major strike on Beirut since renewed Israel-Hezbollah hostilities, and Lebanon says Hizbollah-linked actions are expanding the conflict with Iran.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Says Ceasefire Request from US-Israel Will Be Rejected, Here’s Why

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says Tehran will reject any new ceasefire requests from the United States and Israel, arguing that last year's ceasefire did not resolve the conflict. He says the current situation differs and calls for a permanent halt to the war and resumption of negotiations only after the aggressors explain why they started the war, emphasising Iran's right to self-defence.

Ramadan visit to Az-Zainiyyah pesantren: Its role is significant, predating Indonesia’s independence

Golkar General Chairman Bahlil Lahadalia visited the Az-Zainiyyah pesantren during Ramadan, emphasising that pesantren play a major role in shaping national character and have existed since before Indonesia's independence. He also highlighted government support for pesantren, including a Free Nutritious Meals programme for santri, under President Prabowo.

Optimization of Oil and Gas Assets, SAKA Targets 24,000 BOEPD Production Throughout 2026

SAKA targets net production of 24,000 BOEPD in 2026, up about 10.4% from 2025, as part of its strategy to sustain production and bolster national energy security. The plan will be driven by field optimisation, new drilling, workovers, and improved operational reliability, with the UPA-17ST development well at WK Pangkah already onstream yielding around 2,430 BOPD and 2.3 MMSCFD of gas. SAKA also advanced exploration and site preparation, including geophysical and geotechnical surveys at WK Pekawai.

Restaurant Owner Reaches Peace with Couple: I'm No Longer a Suspect, I Forgive

A Kemang restaurant owner and a husband-and-wife duo who were accused of theft have settled their dispute at the Indonesian National Police Headquarters. The owner, Nabilah O'Brien, had briefly been named a suspect after posting CCTV footage; both sides withdrew their police reports and agreed to delete related posts on social media. The incident, which occurred in September 2025, involved a claimed theft of food worth IDR 530,150.

Housing Minister Extends Home Loan Tenor to 30 Years

The Housing and Settlement Areas Ministry has extended the subsidy housing loan tenor to 30 years following President Prabowo Subianto's instruction to be pro-people. The move is intended to accelerate the 3 Million Homes Programme and includes measures such as land provision and partnerships, including with Lippo Group to develop 140,000 units of vertical housing. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa welcomed the policy, saying the longer tenor will widen access to housing credit, reduce instalments, and help more people buy homes.

Raja Juli Highlights Islamic Teachings on Protecting the Environment

PSI Secretary-General and Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni argues that Islamic teachings require protecting the environment and forests, framing environmental stewardship as a moral and religious duty. He calls for eco-theology in national policy, pledging stronger forest governance and measures to prevent floods and landslides in Sumatra.

Imsak Schedule for Kupang City and the NTT Region on Monday 9 March / 19 Ramadan

The article lists Imsak and Subuh times for Kupang City and surrounding districts for 9 March 2026 (19 Ramadan 1447H), citing the official Kemenag RI Bimas Islam timetable. It also provides guidance on sahur, information on accessing Imsak schedules across Indonesia via DetikHikmah, and the Ramadhan niat with transliterations and translations, noting sponsorship by Bank Syariah Indonesia.

Subsidised Rusun Officially Under Construction in Meikarta as a Pilot Project

The government has begun construction of subsidised rumah susun (rusun) in Meikarta, Bekasi, as part of the Three Million Homes Programme. The project is pitched as a pilot collaboration between the government, private sector, and financiers to deliver affordable housing, with initial works on around 12.8 hectares and plans for 18 towers, each around 32 storeys tall, at an estimated investment of Rp14-16 trillion. Similar schemes are planned for Depok, and the project is expected to generate substantial economic activity and showcase a model of cross‑sector collaboration.

Police Uncover Motorcycle and Mobile Phone Belonging to Skeletonised Woman Found in Depok

Police found the body of a 56-year-old woman identified as DH, skeletal in Meruyung, Depok. A Suzuki Address motorcycle (plate B-6613-ZME) and the victim’s mobile phone were missing from the scene, with the BPKB pledged as loan collateral. The victim reportedly lived with a live-in husband whose whereabouts are unknown, and coffee powder was found on the body; the case is being investigated with lines of inquiry including domestic disputes and the husband’s whereabouts.

Understanding How Shariah Mutual Funds Work and the Principles of Sharia-Compliant Investment

The article explains how Shariah mutual funds operate under Indonesian regulation, including oversight by OJK and Shariah boards, and the cleansing mechanism to remove non-halal income. It highlights ethical investment aligned with Islamic law, and notes Manulife Asset Management Indonesia's experience, including Rp298.7 million allocated to social projects in 2025.

A Victory of Restraint: The Liberation of Mecca, Ramadan 8 AH

History repeatedly frames victory as a perilous moment, but the Mecca liberation during Ramadan in 8 AH is recast here as a demonstration of restraint and moral leadership. The piece argues that true change comes not from seizing power but from how power is wielded, with forgiveness and justice shaping the arc of history.

Kholidin Aims for Asian Para Games 2026 Gold

Indonesian para-archer Kholidin is targeting gold at the 2026 Asian Para Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. After winning two golds and a silver at the ASEAN Para Games in Thailand two months earlier, he is ramping up training with NPC Jakarta Pusat to translate regional success onto the Asian stage.

China's economic and environmental development in the eyes of Indonesian students

Indonesian students in Jiangxi observe how China integrates green technologies and environmental protection with rapid growth, highlighting the country’s advanced infrastructure such as high-speed rail. They see potential for Indonesia in collaboration on clean energy, digital economy, education, and transport, underscoring the value of study exchanges for bilateral ties.

Experts say Prabowo, Pakistan PM's Tehran plan offers hope for peace

An Indonesia-Pakistan diplomatic initiative to de-escalate Middle East tensions could act as a small beacon of peace, says an international relations expert from Padjadjaran University. The plan, involving President Prabowo and Pakistan's PM Shehbaz Sharif visiting Tehran, aims to anchor de-escalation in international law and coordinate with regional bodies to shape UN action. The move underscores the broader role of D-8 diplomacy and the potential impact on global public diplomacy.

Iran’s Internet Outage Extends to 192 Hours as Blackout Enters Second Week

NetBlocks reports nine consecutive days of internet disruption in Iran as the blackout enters its second week. The outage unfolds amid intensifying regional hostilities that threaten global energy markets and international air connectivity. Indonesia says it is monitoring the situation and has prepared mitigation measures to safeguard energy supply.

NPC Central Jakarta honours gold medallists at APG 2026

NPC Central Jakarta hosted an appreciation ceremony for two gold medallists from APG 2026, table tennis player Komet Akbar and para-archer Kholidin, who each claimed two golds and one silver. Indonesia topped archery at APG 2026, while Jakarta’s athletes shone at PEPARPENAS 2025, and the event underscored continued government support for athlete development ahead of the Asian Para Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.

Expand MSME access, Coordinating Minister Muhaimin develops Pasar 1.001 Malam model

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar advocates expanding the Pasar 1.001 Malam model to widen market access for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). He frames the ecosystem as a collaboration among entrepreneurs, investors and large industry to boost the national economy, during the closing of the Festival Jejak Jajanan Nusantara at Gelora Bung Karno. A pilot project under Jejak Jajanan Nusantara is intended to strengthen community economic empowerment and promote the use of strategic public spaces by MSMEs, with the inaugural Pasar 1.001 Malam planned for 11-13 March 2026 in Aceh.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi: Iran Will Not Surrender Unconditionally to the United States

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterates Tehran's hard-line stance against US pressure, stating Iran will not surrender unconditionally and will defend its sovereignty. He says diplomacy with Washington is possible only on fair terms and emphasises ending the war; Tehran denies closing the Hormuz Strait amid ongoing nuclear talks in Geneva.

Settlement with the thief who made her a suspect, Instagram celebrity Nabilah O'Brien: So Exhausted

Instagram influencer Nabilah O’Brien has reached a peaceful settlement with the alleged thief who briefly named her a suspect. Mediation at Bareskrim Polri resolved the dispute, with the police report withdrawn as part of the agreement and Nabilah forgiving all parties. She said she is no longer a suspect and hinted she will resume her work, thanking those who assisted.

Foreign Ministry Urges Thorough Investigation into Explosion of Vessel in the Strait of Hormuz

The Indonesian Foreign Ministry has urged a thorough, joint investigation into the explosion and fire aboard the UAE-flagged tug Musaffah 2, in which Indonesian crew were aboard. Jakarta reports that several Indonesian nationals are missing and coordinates with UAE and Oman authorities while monitoring the situation and advising Indonesian seafarers in the region to stay vigilant.

Cak Imin: President Joins Board of Peace to Maximise Indonesia's Role

Muhaimin Iskandar says President Prabowo Subianto is maximising Indonesia's role for peace in Palestine through membership of the Board of Peace, while Jakarta continues to provide aid to Gaza. He argues that the President's diplomacy seeks new routes to ensure aid reaches its target, not only relying on air-dropped assistance. He also frames global diplomacy as supporting the national economy, including an agreement with the United States to safeguard national interests.

International Women's Day Expected to Be a Moment to Strengthen Women's Economic Empowerment

On International Women's Day 2026, the G20 EMPOWER Alliance reiterates its commitment to strengthen collaboration between government and the private sector to advance women's economic empowerment. Indonesia's 2022 presidency marked a milestone, elevating women entrepreneurs as key drivers of growth, with initiatives such as the Best Practice Playbook, Showcase Women-Led Businesses, and the KPI Dashboard; under South Africa's presidency the theme UHURU emphasises leadership, women-owned enterprises, inclusive procurement, and expanding digital and STEAM inclusion, while acknowledging ongoing challenges including financing gaps and under-representation in decision-making, and the need to accelerate access to the digital economy.

Promoting healthy living, residents invited to NgabubuRUN Jejak Jajanan Nusantara

Coordinating Minister for People's Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar invites the public to fill the pre-iftar period by joining NgabubuRUN at Gelora Bung Karno, as part of the Festival Jejak Jajanan Nusantara. He emphasises exercising during Ramadan and discusses preventive health benefits and cost savings, with the event running 6-8 March 2026 at GBK, Jakarta.

Cak Imin Urges GBK Area to Expand Access for SMEs: At Least 30%

Muhaimin Iskandar, the Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment, closed the Jejak Jajanan Kuliner (JJN) 2026 event at the Gelora Bung Karno Complex and announced that UMKM events would be routinely held at state-owned public facilities, with a minimum of 30% of space reserved for UMKM access. He described GBK as a largely open public space and said such facilities should be set aside for UMKM activities as a form of national service, with the land used for community engagement. He noted broad support for Jejak Jajanan Nusantara and highlighted collaboration among BUMN, the central government, SMEs, and productive homemakers, with Aceh and other regions set to follow.

Jakarta forecast to be sunny from Monday afternoon to evening

BMKG forecasts mostly sunny conditions across Jakarta on Monday, with morning cloud and variable afternoon and evening conditions by district; Central Jakarta remains partly cloudy while South Jakarta may experience light rain in the afternoon, and Kepulauan Seribu stays cloudier into the night. The night is expected to bring clear to partly cloudy skies in most areas, and the Tuesday early hours could bring more cloud and thunder in Kepulauan Seribu.

KAI Daop 8 Introduces Mudik Promotion with Discounts of Up to 30 Percent

The Ramadan Festive promo by KAI Daop 8 Surabaya offers mudik discounts of up to 30% and a flash sale on 9 March 2026, with fares starting at Rp150,000. The scheme runs for travel between 9 and 20 March 2026, subject to ticket availability and bookings via official KAI channels, including the Access by KAI app. Priority service fares are included in the promo, with separate dates for KAI Wisata’s Priority service.

Cikini Footpath Crowded by Illegal Parkers, Ojek Riders, and Street Vendors, Pedestrian Rights Compromised

Footpaths near Cikini Station in Central Jakarta are congested by illegal parkers, street vendors, and online motorcycle taxi riders waiting for passengers, undermining pedestrian safety. The city emphasises cross-agency enforcement and ongoing upgrades to improve accessibility and ensure the footpath serves all pedestrians, including people with disabilities.

Visiting a Sukabumi pesantren, Bahlil promises Golkar will push for LPDP to be maximised for santri

Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia visits the Az-Zainiyyah pesantren in Sukabumi and pledges that Golkar's faction will push for LPDP scholarships to be maximised for santri, aiming to broaden access beyond general education. He argues that quality is not exclusive to secular schools and highlights pesantren as capable institutions, as Golkar continues its Ramadan safari.

Salman Charity House Educates Garut Youths to Care for the Environment

Salman Charity House in Garut, West Java, hosted the Inspirational Talk Green Ramadhan to promote environmental awareness among local youths. The event encouraged practical steps such as waste reduction, minimalist living, and recycling, with experts and motivational figures emphasising ongoing attention to environmental issues.

Under Prabowo's Order, Forestry Minister Hands Over Social Forestry Decrees in NTB

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni handed six Social Forestry Decrees to six Forest Farmer Groups (KTH) in Lombok, NTB—one in West Lombok and five in East Lombok—covering a total area of 560.57 hectares for 411 households. He said President Prabowo ordered the acceleration of decree issuance to uplift local welfare while protecting forests, and urged farmers to cultivate crops such as coffee, cocoa, or candlenut. The government presents the programme as boosting livelihoods and food security while preserving forest conservation.