Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 April 2026

Showing 501-550 of 1,900 articles

Government Urged to Take Responsibility for Death of Riau Firefighter Muharmizan

The Jaringan Kerja Penyelamat Hutan Riau (Jikalahari) has expressed profound grief over the death of Muharmizan, a Manggala Agni firefighter, who succumbed while combating forest and land fires on Bengkalis Island on 30 March 2026, viewing the incident as a stark warning of failures in peat ecosystem management in Riau. Jikalahari criticises the dissolution of the Badan Restorasi Gambut dan Mangrove (BRGM) under President Prabowo's leadership and the provincial government's neglect of regulations, which have led to persistent hotspots, particularly in corporate concessions. The group demands urgent actions, including revising the spatial planning bylaw to protect peatlands and prevent further fatalities.

Hotels Empty! BPS Reveals Occupancy Drops to 44.89%, Here's the Culprit

Indonesia's Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) has reported a decline in star-rated hotel occupancy to 44.89% in February 2026, down 2.64% from January and 2.32% year-on-year, reflecting a slowdown in tourism and hospitality activities. The drop is attributed to the end of the Christmas and New Year holiday peak season, extreme weather, and the onset of Ramadan starting around 18-19 February, which has curbed travel. While most provinces saw declines, West Kalimantan, Bali, and Jakarta maintained the highest occupancy rates, and star-rated hotels outperformed non-starred ones nationally.

Ono Surono Witnesses KPK Search of His Home

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) conducted a search of the home of PDIP politician Ono Surono in Bandung, West Java, as part of an ongoing investigation into a bribery case involving advance payments for a project that implicates suspended Bekasi Regent Ade Kuswara Kunang. Ono Surono was present during the raid to witness any seizures of evidence, amid suspicions that he received funds from suspect Sarjan, a private sector figure already charged in the case. The probe has led to the arrest of three suspects, including the regent and his father, who allegedly received Rp 9.5 billion as project down payments, highlighting persistent corruption risks in local government procurement processes.

Baleg: Passage of Indigenous Peoples Bill Fulfils Republic's Promise

DPR RI's Legislation Body member I Nyoman Parta has described the ongoing discussion and passage of the Indigenous Peoples Bill as the fulfilment of a 81-year-old promise enshrined in Article 18B of the 1945 Constitution, which mandates regulation of indigenous communities' rights. He emphasised the need for a comprehensive understanding of indigenous living spaces, viewing them not merely as natural resources but as the foundation of Indonesian cultural identity and human-nature interactions. Nyoman urged DPR leadership to accelerate the process to prevent conflicts over resource management and ensure the bill's timely approval.

Indonesia and South Korea ministers seal clean energy cooperation

Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with South Korea to advance clean energy cooperation, focusing on renewable sources like solar, wind, and geothermal, as well as emerging technologies such as nuclear and hydrogen. The agreement, announced during a meeting between Presidents Prabowo Subianto and Lee Jae-myung in Seoul, aims to bolster energy sovereignty, technology transfer, and investment amid global tensions and fossil fuel volatility. This partnership highlights the complementary strengths of Indonesia's resources and market with South Korea's industrial expertise, exemplified by the operational US$1.1 billion EV battery factory in Karawang.

OJK Firmly Addresses Stock Price Manipulation, Vows Continued Investigations

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has reaffirmed its commitment to rigorously investigate and transparently publicise cases of suspected stock price manipulation, responding to concerns raised by members of the Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission XI. OJK's executive head for capital markets highlighted key indicators such as rapid price surges or drops without clear reasons, assuring that enforcement actions will be taken where evidence warrants. This stance addresses worries over practices like coordinated trading and syndicates that distort market fundamentals, potentially risking spillover effects into the banking sector.

Often Confused as the Same, Here Are the Differences Between Queue-Jockeying Services and Broker Practices

In Indonesia's fast-paced urban lifestyle, queue-jockeying services like Antriin.id are gaining popularity as a time-saving solution for accessing various services without waiting in line, but they are frequently mistaken for illegal brokering practices. Founder Elan Setiawan clarifies that these services only provide physical presence in queues without guaranteeing outcomes, distinguishing them from brokers who promise results. This misunderstanding highlights the need for public education on the legitimate nature of such businesses amid evolving consumer demands.

Queue Stand-ins Offer Shortcuts for Urban Residents...

In the fast-paced urban environment of Indonesia, a new app called Antriin.id is addressing the time-consuming hassle of long queues by connecting busy individuals with stand-ins who wait on their behalf for services like food pickups, hospital visits, and event tickets. Founded by Elan Setiawan based on personal experiences, the platform has grown since its launch in August 2025, offering flexible physical queuing services and specialised caregiver support in medical settings. This service reflects evolving urban lifestyles, providing quick solutions for viral product access while creating side income opportunities, though it highlights broader societal shifts in time valuation.

Judge: Former Supreme Court Secretary Nurhadi Had Interest in Gratuity Received via Son-in-Law

The Jakarta Corruption Court has sentenced former Supreme Court Secretary Nurhadi to five years in prison and a fine of Rp 500 million for receiving gratuities worth Rp 11.03 billion and money laundering amounting to Rp 308.1 billion. The judges determined that funds received by Nurhadi's son-in-law, Rezky Herbiyono, were intended for Nurhadi's benefit or joint interests, given their close family ties and shared living arrangements. This verdict underscores the judiciary's efforts to combat corruption within high-level institutions, requiring Nurhadi to also repay Rp 137.1 billion in restitution.

Amsal Sitepu Acquitted, Prosecutors Consider Appealing

A Medan court has acquitted videographer Amsal Christy Sitepu of corruption charges related to a village profile video project in North Sumatra's Karo Regency, ruling that the prosecution failed to prove the allegations. Prosecutors, who had sought a two-year prison sentence, a fine, and restitution of over Rp202 million, expressed respect for the verdict but are deliberating an appeal within seven days. This case underscores ongoing efforts to combat corruption in local government projects, with the acquittal restoring Sitepu's rights and reputation.

Pramono: WFH for Civil Servants Does Not Apply to Agencies Like Satpol PP and Fire Department

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced that the work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN) on Fridays will not apply to public service agencies such as Satpol PP, the Transportation Department, Health Department, and the Fire and Rescue Agency, which must continue normal operations. The policy targets administrative roles, with 25 to 50 percent of staff eligible for WFH, subject to strict monitoring, attendance via mobile systems, and sanctions for violations. This measure aims to balance remote working with essential public services in the capital.

Rubbish Piles at Kopro Market Cleared, Transportation Returns to Normal

Rubbish accumulations that had piled up beside Pasar Kopro in West Jakarta have been cleared, restoring normal waste transportation operations to the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Site. Local workers report that daily truck dispatches have resumed, preventing future build-ups following a temporary disruption at the landfill. The incident underscores ongoing challenges in Jakarta's waste management system, governed by DKI Jakarta Regional Regulation No. 3 of 2013, which imposes fines up to Rp500,000 for illegal dumping or burning.

Prosecutor Says Nadiem Failed to Implement JPN Recommendations in Chromebook Procurement

In an ongoing corruption trial, prosecutor Roy Riady has refuted former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim's claim that the Chromebook procurement for school digitalisation was supervised by state prosecutors (JPN) and followed procedures, stating that Nadiem ignored their recommendations, leading to rushed decisions and non-compliance with regulations. Public policy expert Yanuar Wijanarko described this disregard as gross negligence or potential intentional misconduct, risking significant state losses estimated at Rp2.1 trillion from overpriced Chromebooks and unnecessary content management systems. The case involves Nadiem and associates, highlighting systemic risks in public procurement and the importance of adhering to legal guidelines for good governance.

Progress on Manikin Dam Exceeds Target, Strengthening Food Security and Water in NTT

The construction of the Manikin Dam in Kupang Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, has reached 68.98 per cent completion, surpassing the target of 68.57 per cent, as reported by the Ministry of Public Works. This strategic infrastructure project, initiated in 2019 with a budget of approximately Rp 2.059 trillion, aims to enhance food security by providing reliable irrigation to 570.86 hectares of agricultural land, potentially increasing the cropping index from 200 to 300 per cent and boosting farmers' welfare. Additionally, the dam will supply 700 litres per second of raw water to Kupang City and Regency, mitigate flooding across 627 hectares, and support renewable energy development through floating solar panels and micro-hydro power generation.

Nusron Claims Electronic Services Reduce Queues at BPN by Up to 80 Percent

Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/Head of the National Land Agency, Nusron Wahid, has claimed that the implementation of electronic land services has reduced queues at land offices by up to 80 percent, enhancing accessibility for the public. This digital transformation, discussed during a parliamentary meeting, not only focuses on service efficiency but also ensures data security and legal certainty, with 83 percent of land service files stemming from key areas like rights transfer, information, and mortgages—many now fully electronic. As of March 2026, 7.6 million electronic certificates have been issued, representing 7.8 percent of the national total, underscoring ongoing efforts to modernise land administration and minimise risks such as document loss or fraud.

TNI General Highlights Gen Z's Contribution to Nation-Building During Visit to This Gaming Company

A TNI general visited Indonesian gaming marketplace VCGamers, praising the company as a prime example of how Gen Z youth are driving national development through digital innovation and economic contributions. The visit facilitated collaboration between the University of Defence's academic community and the industry, focusing on strategic issues like cybersecurity and the digital economy. Discussions underscored the need for partnerships between academia and business to bolster national resilience against evolving cyber threats.

Soybean Prices Soar, Tofu Producers in Duren Tiga Yet to Raise Selling Prices

Soybean prices in Jakarta's Duren Tiga tofu production hub have risen from Rp15,600 to Rp17,000 per unit, driven by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has increased production costs for local tofu makers. Despite the hike, producers have not yet passed on the additional expenses to consumers, keeping tofu market prices stable for now. Traders are urging the government to intervene and control the surge to prevent drastic price fluctuations in this essential commodity.

Yogyakarta-Australia Collaboration to Strengthen Leather Industry Supply Chain

The Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY) is exploring a partnership with Australia to bolster its leather industry ecosystem by integrating Australia's abundant raw materials with DIY's technical expertise and creativity in leather processing. This initiative builds on the established cattle trade between the two countries, aiming to advance downstream industries with support from Australia's Ministry of Industry and Innovation, involving private sector players and local associations. The collaboration is expected to enhance the competitiveness of local products internationally, create new jobs, and foster a sustainable supply chain that could benefit neighbouring regions in Central and East Java.

Energy security versus geopolitics: ASEAN states face tough choices over Iran’s Strait of Hormuz passage

The ongoing Middle East conflict has led Iran to selectively restrict access to the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway handling a quarter of global seaborne oil trade, primarily affecting Asian energy-import dependent nations including several ASEAN members like Malaysia, Thailand, and potentially the Philippines and Vietnam. While countries negotiate for safe passage, often on Iran's politicised terms involving tolls or vetting, this disrupts fuel supplies, spikes prices, and exposes ASEAN's vulnerabilities in trade, energy, and food security. Analysts urge diversification of energy sources, strategic reserves, and a push towards renewables to mitigate such geopolitical shocks.

Bogor Money-Doubling Shaman Arrested for Printing Fake Notes Using Printer

Police in Bogor, West Java, have arrested a 39-year-old man known as Mahfud, who posed as a shaman promising to multiply victims' money but was actually producing counterfeit Rp100,000 notes using a simple printer setup. The operation involved tricking victims into handing over genuine cash under the guise of mystical duplication, resulting in the seizure of 12,191 fake bills worth Rp620 million. Authorities are investigating the circulation of these forgeries and urging the public to beware of such scams to prevent further fraud and economic disruption.

US Attacks Iran, Now Panics Facing $200 Oil Scenario

The US is grappling with the unintended consequences of its military escalation against Iran, as soaring oil prices triggered by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz threaten to destabilise the global economy. Domestic fuel costs have surged, imposing an indirect tax on American consumers and exacerbating economic pressures, particularly for low-income groups. While the White House considers emergency measures, analysts warn that the full ripple effects, including widespread unemployment and poverty in the Arab region, will intensify in the coming weeks.

Kick-Off of 23rd CAEXPO-CABIS: Indonesia Targets Deeper Penetration into Chinese Market

Indonesia's Ministry of Trade has officially commenced preparations for the 23rd China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) and China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit (CABIS) in 2026, to be held in Nanning, China. The initiative aims to enhance Indonesia's export capabilities and deepen market penetration in China, a key trading partner. This event underscores Indonesia's strategic focus on strengthening bilateral trade relations and boosting economic ties within the ASEAN region.

Multiple Impacts of the Upstream Oil and Gas Industry on Society, from Taxes to Revenue-Sharing Funds

The upstream oil and gas industry in Indonesia provides extensive benefits to society through various economic activities, including corporate social responsibility, land and building taxes, and revenue-sharing funds, as highlighted by University Pertamina economist A. Rinto Pudyantoro. He identifies at least 13 such effects, with the largest financial impacts stemming from oil and gas taxes and revenue-sharing mechanisms, alongside the 10% participating interest scheme for state-owned enterprises. The government aims for a production target of 1 million barrels of oil per day and 12 billion standard cubic feet of gas per day, which Rinto deems achievable if key factors align, though field challenges pose risks.

Due to Iran War, Indonesia Potentially Loses 60,572 Tourists and Rp 2.04 Trillion in Foreign Exchange

Indonesia risks losing 60,572 international tourists and Rp 2.04 trillion in foreign exchange earnings due to flight cancellations stemming from the Iran-US-Israel conflict in the Middle East, which has closed Iranian airspace since late February 2026. Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana highlighted the impact on key routes from Abu Dhabi, Doha, Dubai, Jeddah, Madinah, and Muscat, while committing to the 2026 target of 16-17.6 million visitors through market shifts and monitoring geopolitical developments. The conflict also drives up global oil prices, increasing transportation costs and suppressing tourism demand, as evidenced by a 15.79% rise in ferry fares between Singapore and Batam.

Pramono Anung Bans Civil Servants from Using Private Vehicles During WFH

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has implemented a policy requiring civil servants (ASN) to work from home every Friday starting April 2026, while prohibiting the use of private vehicles to reduce mobility and energy consumption. Exceptions apply to public service roles, with technical guidelines and sanctions being prepared to ensure compliance. This measure aligns with a national directive from Interior Minister Tito Karnavian aimed at conserving fuel through hybrid work arrangements.

Beware! Scams Involving IKD Activation Impersonating Depok's Civil Registry Office on the Rise

Residents of Depok are being urged to stay vigilant against scams where fraudsters pose as officials from the local Civil Registry and Population Office (Dukcapil) to offer paid activation services for digital identity documents (IKD), demanding money and personal data. Victims, including recent migrants, have reported receiving calls or WhatsApp messages promising quick processing but requiring sensitive information like NIK and KTP photos. Dukcapil head Mary Liziawati emphasised that all population administration services are free under Law No. 23 of 2006, advising the public to use official channels and report any demands for payment or OTPs as fraud.

Cirebon Regency ASN WFH to Begin Next Week

The Cirebon Regency Government plans to implement work-from-home (WFH) arrangements for civil servants (ASN) starting next week, limiting participation to a maximum of 20% of the total workforce with flexible scheduling such as four office days and one WFH day. Structural officials must attend work full-time, while supervisory and functional staff may WFH up to 100% under supervision, with location-based attendance required within the Cirebon district and city radius. This policy aligns with national guidelines under Presidential Regulation No. 21 of 2023, aiming to promote flexible working while ensuring productivity and control.

PB SEMMI Appreciates Polri for Successfully Overseeing the 2026 Eid al-Fitr Exodus

The Central Board of the Indonesian Muslim Students' Union (PB SEMMI) has praised the Indonesian National Police (Polri) for their effective management of the 2026 Eid al-Fitr homecoming and return traffic, ensuring safe and orderly journeys for approximately 144 million travellers despite significant challenges. Chairman Bintang Wahyu Saputra highlighted Polri's strategic traffic arrangements, road engineering, and on-site personnel deployment as key to the smooth operation. This commendation underscores the importance of ongoing collaboration between security forces, government, and the public to maintain public safety during major national holidays.

Minister of PKP: Draft Ministerial Decree on Subsidised Flats Completed

Indonesia's Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas, Maruarar Sirait, has announced the completion of the draft ministerial decree on subsidised flats, incorporating inputs from stakeholders including the Ministry of Finance, state-owned enterprises, banks, developers, and potential residents. Key innovations include extending financing tenors to 30 years at a targeted 6% interest rate, expanding unit sizes up to 45 square metres to accommodate families, and adopting an indent construction scheme. The policy aims to facilitate access to affordable vertical housing in urban areas, with an initial target of 10,000 units by 2026 through BP Tapera, addressing the national housing backlog.

BKKBN: Free Nutritious Meals and Village Cooperatives to Accelerate Economic Equity and Prevent Urban Migration Surge

Indonesia's Ministry of Population and Family Planning (Kemendukbangga)/BKKBN highlights that government initiatives like the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme and the Red and White Village/Urban Village Cooperatives can drive economic development in rural areas, reducing the need for residents to migrate to cities for work. Officials note that urban open unemployment rates are higher than in rural areas, underscoring the need for job creation and skills matching in villages to balance employment opportunities and curb urbanisation pressures. The ministry is also developing population dashboards and certification systems to monitor migration trends and align workforce competencies with local job markets.

Chosen One, Prabowo Receives The Grand Order of Mugunghwa from South Korea

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has been awarded South Korea's highest national honour, The Grand Order of Mugunghwa, by President Lee Jae Myung during a state visit to Seoul, recognising his contributions to strengthening bilateral ties and elevating the partnership to a Special Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The award, comprising ornate badges and jewels, underscores the deepening friendship and strategic cooperation between Indonesia and South Korea, benefiting both nations and the region. This prestigious accolade, first given in 1949, has previously been bestowed upon global leaders including Queen Elizabeth II and Emmanuel Macron.

PDIP Puzzled by WFH on Fridays, PKB Warns Civil Servants Against Sightseeing

The Indonesian government has implemented a Work from Home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN) every Friday to enhance national energy efficiency amid the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran, potentially saving up to Rp6.2 trillion in fuel subsidies. PDI-P lawmakers express confusion over selecting Fridays, fearing it may lead to ineffective fuel consumption reductions and extended weekends, while PKB members urge strict monitoring to prevent misuse for personal activities and emphasise maintaining productivity and public services. The policy also aims to promote public transport use and reduce air pollution, with calls for regular evaluations to ensure its effectiveness.

Ministry of Manpower Encourages WFH, Health and Finance Sectors Remain WFO

The Indonesian Ministry of Manpower is urging private companies, state-owned enterprises (BUMN), and regional public companies (BUMD) to implement work-from-home (WFH) for one day per week, but this recommendation excludes several essential sectors requiring physical presence. Exempted sectors include energy, infrastructure, public services, trade, industry, transportation, logistics, finance, and health, ensuring uninterrupted operations in critical areas. This policy aims to balance workforce flexibility with the need for on-site work in vital industries, as stated by Minister Yassierli.

Jakarta-Bandung Railway Line Still Disrupted Due to Landslide

A landslide on 1 April 2026 has disrupted the Jakarta-Bandung railway line at the Maswati-Sasaksaat section, affecting multiple trains including KA 174 Ciremai and halting operations on this critical single-track route. PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) is accelerating cleanup and evacuation efforts, projecting completion within approximately five hours from 4:30 PM WIB to restore normal services. The incident underscores ongoing challenges in maintaining reliable rail infrastructure amid natural hazards, with KAI prioritising safety and apologising for the inconvenience to passengers.

Iranian Citizens Banned from Entering UAE Territory, Even for Transit

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has imposed a ban on Iranian citizens entering or transiting through its territory, with the exception of those holding a Golden Visa, as announced on the websites of airlines like Emirates and Flydubai. This restriction comes amid escalating regional tensions, including Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi's declaration of readiness for a six-month war and denial of negotiations with the US, alongside reports of US concerns over missile usage and a 35% surge in US fuel prices due to the conflict. The measure highlights the broader geopolitical strains affecting travel and economic stability in the region.

Iran Considers Bombing British Military Base Used by US to Launch Attacks

Iran is contemplating targeting a British military base after it was used by US bomber aircraft to launch strikes against the country, according to Iran's ambassador to London. The ambassador welcomed UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's initial stance against joining US and Israeli actions but warned that London's authorisation for US takeoffs from RAF Fairford could alter the situation, prompting Iran to consider all defensive options. This escalation follows joint US-Israeli military operations on 28 February that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and over 1,300 people, with Iran retaliating against Israeli and US targets in the Middle East.

Purbaya: If Push Comes to Shove, the Government Has Rp 420 Trillion in SAL to Safeguard the State Budget

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has assured that Indonesia's fiscal position remains robust amid the ongoing Iran-US conflict, with oil prices still below the budgeted $100 per barrel at around $76-77. The government holds a substantial SAL buffer of Rp 420 trillion and maintains a deficit projection under 3%, bolstered by spending efficiencies and cash reserves. This fiscal resilience allows Indonesia to avoid tapping into reserves for now, ensuring APBN stability without immediate concerns.

Without Support for Attacking Iran, Trump Threatens to Exit NATO

US President Donald Trump has strongly considered withdrawing the United States from NATO after the alliance refused to join the war against Iran, labelling it a 'paper tiger' and questioning its reliability as a defence partner. This comes amid European NATO members, including Germany, France, and the UK, rejecting involvement in the US-led aggression, which has blocked the Strait of Hormuz and spiked global oil prices, threatening economic recession. Trump's remarks highlight deepening transatlantic rifts, with him urging allies to fend for themselves as the US has done for others like Ukraine.

President Accelerates Economic Reform, Focuses on Improving Investment Climate

President Prabowo Subianto has reaffirmed the Indonesian government's commitment to driving national economic reform and transformation to create a more competitive and responsive investment climate. Speaking at the Indonesia-Japan Business Forum in Tokyo, he highlighted ongoing deregulation efforts, the establishment of a special task force to address investment bottlenecks, and his direct accessibility to investors facing challenges. This initiative aims to strengthen the strategic economic partnership between Indonesia and Japan, fostering mutual growth and stability amid global dynamics.

Sri Sultan HB X Hopes No More TNI Soldiers Will Fall While Carrying Out Peacekeeping Missions

Sri Sultan HB X, Governor of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, has expressed profound sorrow over the death of Indonesian TNI soldier Praka Farizal Rhomadon from Kulonprogo, who was killed alongside two comrades in an alleged Israeli attack on the UNIFIL base in South Lebanon. He voiced concern over the risks faced by peacekeeping troops in conflict zones and hoped no further casualties would occur. Meanwhile, the Commission A of the Yogyakarta DPRD has urged the central government to posthumously award the National Hero title to the fallen soldiers and called on the local government to provide support for Praka Farizal's bereaved family, particularly his two-year-old son.

Amsal Sitepu Acquitted: DPR Member Calls It a Victory for Justice

The Medan District Court acquitted videographer Amsal Christy Sitepu of corruption charges related to an alleged markup in producing village profile videos in Karo Regency, ruling that the allegations were not proven. DPR Commission III member Martin Daniel Tumbelaka hailed the verdict as a triumph for public justice, emphasising that it protects creative workers from unwarranted criminalisation over administrative issues and safeguards the creative economy. He urged law enforcement to better distinguish between genuine corruption and professional dynamics to avoid undermining fair livelihoods.

Labour Minister Reveals Sectors Exempt from WFH Policy

Indonesia's Minister of Manpower, Yassierli, has outlined exemptions from the one-day-per-week work-from-home (WFH) policy for various essential sectors, including energy, health, public services, infrastructure, retail, industry, hospitality, food and beverage, transportation, logistics, and finance, due to operational necessities. This directive, issued via a circular dated 31 March 2026, follows President Prabowo Subianto's instructions to safeguard national energy resilience while encouraging WFH implementation starting 1 April 2026 for non-exempt companies. The policy aims to optimise energy use in workplaces without disrupting critical operations.

Brebes Police Resort Ensures Clean Recruitment with Integrity Pact for 2026 Polri Intake

The Brebes Police Resort in Central Java has conducted an oath-taking and integrity pact signing ceremony for the 2026 integrated Polri recruitment, aiming to uphold principles of cleanliness, transparency, accountability, and humanity in the selection process. With 44 applicants registered, including breakdowns for Akpol, Bintara, and Tamtama categories, the event involved representatives from committees, supervisors, parents, and participants to prevent corruption, nepotism, or gratifications. This initiative reinforces the Indonesian National Police's commitment to building public trust through fair and professional recruitment practices.

Purbaya Allocates Additional Rp100 Trillion for Fuel Subsidies, State Budget Deficit Forecast at 2.9%

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has prepared an additional budget of Rp90-100 trillion for fuel subsidies to PT Pertamina amid volatile global oil prices exceeding US$100 per barrel, far above the 2026 state budget assumption of US$70. This measure aims to maintain stable domestic fuel prices without adjustments, leading to a projected increase in the 2026 state budget deficit from 2.68% to 2.9% of GDP. For the time being, Pertamina is absorbing the costs, supported by improved government payments for subsidies and compensations, ensuring the company's financial liquidity remains strong.

Landslide in West Bandung Regency Halts Ciremai Train Journey

A landslide triggered by heavy rain in West Bandung Regency on Wednesday disrupted the Ciremai train service between Semarang Tawang and Bandung, forcing the train to stop temporarily at kilometre marker 142+8/9. PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) prioritised passenger safety, deploying emergency teams for evacuation and debris clearance, while apologising for the inconvenience. The incident highlights ongoing vulnerabilities in Indonesia's rail infrastructure to natural disasters, affecting key transport links.

Abdul Mu'ti: Sanctions for Students Cheating in Academic Ability Test

Indonesia's Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu'ti, has warned that students and schools caught cheating during the Academic Ability Test (TKA) will receive a score of zero, emphasising a strict policy to uphold integrity. The TKA for primary and junior secondary students is scheduled for April 2026 and covers only Indonesian Language and Mathematics, serving as a non-determinant assessment for graduation. Preparations are nearly complete, with provisions for computer loans to schools lacking equipment, aiming to ensure a transparent and stress-free examination process.

IHSG Rises 1.93%, Triggered by Trump's Statement on Iran Conflict

Indonesia's Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) closed up 1.93% at 7,184.44 on Wednesday, driven by optimism from US President Donald Trump's announcement that the US could end its military involvement in Iran within two to three weeks, alongside Iran's willingness to resolve hostilities under certain conditions. Domestically, manufacturing PMI dipped slightly to 50.1 in March but remained in expansion territory, while February's trade surplus of $1.28 billion and controlled inflation of 3.48% year-on-year bolster Indonesia's economic resilience amid global geopolitical tensions. This surge mirrored gains across Asian markets, highlighting the interplay between international developments and local financial performance.

Parking Management Installs Banners Prohibiting Illegal Parking Fees in Blok M

Following a viral video of a resident being forced to pay parking fees twice at Blok M Square in South Jakarta, the local transportation authority has installed eight banners warning against payments to illegal parking attendants. Ten such attendants have been identified, disciplined, and required to sign statements promising not to repeat the offence, with warnings of heavier penalties for violations. This action, involving municipal enforcement officers, also addressed misplaced street vendors and aims to ensure single official parking payments to protect public interests in regulated urban spaces.

Bird's Eye Chilli Contributes the Highest Inflation in March in Bali and NTB

In March 2026, bird's eye chilli emerged as the primary driver of inflation in Bali and West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), with price increases of 15.98% in Bali and significant contributions in NTB, exacerbated by high demand during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr alongside low production. Bali recorded a monthly inflation rate of 0.56%, while NTB saw 0.81%, influenced by rising food prices and fuel costs, though some commodities experienced deflation due to government subsidies. This seasonal pattern, observed consistently over the past three years in March, highlights vulnerabilities in agricultural supply chains during festive periods.

Non-Subsidised Fuel Prices Held Steady, Purbaya Says Pertamina Temporarily Absorbs the Difference

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has revealed that PT Pertamina is temporarily covering the price differential for non-subsidised fuel amid surging global oil prices, preventing an immediate pass-through to consumers. This approach is supported by smooth government compensation payments, which have bolstered Pertamina's finances, while supplies remain secure despite international market pressures. The government's decision aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's directives to maintain price stability and avoid public panic over potential increases.