Bank Indonesia has officially launched cross-border QRIS payments with South Korea, enabling seamless transactions for Indonesians in Korea and vice versa. This initiative, highlighted by demonstrations of actual purchases using QRIS, aims to position Indonesia as a co-creator in the global payment ecosystem, boosting tourism, trade, and UMKM access to wider markets. The expansion supports efficient, inclusive cross-border connectivity and is already operational in several Asian countries, with China to follow soon.

Indonesia recorded a trade surplus of US$1.27 billion in February 2026, extending its streak to 70 consecutive months since May 2020, with the cumulative surplus for January-February reaching US$2.23 billion. The surplus was propelled by a US$5.42 billion gain in non-oil and gas sectors, offsetting a US$3.19 billion deficit in oil and gas, while exports grew 2.19 percent year-on-year to US$43.36 billion, led by manufacturing and directed primarily to China, the United States, and India. Imports surged 14.44 percent to US$42.09 billion, highlighting robust demand for non-oil and gas goods amid Indonesia's sustained positive trade balance.

PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGN), in collaboration with PT Gagas Energi Indonesia and the Komogas community, has launched 24-hour standby workshops at the Cirebon SPBG station in West Java to support vehicles using Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) during the 2026 Eid al-Fitr homecoming period. This initiative, serving 55 vehicles including bajaj and cars, underscores PGN's commitment to enhancing energy resilience, promoting cleaner fuels, and ensuring safe travels amid rising mobility demands. By providing quick inspections and maintenance, the programme aims to boost CNG adoption and support national efforts towards efficient, environmentally friendly energy solutions.

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission IV, Rajiv, has called on the government to enhance early preparedness measures to prevent forest and land fires (karhutla) ahead of the prolonged dry season in 2026. He emphasised the need for stronger regional cooperation, improved coordination with local governments, and stricter law enforcement against intentional arson, citing emerging hotspots in Riau and BMKG's warnings of drier conditions. This proactive approach is crucial to avoid large-scale fires that could have severe environmental and regional impacts.

The South Korean Ambassador to Indonesia, Cecep Herawan, received the book 'Taste of Nusantara: 80 Bhayangkara Menu for Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meals Program', a translation of the Indonesian 'Rasa Bhayangkara Nusantara', as a tool for gastrodiplomacy. Presented by Presidential Special Assistant Dirgayuza Setiawan and authored by Deputy National Police Chief Komjen Dedi Prasetyo, the book promotes Indonesia's school meal programme through cultural and culinary diplomacy, highlighting its journey across Europe, America, the Middle East, Japan, and now South Korea. South Korea, which has implemented a similar national free school meals programme for 20 years with an annual budget of approximately Rp 80 trillion, views the initiative as a cultural staple, fostering international exchange and strengthening Indonesia's global position.

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has prohibited civil servants (ASN) in the provincial government from using private vehicles when working from home (WFH) every Friday, urging them to opt for public transportation if they need to go out. He has also strictly forbidden ASN from working from cafes or other locations during WFH periods, insisting they must work from home under supervision, with strict sanctions promised for violators. This policy follows central government directives and aims to enforce discipline and reduce traffic congestion in the capital.

The rise of queue-jumping services like Antriin.id highlights the growing demand for time-saving solutions amid Indonesia's fast-paced urban life and inefficient public services, allowing busy individuals to outsource waiting tasks for activities such as hospital visits or dining at viral eateries. Founded by Elan Setiawan based on personal observations, the app connects customers short on time with partners seeking extra income, leveraging AI to streamline development and operations. With hundreds of users and partners quickly signing up, this service underscores a shift towards digital conveniences but also points to broader issues in public service efficiency.

Indonesian NGOs under the Indonesia Gaza Initiative (IGI) have received strong backing from the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) for their plans to reconstruct Gaza amid ongoing suffering from recent conflicts. IGI, comprising organisations such as Yayasan Amal Bakti Dunia Islam (Abadi), Yayasan Kasih Palestina, and Yayasan Harapan Amal Mulia, aims to involve local communities in Gaza and national figures in the initiative, building on prior experience like the construction of Masjid Istiqlal Gaza. MUI's foreign affairs chairman, Prof. Dr. Sudarnoto Abdul Hakim, emphasised unity under the Indonesian flag and reclaiming the reconstruction narrative from Western influences while advocating for Palestinian independence.

President Prabowo Subianto's visit to Japan, hosted by Emperor Naruhito in late March 2026, underscores Indonesia's strategic diplomacy to bolster economic resilience amid global geopolitical tensions, energy supply disruptions, and economic slowdowns. The accompanying Indonesia-Japan business forum secured business-to-business agreements worth approximately US$22.6 billion in investments, highlighting the tangible economic benefits of high-level engagements. This proactive approach draws lessons from past crises like the 1973 oil shock and the 1997-1998 Asian financial crisis, positioning Indonesia as a key regional player in a multipolar world by aligning mutual interests in energy, minerals, technology transfer, and national industrialisation.

Pertamina Patra Niaga is rolling out various promotions in April 2026 to encourage digital transactions for fuel purchases through the MyPertamina app, amid rumours of price hikes that did not materialise. Customers can enjoy double MyPertamina points on weekends, cashback offers from digital payment partners like OVO, AstraPay, and GoPay, as well as benefits for credit card users from BNI and Mandiri. These initiatives aim to provide more convenient and rewarding options for consumers at integrated Pertamina fuel stations, with full details available on official channels.

Indonesia achieved its 70th consecutive month of trade surplus in February, with the cumulative surplus for January-February 2026 reaching US$2.23 billion, primarily driven by a US$5.42 billion surplus in non-oil and gas commodities despite a US$3.19 billion deficit in the oil and gas sector. Exports rose 2.19 percent year-on-year to US$44.32 billion, led by manufacturing growth and key markets including China, the United States, and India, while imports increased 14.44 percent to US$42.09 billion, mainly in non-oil and gas items. This sustained surplus underscores Indonesia's robust export performance and trade resilience amid global economic fluctuations.

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has declared Indonesia as the primary investment destination for South Korean firms, highlighting its crucial role in bolstering Korea's defence industry and successful collaborations in electric vehicle production. During a state visit by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to Seoul, Lee pushed for elevating bilateral ties to a special comprehensive strategic partnership, marking a historic milestone unique in Korea's global relations. With over 50 years of diplomatic history, both nations are poised to expand cooperation across sectors, fostering mutual benefits amid global uncertainties.

The Indonesian government has introduced adjustments to the work patterns of civil servants (ASN) through a circular from the Minister of State Apparatus Utilization and Bureaucratic Reform, effective from 1 April 2026, aiming to foster a more efficient, adaptive, and performance-based governance transformation. The policy allows for four days of office work from Monday to Thursday and one day of work from home on Fridays, without altering official working hours or days, while emphasising that flexibility must align with performance targets and essential public services remain uninterrupted. This initiative also promotes operational efficiencies such as limiting official travel, optimising virtual meetings, and leveraging digital technologies, with mandatory monthly evaluations to ensure sustained improvements in productivity and service quality.

BPJS Kesehatan has underscored the critical role of credentialing and re-credentialing processes for healthcare facilities to ensure safe, high-quality services under the National Health Insurance Programme (JKN). The organisation collaborates with over 23,000 primary care facilities and nearly 3,200 advanced referral facilities, all vetted through transparent assessments involving health authorities and associations to maintain standards and adapt to evolving needs. Industry leaders from the Indonesian Private Hospitals Association support strengthening these mechanisms through digitalisation and performance indicators to enhance efficiency and patient safety.

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has expressed profound condolences on behalf of the province's residents for the deaths of three Indonesian National Army (TNI) members serving in a peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, including Captain Inf Zulmi Aditya from Cimahi. He extended special sympathy to the family of the fallen soldier and hoped for strength during their time of grief, emphasising that the soldiers' dedication leaves a legacy of goodness. This incident underscores the sacrifices made by Indonesian troops in international peacekeeping efforts.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung oversaw the announcement and exchange of 10 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between their countries at the Blue House in Seoul, covering key sectors including the economy, energy, digital technology, health, and future industries. This exchange represents a concrete step in strengthening the strategic partnership between Indonesia and South Korea, emphasising mutual benefits and long-term collaboration. The agreements aim to foster sustainable development, enhance industrial competitiveness, and deliver tangible benefits to both nations' societies.

Former Supreme Court Secretary Nurhadi has been sentenced to five years in prison and fined Rp 500 million, with an additional order to pay Rp 137.1 billion in restitution for receiving gratuities and committing money laundering. The court determined that Nurhadi accepted the illicit funds through accounts linked to his son-in-law and others from parties involved in court cases, rejecting claims that the transactions were solely his son-in-law's doing due to their close relationship and shared living arrangements. This verdict underscores ongoing efforts to combat corruption within Indonesia's judiciary, highlighting the misuse of influence for financial gain.

Automotive industry expert Yannes Martinus Pasaribu from Institut Teknologi Bandung has urged the government to develop a data-driven roadmap for supplying operational vehicles to approximately 80,000 Kopdes/Kelurahan Merah Putih cooperatives across Indonesia, aiming to empower the national automotive sector while aligning with President Prabowo's Asta Cita programme. He recommends zoning-based vehicle allocation, prioritising local production for the remaining 55,000 units after imports, and involving key ministries and associations like Gaikindo to utilise the industry's 20-30% idle capacity. Additionally, Pasaribu calls for regulatory reforms, including stronger local content requirements and tax reviews on 4x4 vehicles, to make domestic options more competitive and support reindustrialisation.

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung highlighted Indonesia as the primary investment destination for Korean firms, crediting them with enabling the production of Indonesia's first domestically manufactured electric vehicle and supporting its defence industry. During a meeting with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at Cheong Wa Dae, both leaders pledged to pursue more collaborative projects for mutual economic benefit, drawing on over 50 years of diplomatic ties. Prabowo praised South Korea's advancements in science and technology, emphasising how Indonesia's abundant natural resources and large market could complement Korean expertise to foster prosperity for both nations.

The Indonesian government is advancing the mandatory biodiesel 50% (B50) policy, set to take effect on 1 July 2026, which is expected to reduce diesel fuel consumption by 4 million kilolitres and save the state budget approximately Rp48 trillion. This initiative, part of efforts to bolster national energy resilience, involves ongoing road tests that have already covered over 30,000 kilometres with positive results, including extended fuel filter replacement intervals. By halting diesel imports through B50, the policy aims to enhance energy independence amid global oil price volatility.

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission IX, Vita Ervina, has urged a serious evaluation of the national immunisation budget in response to the increasing outbreaks of measles across various regions in early 2026. Highlighting the need for proactive measures over reactive responses, she advocates for increased funding to bolster prevention efforts, particularly in high-burden areas like Central Java, and to strengthen the role of community health centres. This call comes amid data showing over 10,000 confirmed cases and several deaths, underscoring the urgency of investing in long-term public health to protect vulnerable children and ensure equitable access to immunisation.

Ahmad Sahroni, Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission III, has defended the transfer of the acid attack case against KontraS activist Andrie Yunus to the TNI's Military Police Centre (Puspom TNI), asserting it is procedurally sound due to the involvement of military personnel. He argued that this handover eliminates the need for a joint fact-finding team (TGPF), as the military institution will handle the investigation. Meanwhile, KontraS coordinator Dimas Bagus Arya urged the case be tried in civilian courts, highlighting concerns over jurisdictional appropriateness, with four TNI intelligence officers already named as suspects and detained.

The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has issued Circular Number 10 of 2026 to ensure face-to-face learning continues normally while supporting national energy-saving policies. Minister Abdul Mu'ti emphasised that schools should prioritise in-person education to optimise learning outcomes and character building, while adopting energy-efficient and environmentally friendly practices, including work-from-home arrangements for civil servants. This initiative aims to maintain public service stability in education, foster quality human resource development, and contribute to broader economic stability and energy resilience through collaborative efforts among stakeholders.

Indonesia has strongly condemned Israel's Knesset for passing a law that facilitates the imposition of the death penalty on detained Palestinians, describing it as a serious violation of international human rights and humanitarian law. The Indonesian Foreign Ministry urged Israel to revoke the legislation and ensure the protection of Palestinians' basic rights, while calling on the international community, particularly the United Nations, to hold Israel accountable. This stance reaffirms Indonesia's unwavering support for the Palestinian struggle for independence with East Jerusalem as its capital, amid reports of over 9,300 Palestinians, including children and women, suffering abuse in Israeli prisons.

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has prohibited civil servants from working from cafes or public places on Fridays designated for work-from-home (WFH) arrangements, emphasising that they must work from home to maintain productivity and discipline. Strict sanctions will be imposed on violators, with attendance monitored via mobile systems under the oversight of the Regional Personnel Agency. This policy aligns with national guidelines from Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto, who selected Fridays for WFH due to lighter workloads, while ensuring essential public services continue uninterrupted.

The Indonesian government has officially implemented a Work From Home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN), allowing one day of remote work per week under Presidential Regulation (Perpres) No. 21/2023, which establishes flexible working hours and locations to enhance productivity. Interior Minister Tito Karnavian issued a circular effective from 1 April 2026, outlining guidelines for local government ASN and incorporating the policy into a broader Flexible Working Arrangement (FWA) framework, with strict digital oversight to maintain performance. This initiative aims to improve work-life balance, efficiency, and employee well-being while ensuring measurable benefits for public administration.

The Central Leadership Council of the National Association of River, Lake, and Ferry Entrepreneurs (Gapasdap) attributes the congestion during the 2026 Eid transport period on major routes to inadequate dock infrastructure rather than a shortage of vessels. Chairman Khoiri Soetomo highlighted imbalances in vessel numbers versus dock capacities on routes like Merak-Bakauheni and Ketapang-Gilimanuk, despite efforts by the Ministry of Transportation and other stakeholders. Gapasdap recommends more flexible, adaptive, and real-time-based approaches to improve efficiency and reduce economic pressures on operators.

Indonesia's Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, and South Korea's Minister of Climate, Energy, and Environment, Kim Sungwhan, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to advance clean energy collaboration, focusing on renewables like solar, wind, and geothermal, as well as future technologies such as nuclear and hydrogen. This agreement, announced during a meeting between Presidents Prabowo Subianto and Lee Jae-myung in Seoul, aims to enhance energy independence, facilitate technology transfer, boost investments, and develop competitive human resources amid global geopolitical tensions and fluctuating fossil fuel prices. The initial phase includes a $1.1 billion investment in EV battery production capable of powering 150,000 electric vehicles, underscoring the strengthening bilateral ties that position Indonesia as a key energy supplier to South Korea.

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) has forecasted a slight decline in corn production for January to May 2026, projecting 6.96 million tonnes of dry shelled corn at 14% moisture content, down 0.68% from the previous year. This downturn is attributed to reduced harvested areas, particularly in March to May, influenced by earlier planting conditions and potential risks like pests, floods, or droughts. The forecast underscores the dynamic nature of agricultural output and BPS's ongoing monitoring to support food security and economic planning in Indonesia.

Indonesia's Minister of Manpower, Yassierli, has mandated that private companies, state-owned enterprises (BUMNs), and regional public enterprises (BUMDs) must pay full salaries to employees implementing work-from-home (WFH) one day a week, effective from 1 April 2026, to protect workers' rights and prevent any reduction in pay. This policy aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's directives to optimise energy use and enhance national energy resilience by reducing daily mobility, while ensuring compliance through oversight mechanisms like the Lapor Manaker complaint channel and potential sanctions for violations. The initiative aims to foster a more adaptive and efficient work culture that balances productivity with employee welfare.

President Prabowo Subianto witnessed the announcement and exchange of 10 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between Indonesia and South Korea during his state visit to the Presidential Palace in Seoul, covering key sectors such as economy, energy, digital technology, health, and future industries. The agreements include initiatives on critical minerals partnership, digital development, AI for basic health and human development, clean energy, carbon capture and storage, offshore power generation, intellectual property protection, and financial cooperation. This collaboration aims to foster inclusive economic growth, strengthen industrial resilience, and accelerate Indonesia's transition to a technology- and clean energy-based economy through a robust, mutually beneficial partnership.

The Task Force for Accelerating Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (Satgas PRR) Post-Disaster Sumatra is rebuilding connectivity in flood and landslide-hit areas of Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra by constructing three types of emergency bridges: Bailey, Armco, and pioneer bridges. As of 31 March, significant progress has been made, with the majority of planned bridges completed through collaborative efforts by TNI AD and Polri personnel. Task Force Chairman Muhammad Tito Karnavian emphasised that these efforts will extend to permanent infrastructure to fully restore transportation, mobility, logistics, and economic activity.

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has declared Indonesia as holding the highest status among his country's foreign partners during a meeting with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at Cheong Wa Dae. He pushed to elevate bilateral ties to a special comprehensive strategic partnership, unique to Indonesia globally, building on prior commitments and highlighting mutual benefits in investment, defence industry, and electric vehicle production. With over 50 years of diplomatic relations, Lee emphasised the complementary strengths of both nations amid global uncertainties, portraying them as invaluable allies to each other.

The Indonesian government, led by Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto, is urging widespread energy conservation among households and workplaces to ensure domestic supply stability amid global challenges, while emphasising that productivity must not be compromised. In response, the International Energy Agency (IEA) has released practical guidelines, highlighting seven concrete steps for reducing energy consumption through consistent small habits that benefit both personal finances and national energy resilience. This initiative underscores the importance of collective action to promote environmental sustainability and mitigate risks from international energy market volatility.

Three Indonesian National Army (TNI) soldiers who died during a UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon (UNIFIL) have been posthumously promoted and awarded medals, with their families set to receive substantial compensation packages totalling around IDR 1.8 billion each. TNI Commander General Agus Subianto confirmed that all entitlements, including insurance payouts, death benefits, scholarships for children, and ongoing salaries for 12 months followed by widow's pensions, will be fulfilled. President Prabowo Subianto expressed deep condolences, highlighting the soldiers' dedication to global peace and Indonesia's international reputation.

A case involving a female content creator, CR, alleging rape by a man, RB, in South Jakarta in 2017 continues to unfold at the police, now complicated by a counter-report from RB accusing CR of defamation filed on 18 February 2026. Investigations into the original rape allegation face challenges due to the passage of time, including changes in venue management and unsupported CCTV footage, while the defamation case is being processed separately with CR summoned as a witness and suspect. This dual legal battle highlights procedural hurdles in historical sexual assault claims and the potential for counter-accusations in public disputes.

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has designated Indonesia as a primary investment and industrial development partner during a bilateral meeting with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at the Blue House. He highlighted Indonesia's role in Korea's defence industry and the joint production of Indonesia's first electric vehicle, expressing optimism for expanded cooperation across strategic sectors. The leaders committed to elevating their bilateral ties to a special comprehensive strategic partnership, marking a historic milestone unique to Indonesia in Korea's global relations.

The Jakarta Corruption Court has sentenced former Supreme Court Secretary Nurhadi to five years in prison, a Rp 500 million fine, and restitution of Rp 137.159 billion for receiving gratuities and money laundering through accounts linked to his son-in-law, Rezky Herbiyono. The court determined that Nurhadi laundered over Rp 307 billion and USD 50,000, using the funds to acquire property and vehicles, while considering his legitimate income from a swiftlet nest farming business worth Rp 66.9 billion. This lighter sentence, below the prosecutors' seven-year demand, adds to Nurhadi's prior six-year term for bribery and gratifications, highlighting ongoing anti-corruption efforts against high-level judicial officials in Indonesia.

Indonesian police have extended the detention of Dr. Richard Lee, suspected of violating consumer protection laws, by 40 days from 26 March to 5 May 2026, pending the prosecutor's review of the case file. The file was handed over to the Banten Attorney General's Office on 31 March 2026, and investigators are awaiting confirmation on whether it is complete or requires further supplementation. This extension allows time to gather additional evidence and witness statements, including an examination of Lee's wife on 27 March 2026, as the legal process continues.

President Joko Widodo met with Iran's Ambassador to Indonesia, Mohammad Boroujerdi, in Solo, Central Java, to discuss bilateral relations, emphasising the importance of maintaining strong diplomatic ties for economic strengthening and geopolitical stability. Jokowi clarified that no negotiations occurred regarding the opening of the Strait of Hormuz for Indonesian ships, stating it is a government matter. He also advocated for anti-war campaigns to end global conflicts, highlighting how such wars hinder economic growth by causing energy and oil crises.

President Prabowo Subianto witnessed the signing of 10 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between Indonesia and South Korea, covering key areas such as economic cooperation, critical minerals, digital development, AI in healthcare, clean energy, carbon capture, offshore power generation, intellectual property, and financial partnerships. These agreements, exchanged during Prabowo's state visit to Seoul, aim to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two nations, leveraging South Korea's technological advancements and Indonesia's abundant resources and large domestic market. Prabowo highlighted the shared interests of both middle powers in regional stability, peace, and mutual prosperity through complementary strengths, while South Korean President Lee emphasised Indonesia's role as a primary investment partner and the success of collaborations like electric vehicle production.

A Manggala Agni officer, Muharmizan, died suddenly after firefighting duties in Riau, prompting Deputy Chairman of DPR Commission IV, Alex Indra Lukman, to call for comprehensive safety equipment, thorough investigations into such incidents, and insurance coverage for the 956 personnel under the Sumatera Dalkarhut. He emphasised the need for regular health checks to prevent workplace accidents among these high-risk workers, highlighting the state's responsibility to protect those on national duty. This comes amid ongoing forest and land fires in Riau, with multiple hotspots reported and intensive suppression efforts underway by the Forestry Ministry.

Deputy Health Minister Dante Saksono Harbuwono has highlighted the benefits of running events such as ASN Runners 2026 in enhancing mental resilience and preventing catastrophic diseases. He emphasised that the gradual training process for marathons builds both physical and mental endurance, addressing the alarming statistic that 94% of Indonesians lack sufficient physical activity. As public servants, civil servants (ASN) are encouraged to lead by example in promoting exercise to improve national health outcomes.

Indonesia's coal exports fell sharply in February 2026 despite soaring global prices reaching US$118.37 per metric tonne, with cumulative volume dropping 7.90% to 56.39 million tonnes and value plunging 18.21% to US$3.48 billion compared to the previous year. In contrast, exports of other key commodities like crude palm oil and derivatives surged 26.4% in value to US$4.69 billion, and iron and steel rose 1.53% to US$4.18 billion, highlighting a divergence in performance among Indonesia's export sectors.

Police from Polda Metro Jaya are continuing their investigation into allegations of a fake diploma involving former President Joko Widodo, questioning media figure Karni Ilyas as a witness regarding a television programme clip linked to the case. The examination focuses on the broadcast's content and potential airing on television stations, amid a broader probe that has named eight suspects, including Roy Suryo. Some suspects, such as Eggi Sudjana and Damai Hari Lubis, have sought case termination through restorative justice, which authorities are processing.

Rear Admiral Edwin has been officially appointed as the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL), replacing Rear Admiral Erwin Aldedharma, in a ceremony led by Chief of Staff Admiral Muhammad Ali at the TNI AL headquarters in East Jakarta. The two officers swapped positions, with Erwin now taking over as Deputy Governor of the National Resilience Institute (Lemhanas), as part of routine organisational dynamics to address increasingly complex challenges. This leadership transition aims to strengthen the navy's organisational solidarity, enhance task effectiveness, and ensure continuity of ongoing programmes, reflecting TNI AL's commitment to professional and adaptive leadership in safeguarding Indonesia's maritime sovereignty.

The Hajj and Umrah Ministry office in Bandung, West Java, reports that the waiting time for Hajj pilgrimage has reached 27 years, with over 45,000 prospective pilgrims currently on the list. This delay is consistent across Indonesia, prompting officials to urge early registration, now available year-round and even for minors under 17 using parents' ID cards. Registration involves initial steps at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, validation, and payment at designated banks to secure a pilgrimage quota.

The Jakarta Provincial Government has deployed an additional 20 garbage trucks to address ongoing waste accumulation, particularly at the Kramat Jati Main Market in East Jakarta, following disruptions caused by a landslide at the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Site. Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo stated that this measure aims to accelerate the clearance of piles disrupting residents' activities, though challenges persist with waste from temporary disposal points continuously overflowing into waterways due to a collapsing boundary wall. Local workers warn that without addressing the structural issues, cleaning efforts will remain ineffective and could lead to flooding risks in the surrounding areas.

The Philippine government is set to initiate diplomatic talks with Iran to ensure the smooth passage of oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, following recent escalations in the Middle East that have led to a de facto blockade of the vital shipping route. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has instructed Foreign Minister Tess Lazaro to lead these efforts, with discussions potentially starting as early as Wednesday. This move underscores the Philippines' vulnerability to global energy supply disruptions amid heightened regional tensions involving attacks by the US and Israel on Iran, and subsequent retaliations.

The verdict hearing for Wawan Hermawan, the administrator of the @bekasi_menggugat social media account and a student accused of manipulating content to incite unrest during the August 2025 demonstrations, has been postponed due to a family bereavement of one of the judges. The panel, chaired by Adek Nurhadi, rescheduled the session for Tuesday, 7 April, at 09:00 WIB. Prosecutors had charged Wawan under Article 246 of the 2023 Criminal Code for inciting criminal acts and resistance against authorities through his altered post, which they claim provoked anarchy groups, students, and BEM to damage public facilities, seeking a one-year prison sentence.