A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has raised concerns over the dramatic surge in a newly listed stock from Rp200 to Rp8,000 within two months, suspecting market manipulation that could undermine the capital market's integrity. During a working meeting with the Financial Services Authority (OJK), legislator Melchias Marcus Mekeng urged stricter oversight and public announcements of actions to ensure legal certainty, highlighting risks to banking if inflated shares are used as loan collateral. The scrutiny comes amid broader issues affecting Indonesia's market rating by MSCI, with Abadi Lestari Indonesia (RLCO) cited as an example of such anomalous behaviour.

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reported that the national Farmers' Exchange Rate (NTP) fell to 125.35 in March 2026, a 0.08 percent decline from February, due to a slower rise in prices received by farmers compared to those paid. Inflation for the month was 0.41 percent month-to-month, lower than the previous year's 1.65 percent, with food, beverages, and tobacco as the largest contributors, driven by commodities like fresh fish, chicken meat, rice, and chillies. This data highlights ongoing pressures in the agricultural sector and consumer prices, potentially impacting rural economies and food security in Indonesia.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has emphasised digital discipline for civil servants implementing work-from-home (WFH) policies every Friday, requiring them to keep their devices active and respond promptly to communications despite not being in the office. This initiative, part of a broader government push for adaptive and efficient work culture starting 1 April 2026, aims to maintain productivity and bureaucratic effectiveness without physical oversight. Additionally, the policy includes restrictions on official vehicle use to promote public transport and energy efficiency, as highlighted by Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto.

Chinese authorities have extradited Li Xiong, former chairman of Cambodia's Huione Group and alleged core member of cyberscam kingpin Chen Zhi's criminal network, from Cambodia following a joint investigation into cross-border gambling and fraud. This action highlights Cambodia's role as a major hub for transnational cybercrime operations, including 'pig butchering' scams that have defrauded billions globally, with US sanctions targeting the involved conglomerates for money laundering. Cambodian officials are intensifying efforts to dismantle these scam centres by month's end, amid criticism that prior government ties to the perpetrators may have enabled the crimes.

Indonesia's Minister of Manpower, Yassierli, has urged private companies, state-owned enterprises, and regional enterprises to implement one day of work-from-home (WFH) per week without reducing workers' salaries, annual leave, or other entitlements. This policy aims to curb energy consumption amid global oil supply uncertainties due to the Iran-Israel conflict, with companies required to maintain productivity and consult with labour unions on implementation details. Violations can be reported via the Lapor Menaker channel, leading to sanctions by labour inspectors.

Governor of DKI Jakarta, Pramono Anung, has mandated strict oversight for the new work-from-home (WFH) policy requiring civil servants (ASN) to work from home every Friday, explicitly prohibiting work-from-cafe (WFC) practices and imposing severe sanctions for violations. The policy aims to boost work efficiency and reduce private vehicle traffic in the capital, with digital monitoring tools ensuring attendance and requiring ASN to remain at home, using public transport only if mobility is essential. This aligns with national directives and balances employee welfare with public service productivity.

Despite government prohibitions under Jakarta's waste management regulations, residents in South Jakarta's Pasar Minggu district persist in dumping household and market waste at an illegal site near the railway tracks of Pasar Minggu Station, leading to ongoing sanitation issues. Local environmental officer Ucok highlighted the residents' stubbornness and the site's accessibility as key factors, while resident Wasti expressed frustration over repeated complaints to authorities that fail due to lack of strict enforcement. This violation of Perda No. 4/2019 and Governor's Regulation No. 102/2021 not only affects a vital connecting road but also underscores broader challenges in public compliance with environmental laws in urban areas.

President Joko Widodo met with Iran's Ambassador to Indonesia, Mohammad Boroujerdi, in Solo to discuss regional developments and the humanitarian and economic impacts of the ongoing conflict imposed on Iran. The ambassador highlighted attacks on civilian areas, vital infrastructure, and economic facilities, affirming Iran's right to self-defence under international law. Jokowi expressed sympathy, support for Iran's sovereignty, and hopes for peace, stability, and prosperity in the region, while both sides reaffirmed their long-standing friendship and commitment to bilateral cooperation.

The Chair of DPR Commission III, Habiburokhman, has announced plans to summon the Karo District Prosecutor's Office, its public prosecutors, and the Prosecutorial Commission to investigate allegations of propaganda in the handling of videographer Amsal Sitepu's case. This follows claims that the prosecutors created a misleading narrative about a detention suspension request from the commission, which was approved by the court but delayed due to procedural delays on their part. The summons aims to evaluate the prosecutors' actions and address perceived efforts to sway public opinion, contrasting with the positive responses from higher prosecutorial leadership to parliamentary input.

Indonesia has pioneered restrictions on social media access for children under 16, effective from 28 March 2026, prompting a global trend among developed nations. France is set to vote on banning access for those under 15, with President Macron aiming for implementation by September, while the UK provides parental guidelines limiting screen time for young children and Austria plans a ban for under-14s to protect against addictive algorithms and harmful content. This movement highlights growing international concerns over the impact of social media on youth development, potentially influencing global digital policies.

The Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR) has urged the Indonesian government to respond to the global fossil energy crisis with realistic and measured policies that reduce energy dependency without imposing new fiscal burdens. While commending the direction of current policies on energy transition, efficiency, and supply diversification, IESR warns that implementation must be rigorously tested for technical, economic, and sustainability aspects, particularly scrutinising high-risk programmes like the 100 GW solar power plant development and B50 biodiesel acceleration. The think tank also emphasises the need for transparent energy supply data to maintain public trust and cautions against unlimited energy subsidies amid potential oil price surges that could balloon fiscal costs to Rp460 trillion.

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has announced that the emergency response status for hydrometeorological disasters in Kudus Regency, Central Java, will remain in place until 31 May 2026, following severe rain and strong winds that damaged hundreds of residents' homes. This status, outlined in a decree by the Kudus Regent, aims to enhance preparedness against floods, landslides, and strong winds, enabling coordinated efforts by the military, police, and volunteers to assist 397 affected families. BNPB is urging Central Java authorities to strengthen cross-sectoral coordination amid ongoing forecasts of extreme weather in the coming weeks.

The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) has introduced a one-day weekly work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants to support energy conservation efforts amid Middle East tensions, with Fridays designated for remote work while maintaining office presence for essential public services. This measure, distinct from work-from-anywhere arrangements, ensures employees remain accessible for urgent tasks and aligns with a broader government directive starting 1 April 2026, to be evaluated after two months. The policy underscores Indonesia's proactive response to potential energy challenges, balancing efficiency with service continuity in public administration.

PT PLN is offering a Rp10,000 discount on electricity bill payments made through the PLN Mobile app using the promo code THRLEBARAN, available from 1 to 5 April 2026, specifically at 10:00 WIB each day, with limited quotas and terms applying. This promotion coincides with the introduction of new electricity tariffs effective from 1 April 2026 for household, industrial, and subsidised residential customers. The initiative aims to provide relief to consumers amid the tariff adjustments, highlighting PLN's efforts to engage digital payment methods.

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has declared Indonesia's comprehensive special strategic partnership as the only such unique relationship his country holds with any nation worldwide, during a state visit by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to the Blue House. The leaders discussed deepening cooperation across strategic sectors in a warm and constructive bilateral meeting, highlighting Indonesia's pivotal role as a key strategic partner for South Korea amid global geopolitical and economic dynamics. President Prabowo expressed deep appreciation for the warm reception, underscoring the positive trajectory and vast potential for elevating bilateral ties to new heights.

Three Indonesian peacekeepers with the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) have been killed in separate incidents involving explosions and attacks in southern Lebanon, prompting an emergency UN Security Council meeting requested by Indonesia and France. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has denied any involvement, stating that no explosives were planted by them and no troops were present at the sites. This escalation comes amid heightened tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, with the UN emphasising that peacekeepers must not be targeted, highlighting the volatile security situation in the Middle East and Indonesia's role in international peacekeeping efforts.

Indonesia's Minister of Manpower, Yassierli, has clarified that the new work-from-home (WFH) policy, mandating one day per week for private sector employees, will not diminish workers' rights, ensuring full wage payments and unchanged annual leave entitlements. This directive, outlined in a ministerial circular following presidential instructions, aims to optimise energy use while maintaining productivity, with exemptions for essential sectors like healthcare, energy, and finance. Labour representatives have welcomed the policy as an opportunity to transform national work culture, emphasising the need for strict oversight to prevent violations.

The Jakarta Provincial Government has outlined its energy transition policy through Regional Regulation No. 5 of 2023 on the Jakarta Regional Energy General Plan (RUED) for 2023–2050, aiming for environmentally friendly energy needs, optimal use of clean energy technologies, and increased public participation in the energy sector. Professor Syamsir Abduh from Trisakti University emphasises the urgent need to form or strengthen a Regional-Owned Enterprise (BUMD) in the energy sector to drive implementation, enhance regional energy sovereignty, boost local revenue, and accelerate the shift to clean energy towards achieving net zero emissions by 2050. Key targets include 75% electrification of vehicles by 2050, 50% household adoption of electric stoves, and development of hydrogen-based technologies, all of which require coordinated execution through a dedicated institutional vehicle to avoid reliance on external parties.

The ongoing conflict in Iran has unexpectedly boosted Russia's economy by driving up global energy prices, providing Moscow with billions in windfall revenue from oil and gas sales despite Western sanctions. This surge, particularly in Urals crude prices exceeding $115 per barrel, offers financial relief to the Kremlin, allowing President Putin to postpone unpopular spending cuts and sustain military efforts in Ukraine. However, experts caution that these gains mask underlying economic fragility in Russia, while diverting US military resources from Ukraine further benefits Moscow geopolitically.

The Governor of West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) is set to issue a circular regulating work-from-home (WFH) arrangements exclusively for Fridays, aimed at enhancing budgetary efficiency through savings on fuel and operational costs. While most civil servants (ASN) will be permitted to work remotely on that day, high-ranking officials including department heads and echelon I and II officials must continue reporting to the office to ensure effective implementation. The policy, currently under finalisation with the Regional Civil Service Agency, will commence in the second week of April 2026 and requires detailed reporting on performance targets and cost savings to the Minister of Home Affairs.

Indonesia's Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, has assured that national energy stocks, including LPG, remain above safe levels despite global geopolitical tensions, maintaining stable prices and no surge in demand. At a Jakarta agent, the owner confirmed no supply issues or price hikes, with subsidised 3kg LPG at Rp17,000, non-subsidised 5.5kg Bright Gas at Rp90,000, and 12kg at Rp192,000. The government has secured alternative import sources beyond the Middle East and urges prudent usage, given that 70% of Indonesia's LPG is imported.

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has affirmed that Indonesia is the primary investment destination for Korean companies, highlighting its role as a valuable partner in the development of Korea's defence industry during a bilateral meeting with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at the Blue House on 1 April 2026. Lee expressed optimism about the future of Indonesia-South Korea relations, citing successful past collaborations and the potential for broader cooperation that directly benefits both nations' populations. The leaders aim to create more future projects to enhance mutual benefits, building on the strong foundation of their partnership.

The East Java provincial government has implemented a work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants every Wednesday starting 1 April 2026, aimed at reducing fuel consumption amid global energy tensions from Middle East conflicts. This differs from the central government's Friday WFH instruction, chosen to avoid increased weekend travel, with strict monitoring to ensure productivity and digital attendance. The policy targets savings of up to 108,000 litres of fuel and reduced energy use, excluding the education sector, and remains open to future alignment with national directives.

Indonesia's Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has confirmed that the government's work-from-home policy for civil servants does not extend to teachers, ensuring that in-person learning continues uninterrupted. Minister Abdul Mu'ti emphasised the unique nature of education, prioritising direct teacher-student interactions for quality learning outcomes. While schools maintain stability amid broader work culture transformations, they are encouraged to contribute to national efficiency goals through sustainable practices under the Gerakan Indonesia ASRI initiative.

PT Indodax Nasional Indonesia is bolstering its educational efforts on cryptocurrency assets amid rising public interest in digital investments, highlighting the critical role of risk management for retail investors. Through the Indodax Academy, the company provides resources on blockchain, Bitcoin, mining, and other crypto assets to foster better-informed decision-making and disciplined risk practices. The initiative aligns with Indodax's recent accolades in the Most Trusted Financial Brand Awards 2026 and its commitment to enhancing platform security and services for over 9.8 million users since 2014.

Indonesia's Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has announced agreements with Japan to enhance bilateral cooperation in forestry and climate initiatives, including sustainable forest management, carbon investment, and wildlife conservation such as the Komodo dragon. These efforts, discussed during President Prabowo Subianto's state visit to Japan, encompass opportunities for private sector involvement in carbon economy development via the Carbon Economic Value scheme and voluntary carbon trading. The partnerships also involve joint projects with JICA for mangrove management, the Joint Crediting Mechanism, and potential sister park arrangements to bolster global climate mitigation and adaptation strategies.

President Prabowo Subianto met with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung in Seoul, emphasising the strategic importance of his first state visit and viewing Korea as a close ally to Indonesia. The leaders agreed to expand cooperation across various sectors, highlighting mutual interests in the Pacific region, trade, and economic prosperity, while leveraging South Korea's industrial and technological advancements alongside Indonesia's abundant natural resources. Prabowo stressed the need for open and honest dialogue to maintain constructive relations amid global uncertainties, urging ministers from both nations to realise enhanced strategic partnerships.

Indonesia faces a significant mental health crisis, with 68.7% of adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety and 20% suffering from emotional disorders, resulting in annual economic losses of Rp463 trillion, equivalent to 2.1% of GDP, primarily due to lost productivity. A recent webinar by Triftin and Attentive highlighted strategies for emotional regulation, drawing from the life story of Bjorn Natthiko Lindeblad and techniques like grounding and coping to address overthinking and anxiety. The author advocates for government subsidies on therapy and self-development books to improve access to mental health resources, viewing such investments as essential for building a resilient workforce towards Indonesia's Golden Vision 2045.

The Directorate General for the Development of the Hajj and Umrah Economic Ecosystem (Ditjen PE2HU) under the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has confirmed that production and distribution of spices and ready-to-eat (RTE) meals for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage are proceeding according to plan, with an estimated 360 tonnes of 51 spice varieties required for Mecca and Medina. Coordination meetings with suppliers aim to mitigate supply chain issues, ensuring timely delivery to Saudi Arabia by 10 April 2026 and optimal use in catering kitchens to enhance pilgrim services. This preparation underscores the ministry's commitment to high-quality consumption services for Indonesian pilgrims, aligning with broader efforts for 100% readiness and transparent management of the Rp18 trillion operational budget under KPK and Police oversight.

Indonesia's Trade Minister Budi Santoso reported that consumer confidence in the national economy stayed at an optimistic level in February 2026, driven by heightened consumption during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. Bank Indonesia's Consumer Confidence Index reached 125.2, supported by a Current Economic Index of 115.9 and an Expectations Index of 134.4, reflecting stable perceptions of economic conditions and purchasing power. Retail sales are projected to grow by 6.9% year-on-year and 4.4% month-on-month, boosted by demand in categories like spare parts, household goods, and clothing.

The Indonesian government is considering imposing export duties on coal and nickel to bolster state revenues amid high commodity prices and geopolitical tensions, sparking debates between fiscal authorities and the energy ministry over potential impacts on the mining industry. Companies like PT Indo Tambangraya Megah Tbk (ITMG) face significant margin pressures due to their heavy reliance on high-calorie coal exports, while integrated firms such as PT Alamtri Resources Indonesia Tbk (ADRO) may mitigate effects through operational efficiencies, and domestic-focused PT Bukit Asam Tbk (PTBA) remains relatively insulated. Similar policies targeting nickel downstream products aim to accelerate investments in electric vehicle battery processing, affecting emitters like PT Trimegah Bangun Persada Tbk (NCKL) and PT Merdeka Battery Materials Tbk (MBMA), though PT Aneka Tambang Tbk (ANTM) demonstrates resilience with diversified revenues.

BMW plans to begin collecting images, videos, and sensor data from customer vehicles in Germany starting 1 April 2026, specifically from the new iX3 and i3 models, to improve its semi-autonomous driving systems. The data collection, which requires user consent and complies with data protection regulations, will focus on real-world driving events to enhance features like automatic emergency braking, lane change assistance, and urban road aids, while prioritising privacy by blurring faces and licence plates. This initiative underscores BMW's commitment to safer, more responsive autonomous technologies through actual user behaviour insights.

Traders at Jakarta's Kramat Jati Main Market are facing severe disruptions from rubbish piles reaching up to six metres high, primarily consisting of vegetable and fruit waste, which has led to a 30% drop in their sales as customers avoid the area due to the stench and poor conditions. Despite daily collections by the Jakarta Environment Agency (DLH) and complaints to PD Pasar Jaya, the issue persists for over a month, exacerbated by operational restrictions at the Bantargebang TPST landfill. This situation contradicts Governor Pramono Anung's claims of resolved waste management across Jakarta, highlighting ongoing challenges in urban sanitation and its impact on local livelihoods.

Hendarsam Marantoko, the newly appointed Director General of Immigration at the Ministry of Immigration and Community Corrections, has outlined four core functions of immigration—public service, law enforcement, security, and sovereignty—all centred on the vision of "Immigration for the People." He emphasised that these functions, already performing well, will be maintained and enhanced through innovative programmes that facilitate public access, particularly in economic, tourism, scientific, and investment sectors. This approach aims to prioritise citizen benefits in immigration policies, underscoring a people-centric reform in government operations.

Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower has urged private companies, state-owned enterprises, and regional public companies to implement work-from-home (WFH) policies for one day per week, as outlined in Circular Letter No. M/6/HK.04/III/2026, to optimise energy use in workplaces. While not mandatory, the policy emphasises maintaining productivity and service quality, with implementation details left to individual companies' discretion based on operational needs. This initiative aims to promote flexibility without disrupting business operations, though specific excluded sectors are not detailed in the announcement.

PT Penjaminan Jamkrindo Syariah reported a robust financial performance in 2025, with net profit soaring to Rp141.03 billion, a 160 percent increase from Rp54.11 billion in 2024, driven by enhanced business quality and risk management. Total assets reached Rp2.46 trillion, while equity strengthened to Rp1.41 trillion, underscoring a solid capital structure and operational improvements. The company, audited with an unqualified opinion, remains committed to supporting productive sectors, particularly SMEs, and expanding the national sharia financial ecosystem through professional guarantee services.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has met with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung during his first state visit to Seoul, emphasising the importance of strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations. Prabowo highlighted shared interests as Pacific trading countries with complementary roles in strategic sectors, while stressing the need for open and honest relations to foster economic prosperity and regional stability amid global uncertainties. He called on both countries' ministers to elevate their cooperation to new heights.

Sultan Baktiar Najamudin, Chairman of Indonesia's Regional Representative Council (DPD RI), received an Honorary Doctorate in International Regional Studies from Korea Maritime and Ocean University (KMOU) in Busan, South Korea, recognising his contributions to maritime cooperation and advocacy for island and coastal communities. The ceremony coincided with the launch of the Korea-Indonesia Maritime Cooperation Forum, highlighting KMOU's internationalisation strategy and potential for sustainable economic collaboration between the two nations. Najamudin emphasised the sea's role in uniting civilisations and aligning with Indonesia's green and blue economy visions, underscoring the award's significance in strengthening bilateral ties and regional development policies.

Approximately 147 million Indonesians undertook journeys for the 2026 Eid al-Fitr homecoming, marking a 2.5% increase over initial surveys, according to mobile positioning data from 13-29 March. Public transport usage rose significantly, with 23.54 million passengers, up from 21.23 million in 2025, showing increases across road, sea, and ferry modes. Around 2.9 million vehicles departed from Jabodetabek, a 4% rise, primarily heading east to Central Java, Yogyakarta, and East Java, highlighting robust mobility and economic activity during the festive period.

PT Telkom Indonesia is bolstering the artificial intelligence ecosystem in eastern Indonesia by enhancing the role of the AI Centre in Makassar as a hub for innovation and digital talent development. During a recent visit, Telkom's IT Digital Director, Faizal Rochmad Djoemadi, reviewed local innovations and emphasised the need for collaboration among tech firms, developers, and educational institutions to drive AI adoption for societal and industrial benefits. The centre, part of Telkom's AI Centre of Excellence initiative, supports comprehensive AI ecosystem building through research collaboration, talent development, and practical solutions like machine learning for business classification and deep learning for medical diagnostics.

Rear Admiral TNI Edwin has been officially appointed as the Deputy Chief of Naval Staff, succeeding Rear Admiral TNI Erwin Aldedharma, who will take up the role of Deputy Governor of the Indonesian National Defence College. The handover ceremony, presided over by Chief of Naval Staff Admiral TNI Muhammad Ali, also included transitions for other key positions such as Assistant for Intelligence and Commander of the Naval Technology College. This personnel rotation underscores the Indonesian Navy's commitment to fostering professional, adaptive, and visionary leadership to address increasingly complex challenges in safeguarding maritime sovereignty.

Indonesia's annual inflation rate surged to 3.48% in March 2026, significantly higher than the 1.03% recorded in the same month the previous year, primarily due to lingering low-base effects from government electricity tariff discounts in early 2025. The housing, water, electricity, and household fuel category saw the highest inflation at 7.24%, contributing 1.08% to the overall figure, while food, beverages, and tobacco inflation stood at 3.34%. All provinces experienced inflation, with Aceh recording the highest at 5.31% and Lampung the lowest at 1.16%, highlighting the need for vigilant economic policies amid global uncertainties.

Petrokimia Gresik, a subsidiary of Pupuk Indonesia, is bolstering its strategy to secure sulphur supplies, a critical commodity for the national fertiliser and chemical industries, in the face of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The company, which operates a sulphuric acid plant with a capacity of 1.8 million tonnes per year integrated with fertiliser production, highlighted that Indonesia imports over 75% of its sulphur needs from the region, where 33% of global trade originates. This initiative underscores Petrokimia Gresik's role in enhancing national food security and industrial self-reliance as domestic sulphuric acid demand reaches 19 million tonnes annually, driven by fertiliser and nickel downstream sectors.

Economic analyst Ibrahim Assuaibi has criticised the government's decision to keep fuel prices unchanged amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, noting that commodity prices in Indonesia have already risen significantly, with some increases exceeding 100%. He highlighted examples such as plastic prices doubling due to imported raw materials derived from crude oil, alongside anticipated surges in fertiliser, soybeans, staple foods, ready-to-eat meals, electronics, and even transportation fares. This situation underscores the vulnerability of Indonesia's economy to global oil price fluctuations despite stable domestic fuel costs.

The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) has provided relief to residents affected by a landslide in Pasirlangu Village, Cisarua District, West Bandung Regency, by distributing 6,000 food packages and setting up a health service post that assisted around 1,300 people with general check-ups, specialist consultations, and laboratory services. Additionally, 300 pairs of free glasses were given out to support the community's needs. This initiative, timed to coincide with the 80th anniversary of TNI AU, underscores the military's commitment to humanitarian efforts and strengthening ties with the public beyond its defence roles.

Deputy Chairman of Commission III of the Indonesian Parliament, Ahmad Sahroni, has defended the transfer of the investigation into the acid attack on human rights activist Andrie Yunus from police to the Indonesian National Armed Forces' Military Police Centre (Puspom TNI), arguing that it is legally sound due to the involvement of military personnel. Legal experts and civil society groups, including the Indonesian Legal Aid Foundation (YLBHI) and Jakarta Legal Aid Institute (LBH Jakarta), have criticised the move as flawed and unlawful, highlighting the lack of regulatory basis, absence of a memorandum of understanding, and the police's failure to pursue intellectual authors, financiers, and broader networks behind the attack that involved at least 16 suspects. This controversy underscores vulnerabilities in Indonesia's criminal justice system, particularly regarding coordination between civilian and military authorities under the new Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP).

The ongoing war in Iran, initiated by US and Israeli strikes on nuclear facilities, is heightening nuclear threats in the Middle East and potentially sparking an arms race among regional powers. Experts warn that while the conflict aims to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions, it may instead drive countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, and Turkey towards nuclear latency for deterrence, as seen in historical cases like North Korea and Ukraine. This shift could undermine global non-proliferation efforts, including the NPT, amid shifting security dynamics and US alliances.

The Medan Corruption Court panel has acquitted Amsal Christy Sitepu, ruling that the prosecution failed to prove corruption charges related to a village profile video project in North Sumatra's Karo Regency. This verdict contrasts sharply with the prosecutors' demand for a two-year prison sentence, a Rp50 million fine, and restitution of over Rp202 million, highlighting potential weaknesses in the evidence presented against Sitepu. The decision restores Sitepu's rights and reputation, underscoring the judiciary's role in ensuring due process in anti-corruption cases.

The Iranian Ambassador to Indonesia, Mohammad Boroujerdi, unexpectedly met with former President Joko Widodo in Solo, Central Java, to discuss regional developments, the impacts of the imposed war on Iran, and its humanitarian and economic consequences. Jokowi expressed sympathy for the Iranian people and Indonesia's support for Iran's defence of its sovereignty and territorial integrity, while also voicing hopes for peace and stability in the region. The meeting reaffirmed the long-standing friendly relations between Iran and Indonesia, emphasising the need for continued dialogue and enhanced bilateral cooperation.

A new Covid-19 variant, codenamed BA.3.2 and dubbed "Cicada", is gaining global attention, but Indonesia's Ministry of Health has confirmed it has not yet been detected in the country as of late March 2026. The dominant variants circulating in Indonesia remain low-risk strains like XFG, LF.7, and XFG 3.4.3, prompting officials to urge the public to maintain vigilance through healthy habits without panicking. Symptoms of the Cicada variant are similar to previous Omicron strains, including sore throat, fever, cough, fatigue, and congestion, with experts noting its potential to evade vaccines but no evidence of increased severity.