Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 April 2026

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Government Raises Rp40 Trillion from This Week's Government Bond Auction

The Indonesian government successfully raised Rp40 trillion through an auction of nine series of Government Bonds (SUN) on 31 March 2026, with total bids reaching Rp58.22 trillion. The largest allocation was for the FR0109 series at Rp16.7 trillion with a weighted average yield of 6.57944%, maturing on 15 March 2031, while other notable series included FR0108 and new issuances like SPN12270401. This auction reflects strong investor interest in Indonesian sovereign debt, supporting the government's financing needs amid economic stability.

PHE-INPEX Alliance Launched, Targeting Oil and Gas Projects in Southeast Asia

PT Pertamina Hulu Energi (PHE) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Japan's INPEX Corporation to explore upstream oil and gas opportunities in Indonesia and Southeast Asia, marking a key step in PHE's international expansion strategy. The agreement, inked during the Indonesia-Japan Business Forum in Tokyo, aims to develop commercially viable projects that also bolster regional energy security, building on prior collaborations such as the Abadi Project in Indonesia and the SK510 Block in Malaysia. This partnership underscores PHE's commitment to global competitiveness and adherence to ESG principles, including anti-bribery measures.

BGN Suspends Dozens of SPPGs in Central Lombok to Maintain MBG Quality

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has temporarily suspended operations of 80 Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPGs) in Central Lombok, out of 300 across West Nusa Tenggara, due to non-compliance with operational standards, including the absence of proper wastewater treatment facilities (IPAL) and Hygiene Sanitation Certificates (SLHS). This measure addresses community complaints about environmental impacts such as odours from waste and aims to ensure the quality, nutritional value, and safety of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. SPPG operators are urged to promptly rectify these issues to resume operations, in line with government technical guidelines for the 2026 fiscal year.

Indonesia Records Trade Deficit with China, Large Surplus with the United States

Indonesia posted a trade surplus of US$1.27 billion in February 2026, marking 70 consecutive months of surpluses, driven by robust exports of US$22.17 billion against imports of US$20.89 billion. The surplus was primarily supported by strong performances with the United States (US$3.53 billion), India (US$2.29 billion), and the Philippines (US$1.54 billion), alongside positive balances with ASEAN and the EU. However, a deepening deficit of US$5.23 billion with China highlights ongoing trade imbalances, with additional deficits noted with Australia and Singapore.

Iran-US-Israel Conflict Spurs Push to Accelerate Indonesia's Electrification

Geopolitical tensions in the Gulf between Iran, the United States, and Israel are prompting Indonesia to expedite its electrification efforts to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, amid risks of global energy supply disruptions via the Strait of Hormuz. Economist Defiyan Cori advocates shifting subsidies from petrol and LPG to electric cooking and vehicles, supporting President Prabowo Subianto's commitment to renewable energy transition and a 100 GW solar power initiative. This move aims to bolster national energy resilience, with recommendations for pilot projects, public education, and incentives for low-income groups to facilitate a smoother shift.

Energy Efficiency: Bogor Mayor Urges Civil Servants to Switch to Public Transport

Bogor Mayor Dedie A. Rachim has encouraged civil servants in the city government to use public transport as part of an energy efficiency drive, aligning with the central government's Work From Home policy. For those without access to public options, alternatives like two-wheeled vehicles or electric transport are recommended, with official vehicle fuel budgets for department heads slashed by 50 per cent. The mayor is leading by example, opting for public transport on trips such as to Bandung, highlighting a broader push towards sustainable and cost-effective mobility in local governance.

Pasar Jaya deploys 33 rubbish trucks to handle waste mountain at Kramat Jati Main Market

Perumda Pasar Jaya has mobilised 33 rubbish trucks to address a massive 6,970-tonne waste pile-up at the Kramat Jati Main Market in East Jakarta, aiming to restore normal operations and ensure public comfort. The effort involves coordination with the DKI Jakarta Provincial Environment Agency, with ongoing clean-up to prevent further environmental hazards like wall collapses and waterway blockages. Future waste management at the market will be outsourced to a third party to improve efficiency.

Medan District Court Judge Acquits Amsal Sitepu Due to Unproven Corruption

The Medan Corruption Court has acquitted Amsal Christy Sitepu of corruption charges related to a village profile video project in Karo Regency, North Sumatra, ruling that the allegations were not proven. This decision contrasts with the prosecutors' demand for a two-year prison sentence, a fine of Rp50 million, and restitution of over Rp202 million for alleged state losses. The acquittal restores Sitepu's rights, dignity, and good name, highlighting the judiciary's scrutiny in corruption cases.

Waingapu shrimp exports projected to reach Rp4.85 trillion annually

The integrated shrimp farming project in Waingapu, East Nusa Tenggara, is expected to generate foreign exchange earnings of up to US$285 million (approximately Rp4.85 trillion) per year through exports, according to officials from the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries. With a total investment of Rp7.2 trillion, the initiative is projected to boost East Sumba's regional gross domestic product by 34.7% and create around 8,820 jobs, while lifting 55% of the local poor population out of structural poverty. This sustainable aquaculture model, spanning 2,150 hectares, aims to produce 52,000 tonnes of shrimp annually and serve as a blueprint for best practices in the sector.

Middle East Conflict Threatens Indonesian Tourism, Tourism Minister Prepares Strategy: Targets Asian Tourists - Prepares Visa-Free Entry

The ongoing Middle East conflict, including the closure of Iranian airspace, has led to the cancellation of 770 flights to Indonesia between February and March 2026, potentially resulting in the loss of 60,000 international tourists and Rp2.04 trillion in foreign exchange. Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana has outlined strategies to mitigate this impact, including shifting focus to Asian markets, enhancing digital campaigns, and promoting domestic tourism to sustain the sector's role as a key economic driver. The DPR's Commission VII has praised these efforts but urged stronger domestic connectivity and consideration of differing tourist behaviours across regions.

Following Indonesia, List of Countries That Have Implemented WFH to Save Fuel

Indonesia has introduced a work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants one day per week, specifically on Fridays, to save on fuel subsidies amid rising global oil prices triggered by the Middle East conflict, potentially saving the state budget Rp 6.2 trillion. Private sector employees are encouraged but not mandated to follow suit. Several other nations, including Pakistan, Thailand, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, and Egypt, have similarly adopted WFH and energy-saving measures to mitigate the economic impact of soaring fuel costs.

Ministry of Creative Economy and Folago Discuss Creator Monetisation Opportunities

The Ministry of Creative Economy (Bekraf) is exploring collaboration with Folago Global Nusantara to enhance creator talent development and the creative economy ecosystem, focusing on human resource capacity, ecosystem access expansion, and monetisation opportunities. During the meeting, Minister Riefky emphasised the importance of cross-sector partnerships to create quality jobs and position the creative economy as a new growth engine, while Folago's Subioto Jingga highlighted their Folago Academy to connect creators with production and distribution networks. This initiative aims to convert Indonesia's vast creator potential into tangible economic value through targeted programmes involving academia, local communities, and digital platforms.

Global Journey of 'Taste of Nusantara' Book Strengthens Indonesia's Gastrodiplomacy

The book 'Taste of Nusantara: 80 Bhayangkara Menu for Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals Program' continues its international outreach, now officially launched in South Korea following visits to Europe, America, the Middle East, and Japan. This initiative, spearheaded by Deputy Chief of National Police Commissioner General Dedi Prasetyo and Presidential Special Assistant Dirgayuza Setiawan, promotes Indonesia's gastrodiplomacy by blending cultural diplomacy with the nation's Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG). The handover to Indonesian Ambassador to South Korea Cecep Herawan underscores efforts to enhance bilateral cooperation in public policy and human resource development, positioning Indonesia as a global advocate for humanitarian values through cuisine.

Tangerang Deputy Regent: PP Tunas Strengthens Young Generation in the Digital Era

The Deputy Regent of Tangerang, Intan Nurul Hikmah, has praised Government Regulation Number 17 of 2025 on the Governance of Electronic Systems in Child Protection (PP Tunas) as a vital step to safeguard the youth amid rapid digitalisation. She emphasised the importance of restricting social media access for children under 16, as outlined in Ministerial Regulation Number 9 of 2026, to shield them from harmful content such as pornography, violence, and online gambling, while promoting a safe and educational digital environment through collaboration among government, schools, families, and platform providers. Effective from 28 March 2026, the regulation initially targets eight high-risk platforms including YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, with penalties for non-compliance, aiming to foster a healthy, child-friendly digital ecosystem that encourages responsible technology use.

List of Goods Prices Rise During Eid 2026: From Gold to Food!

Indonesia's annual inflation rate fell to 3.48% in March 2026 from 4.86% in February, despite the typically consumption-boosting Eid al-Fitr holiday. However, this figure remains significantly higher than the 1.03% recorded in March 2025, driven by price increases in housing, personal care (particularly gold jewellery), and food commodities. The Central Statistics Agency highlights that while some sectors experienced deflation, the overall consumer price index rose, underscoring persistent inflationary pressures amid festive demand.

Expert Views ASN WFH Every Friday as Beneficial for Energy-Saving Efforts

An expert in regional autonomy, Djohermansyah Djohan, has praised the Indonesian government's policy of implementing work-from-home (WFH) for civil servants (ASN) every Friday, stating that it significantly reduces fuel consumption and operational costs in government offices, thereby aiding energy conservation efforts. With approximately 6 million ASN across central and local governments, the measure is seen as a practical step towards digitalisation in bureaucracy while promoting fiscal prudence amid economic challenges. However, its overall effectiveness will depend on government evaluations, particularly regarding fuel savings.

Government Urges SOEs and Private Sector to Implement WFH One Day per Week

Indonesia's Minister of Manpower, Yassierli, has issued a circular urging state-owned enterprises (SOEs), regional public enterprises, and private companies to adopt work-from-home (WFH) policies for one day per week to optimise energy use amid global oil supply disruptions. This measure responds to escalating tensions between the US-Israel and Iran, which have driven crude oil prices to around US$100 per barrel, far exceeding the 2026 state budget assumption of US$70. The policy ensures workers' rights remain protected, excludes essential sectors, and will be evaluated after two months, promoting adaptive work practices and energy savings.

Prosecutor's Office Strengthens Law Enforcement in Papua, Focusing on High-Value Cases

The Attorney General has directed enhanced law enforcement efforts in Papua, emphasising restorative justice aligned with local customs while ensuring professional and accountable handling of cases, particularly high-profile ones like the Merauke aircraft shooting and corruption in PON XX funding. Appreciation was given to units actively investigating corruption, though some were reprimanded for passivity, with ongoing major cases including Mimika aerosport facilities and a Rp97.14 billion backlog in state loss recovery. The directives underscore the Prosecutor's commitment to transparency, asset recovery—successfully returning Rp15.5 billion by March 2026—and vigilance against counter-attacks from corruptors to deliver true justice to Papuan society.

BPS: Annual Inflation Reaches 3.48 Percent Influenced by "Low Base Effect"

Indonesia's annual inflation rate rose to 3.48 percent in March 2026 from 1.03 percent the previous year, primarily due to the lingering low base effect from government electricity tariff discounts in early 2025. While monthly inflation stood at 0.41 percent, the housing, water, electricity, and household fuel category saw the highest annual inflation of 7.24 percent, contributing significantly to the overall figure. All provinces experienced inflation, with Aceh recording the highest at 5.31 percent and Lampung the lowest at 1.16 percent, highlighting stable but regionally varied price dynamics.

Commission II: WFH on Fridays Not Ideal, Will Turn into Long Weekend

Indonesia's Commission II DPR member Muhammad Khozin has criticised the government's decision to implement work-from-home (WFH) for civil servants on Fridays, arguing that it risks turning into an extended weekend and undermining productivity. While acknowledging the policy's aim to save fuel amid global conflicts and potentially cut state budget expenditure by Rp6.2 trillion, Khozin calls for regular evaluations to ensure maintained public service efficiency and reduced fuel consumption. He also urges the use of this initiative to improve public transportation and control air pollution through cross-ministerial coordination.

Connecting road between Padang and Medan closed due to landslide in Palupuh, Agam

A landslide buried a 20-metre stretch of the national road linking Padang in West Sumatra to Medan in North Sumatra, specifically at kilometre 32 in Jorong Sariak Laweh, Nagari Nan Limo, Palupuh District, Agam Regency, following heavy rainfall on Wednesday morning. Heavy equipment from the Balai Pengelolaan Jalan Nasional (BPJN) was deployed to clear the debris, restoring partial traffic flow for two- and four-wheeled vehicles by 10:30 WIB through an alternating system, with local police managing the flow. Authorities have urged drivers to exercise heightened caution in the area, which remains prone to landslides during high rainfall.

Total transactions from Ramadan-Eid shopping programmes reach Rp160 trillion

Indonesia's Ministry of Trade reported that national shopping programmes during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 2026 generated approximately Rp180 trillion in transactions, surpassing targets through initiatives like Friday Mubarak and Bina Lebaran. These efforts involved extensive participation from brands, retailers, and markets across the country, boosting consumer visits to shopping centres by 12% year-on-year and supporting overall economic consumption in food, beverages, and entertainment. The government plans to extend such programmes throughout the year to sustain public purchasing power.

Giant Shrimp Pond Project Accelerated, Indonesia's Shrimp Production Set to Overflow

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries is advancing a massive Rp 7.2 trillion shrimp farming project in Waingapu, East Sumbawa, NTT, spanning 2,150 hectares and designed as an environmentally friendly integrated model. Once complete, it aims to produce 52,000 tonnes of shrimp annually using best practices of 40 tonnes per hectare, targeting both domestic consumption and exports to markets like the US and China. This initiative is poised to significantly boost Indonesia's shrimp output and enhance its position in the global aquaculture sector.

OJK Revokes Business Licence of Bank Perekonomian Rakyat Pembangunan Nagari, Here is the Reason

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has revoked the business licence of PT Bank Perekonomian Rakyat (BPR) Pembangunan Nagari in Agam Regency, West Sumatra, due to its failure to meet the minimum capital adequacy ratio of 12 per cent, following a period under recovery status. This action, part of OJK's efforts to strengthen the banking industry and maintain public trust, involves liquidation overseen by the Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS). OJK has reassured customers that their deposits are guaranteed by LPS under prevailing regulations, highlighting the regulatory safeguards in place for rural banks.

Precious Metals and Jewellery Drive Indonesia's Imports to US$20.89 Billion in February 2026

Indonesia's imports surged to US$20.89 billion in February 2026, marking a 10.85% increase from the previous year, primarily driven by a 18.24% rise in non-oil and gas imports, with precious metals and jewellery playing a key role. Cumulative imports for January-February 2026 reached US$42.09 billion, up 14.44%, led by auxiliary raw materials such as chemicals and electrical machinery, sourced mainly from China, Australia, Singapore, and the EU, while ASEAN imports declined. This growth highlights strengthening demand for industrial inputs amid ongoing economic recovery, potentially impacting the trade balance.

Pramono Bans DKI Civil Servants from WFH in Cafes: Sanctions Guaranteed

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has issued a stern warning to civil servants (ASN) against misusing the Work From Home (WFH) policy on Fridays by working from cafes or entertainment venues, promising strict sanctions for violators. The policy, aligned with central government directives to enhance energy efficiency amid global conflicts, requires ASN to work from their residences and use public transport instead of private vehicles. Oversight will be enforced through online attendance systems, with restrictions also applied to official travel to reduce costs and environmental impact.

Directorate General of Immigration Complies with WFH Policy for Civil Servants

The Directorate General of Immigration has affirmed its commitment to implementing the government's work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN), awaiting detailed guidelines from the Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform (PANRB) to ensure proper execution. The policy, set to begin on 1 April 2026 with one day per week on Fridays, aims to enhance welfare but excludes critical sectors such as public services, healthcare, security, and strategic industries like energy and finance. Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto announced the measure, which will also encourage private sector adoption through labour ministry circulars, with evaluations planned after two months.

Businessman Challenges New Criminal Code's Corruption Articles at Constitutional Court for Being Overly Broad

Indonesian entrepreneur Ngarijan Salim has filed a constitutional challenge against Articles 603 and 604 of the new Criminal Code (KUHP), arguing that their broad phrasing—such as "enriching oneself" and "harming state finances"—could turn them into "sweeping clauses" that criminalise legitimate business activities and policy decisions. This follows his acquittal at the Medan Corruption Court, which was overturned on appeal by the Supreme Court, highlighting inconsistencies in interpreting corruption laws. The case raises significant concerns about the potential overreach of Indonesia's updated anti-corruption framework under Law No. 1 of 2023, potentially affecting business practices and judicial fairness.

Minister of Basic and Secondary Education Affirms Schools Will Continue Face-to-Face Learning

The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has affirmed that learning activities in all basic and secondary education levels will continue face-to-face as normal, despite the national work culture transformation policy that introduces flexible arrangements like one day of work from home per week for civil servants. This prioritisation underscores the essential role of direct interaction in education, while schools are encouraged to support energy efficiency through eco-friendly practices and the Gerakan Indonesia ASRI initiative for sustainable learning environments. The policy aims to maintain public service stability in education, foster quality human resource development, and contribute to national goals of economic stability and energy resilience.

Ministry of Manpower Encourages One Day of Work from Home for Private Companies, Implementation Regulated by Firms

The Indonesian Ministry of Manpower has issued a circular urging private companies, state-owned enterprises, and regional enterprises to implement work from home (WFH) for one day per week to optimise energy use at workplaces. Implementation is left to the discretion of each company based on operational conditions, with workers required to maintain productivity and performance, and without affecting annual leave entitlements. Exemptions apply to essential sectors including health, energy, infrastructure, public services, basic trade, industry, transportation, logistics, and finance to ensure uninterrupted operations.

KSP: Red and White Fishermen's Village Boosts Productivity by Twofold

The Presidential Staff Office reports that the pilot Red and White Fishermen's Village (KNMP) in Papua has doubled fishermen's productivity and income, with catches rising from 5.35 to 10.85 tonnes per year per fisherman and monthly earnings increasing by 75% to Rp7.73 million. This initiative, part of a government priority programme, integrates fishing activities from capture to marketing to strengthen the marine economy and food security, with Phase 1 construction nearly complete at 99.23% and ambitious plans for 1,000 locations by 2026. The success demonstrates how proper infrastructure and systems can enhance production and value addition in coastal communities across Indonesia.

Iran War Heats Up, China-Pakistan Step In to Save Hormuz

Pakistan and China have jointly released a five-point peace proposal for the Middle East amid escalating conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran, aiming to secure a ceasefire and protect vital sea lanes like the Strait of Hormuz. Pakistan is positioning itself as a key mediator, leveraging ties with both sides, while China maintains a cautious neutrality focused on safeguarding its oil imports. The initiative highlights Pakistan's strategic interests in averting economic fallout from the blockade and preventing spillover into its volatile border regions.

Manulife Completes Acquisition of Schroders Indonesia, Combined Assets Under Management Reach Rp177 Trillion

Manulife Wealth & Asset Management has finalised its acquisition of PT Schroder Investment Management Indonesia through PT Manulife Aset Manajemen Indonesia (MAMI), following approvals from the Financial Services Authority. The merger boosts MAMI's assets under management to approximately Rp177 trillion, solidifying its position as Indonesia's largest investment manager and enabling a stronger, more innovative global platform for clients. This strategic combination of Manulife's global capabilities and Schroders' local expertise is expected to enhance investment solutions while ensuring seamless integration and continued service quality for over 2.5 million customers.

President Prabowo Rolls Out the Red Carpet for Japanese Investors

President Prabowo Subianto has outlined key initiatives to bolster investment ties with Japan, including rolling out the red carpet for Japanese investors and emphasizing Indonesia's rapid growth and improved investment climate. At the Indonesia-Japan Business Forum in Tokyo, he highlighted the formation of the sovereign wealth fund Danantara, which has shown promising results with up to 300% asset return increases in its first year, alongside deregulations and a special task force to address investment bottlenecks. The forum resulted in 10 Memorandums of Understanding worth US$23.63 billion, covering clean energy projects, oil and gas exploration, geothermal development, and financial ecosystem strengthening, underscoring a strategic partnership for mutual economic benefits.

WFH Every Friday: ASN Reminded to Maintain Productivity

A member of the House of Representatives Commission II, Muhammad Khozin, has urged civil servants (ASN) to sustain productivity while implementing work-from-home (WFH) policies every Friday, emphasising the need for regular evaluations and consistent oversight by ministries, agencies, and local governments. He highlighted concerns over Friday's selection as the WFH day potentially creating long weekends but advocated using this as an opportunity to improve public transportation and reduce pollution through cross-ministerial coordination. Minister Rini Widyantini of the Ministry of State Apparatus Utilization and Bureaucratic Reform announced ongoing performance evaluations via the eKinerja system, with ASN required to keep their smartphones active for location tracking during work hours.

Child-Friendly Broadcasting and a Home for Children

The Indonesian government's recent enactment of Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on the Governance of Electronic Systems for Child Protection (PP TUNAS) coincides with National Broadcasting Day, highlighting the need for a safer digital environment for children amid concerns over addictive social media platforms. While the regulation restricts access for those under 16 and calls for widespread digital literacy efforts, the role of families in supervising media consumption remains crucial, especially as parents themselves grapple with information overload. Traditional media like television and radio, which meet quality standards and are rigorously monitored by the Indonesian Broadcasting Commission, are positioned as reliable 'homes' for children to access educational content.

Cement Demand Yet to Recover Since Pandemic, SMGR Revenue Declines

PT Semen Indonesia Tbk (SMGR) reported a 0.6% drop in cement sales volume to 37.8 million tonnes in 2025 compared to 38.3 million tonnes in 2024, leading to a 2.6% revenue decline influenced by lower selling prices amid weak demand, particularly for project cement. The company's performance has been hampered by an oversupply in the cement industry, with factory utilisation falling from 63% to 52% since 2019, despite increased production capacity from 111 million to 122 million tonnes. SMGR hopes the government's 3 million housing programme will boost domestic demand by requiring approximately 9 million tonnes of cement, equivalent to 3% of market capacity.

Viral Video of Conventional Taxi with 'B' Plate Fined for Seeking Passengers in Bogor, Dishub Responds

A video of a conventional taxi from Jakarta being fined in Bogor for stopping in a no-parking zone and seeking passengers outside its operational area went viral on social media. Bogor Transportation Agency official Dody Wahyudin explained that the enforcement complies with traffic laws and regulations limiting taxis to door-to-door services within permitted zones, distinguishing them from online taxis. This incident highlights ongoing efforts to regulate urban transport and enforce parking rules against all vehicles in Bogor.

Germany Condemns Attacks on UNIFIL, Urges Israel and Hezbollah to Protect UN Troops

The German government has strongly condemned recent attacks on UNIFIL peacekeepers in Lebanon that resulted in the deaths of three Indonesian personnel, expressing condolences to their families and the Indonesian government. Berlin is urging all conflicting parties, including Israel and Hezbollah, to exercise restraint and ensure the safety of international personnel amid escalating military operations in southern Lebanon. This incident highlights growing international concerns over the protection of UN forces in volatile border areas, underscoring the legal obligations under international law to safeguard peacekeepers.

Bekasi Civil Servants to Work from Home Every Wednesday, Must Activate Phone GPS and Report Daily Performance

The Bekasi City Government has introduced a policy mandating work from home (WFH) for civil servants every Wednesday to promote fuel and energy savings, while ensuring public services remain uninterrupted. Civil servants are required to log daily performance via the e-Kinerja BKN app, keep their smartphone GPS active through Google Maps during work hours, and stay reachable via communication channels. The policy limits WFH participation in public services to 50% and exempts essential sectors like transportation, health, and waste management to maintain optimal service delivery.

Dollar Breaks Through to Rp 17,000: Here Are the Issuers That Gain and Lose

The Indonesian rupiah weakened to Rp 17,000 per US dollar on Wednesday, 1 April 2026, driven by global inflation fears, domestic inflation at 3.48% year-on-year, potential budget deficits, and capital outflows. This depreciation benefits export-oriented companies, particularly in commodities like mining and palm oil, including issuers such as PT Alamtri Resources Indonesia (ADRO), PT Bayan Resources (BYAN), and PT Medco Energi Internasional Tbk (MEDC), due to higher dollar revenues. Conversely, import-dependent firms and those with dollar-denominated debts face increased costs and burdens, highlighting the dual impact on corporate balance sheets.

9 Business Sectors Exempted from the Weekly One-Day Work from Home Directive

The Indonesian government has issued a directive for work from home (WFH) one day per week to conserve energy amid the Middle East conflict, but nine vital business sectors are exempted to ensure operational continuity. These sectors include healthcare, energy, infrastructure, retail, manufacturing, services, food and beverage, transportation and logistics, and finance. The implementation details are left to individual companies, highlighting a balance between energy savings and essential service provision.

BPS: February Rice Production Rises 27.41%, March NTP Falls Slightly

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reported a significant 27.41% increase in rice production for February 2026, reaching 5.05 million tons of dry-milled unhulled rice, driven by a 23.62% expansion in harvested area to 0.94 million hectares. However, the Farmers' Exchange Rate (NTP) saw a slight decline in March 2026 due to faster-rising input prices compared to output prices. While rice prices rose across production levels, corn production fell by 4.91%, highlighting mixed performance in key agricultural sectors amid ongoing efforts to bolster food security.

Note! These Vehicles Are Allowed to Refuel 200 Litres of Subsidised Fuel per Day

The Indonesian government has introduced regulations to control the distribution of subsidised fuels like Solar and Pertalite, limiting private vehicles to 50 litres per day while allowing public transport vehicles higher quotas of up to 80 litres for four-wheeled vehicles and 200 litres for six-wheeled or larger ones. Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto and Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia emphasised the use of the MyPertamina barcode system for reasonable purchases, aiming to ensure efficient fuel use amid global dynamics. The policy, issued by the Oil and Gas Downstream Regulatory Agency (BPH Migas), takes effect from 1 April 2026 and covers both personal and public transport, including emergency services vehicles.

Vice Admiral Edwin Officially Assumes Role as Deputy Chief of Naval Staff

Vice Admiral Edwin has officially taken over as Deputy Chief of Naval Staff (Wakasal) from Vice Admiral Erwin Aldedharma in a ceremony led by Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Ali at the Navy Headquarters in East Jakarta. The handover included traditions of farewell and welcome attended by all personnel, while Admiral Erwin will replace Edwin as Deputy Governor of the National Defence Institute (Lemhannas). This leadership transition aims to strengthen organisational solidarity, enhance task effectiveness, and ensure continuity of ongoing programmes amid increasingly complex challenges for the Indonesian Navy.

Rejecting Low Severance Pay, Sleman Garment Factory Workers Protest at Regent's Office

Workers from PT Mataram Tunggal Garment in Sleman demonstrated against the company's proposed severance pay of 0.5 times the legal requirement, demanding the full two times as mandated by law, following layoffs triggered by a factory fire in May 2025. The protests involved a march to the regent's office, where they met with local officials including the Regent of Sleman, who pledged to mediate with the company management to find a fair solution. This action highlights ongoing labour disputes in Indonesia's garment sector, underscoring tensions between worker rights and company financial claims amid continued operations post-disaster.

Russia open to oil sales to Pertamina amid Strait of Hormuz tensions

Russia has expressed openness to selling oil to Indonesia's Pertamina amid escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, caused by recent US-Israel strikes on Iran and subsequent retaliations, which have disrupted global oil shipments and driven up fuel prices. Russian embassy official Tolchenov stated that Moscow is prepared to discuss tailored supply deals if approached, emphasizing flexibility and availability to any buyer willing to cooperate. Indonesia's Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia affirmed the government's strategy to diversify imports, including from Russia, to ensure stable and competitively priced energy supplies while mitigating domestic economic impacts.

Understanding Handala: The Iranian Hacking Group That Successfully Exposed FBI Director's Personal Data

The Iranian-affiliated hacking group Handala has breached the personal email account of FBI Director Kash Patel, publishing over 300 emails from 2010-2019 and personal photos, including him smoking a cigar and posing with wine. While the FBI states the data is historical and contains no classified information, security experts believe this is part of Iran's cyber strategy to humiliate US officials. This incident joins a history of high-profile US breaches, such as those involving John Podesta and John Brennan, highlighting ongoing vulnerabilities in personal accounts of government leaders.

Israel Bombs Iranian Distillation Facility, Trump Furious, Arabs Lose $194 Billion

Israel's ongoing military operations against Iran, including strikes on distillation facilities and nuclear-related infrastructure, have escalated tensions, with Prime Minister Netanyahu vowing to continue until the regime collapses internally. Iran's parliament has approved tolls and bans on ships from the US, Israel, and sanctioning nations passing through the Strait of Hormuz, causing a 95% drop in maritime traffic and severely disrupting global oil supplies that previously accounted for 20% of the world's needs. Former US President Donald Trump's threats to destroy Iran's vital infrastructure and urging other nations to secure their own energy supplies have heightened fears of a broader energy and economic crisis, with significant losses projected for Arab economies at $194 billion.

Rubbish from Kramat Jati TPS overflows into river, residents fear flooding

Residents near Pasar Induk Kramat Jati in East Jakarta are concerned about flooding risks after the boundary wall of the temporary waste collection site collapsed, allowing piles of rubbish to spill into a nearby river and clog drainage channels. Local workers report that ongoing cleaning efforts are undermined by the continuous flow of waste, exacerbating environmental issues like foul odours and pollution in community areas used by children. The Jakarta Timur Environmental Office has deployed 13 trucks for waste removal, committing to sustained efforts until the site is fully cleared, highlighting broader challenges in urban waste management and public infrastructure maintenance.