Archive: 1 April 2026
Showing 1,301-1,350 of 1,900 articles
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:26 WIB
Inflation Reaches 0.41% in March 2026 Due to Eid Celebrations
Indonesia's inflation rate for March 2026 was recorded at 0.41% month-on-month, lower than the 1.65% seen in the previous year, primarily driven by the food, beverages, and tobacco category amid Eid al-Fitr festivities. Key contributors included fresh fish, chicken meat, rice, eggs, chillies, cooking oil, and beef, while air transport fares and gold jewellery provided deflationary pressures. Regionally, 34 provinces experienced inflation, with Papua Pegunungan seeing the highest rate at 2.57%, highlighting the seasonal impact of holidays on economic pressures.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:26 WIB
Deputy Transport Minister Appreciates Police Handling of Eid Exodus and Return Flows in 2026
Deputy Minister of Transportation Suntana has commended the Indonesian National Police's Traffic Corps for their effective management of the 2026 Eid al-Fitr travel period, resulting in average vehicle speeds of 80 km/h and smooth traffic flow through one-way systems and contraflow measures. Road accidents decreased by 6.3%, fatalities by 31.9%, and serious injuries by 13.8% compared to the previous year, underscoring the success of prioritised safety policies. The ministry expressed gratitude to the TNI, Police, local governments, and other stakeholders for ensuring a safe and efficient journey for millions of travellers.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:26 WIB
Indonesia to boost renewable energy investment to shield economy
Indonesia's Investment and Downstreaming Minister Rosan Roeslani has announced plans to accelerate policies and investments in renewable energy sources like geothermal, solar, and hydro to protect the economy from external pressures. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto highlighted the country's strong economic fundamentals and introduced measures such as mandatory work-from-home for state workers on Fridays to enhance energy efficiency and reduce fuel consumption. Additionally, the government will implement the B50 biodiesel policy from July 1, blending 50 percent petroleum diesel with palm oil-based biofuel to bolster energy resilience and cut subsidy spending.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:26 WIB
Andrie Yunus Forgives the Acid Thrower, But the Masterminds Must Be Uncovered
Andrie Yunus, Deputy Coordinator of KontraS, has expressed forgiveness towards those involved in the acid attack against him, including the direct perpetrator, as shared by fellow activists visiting him in hospital. However, he emphasised the need to demand full accountability from all actors, both on the ground and intellectual masterminds, to uphold justice and humanity. Activists are focusing on supporting his recovery by avoiding discussions of the case during visits, amid concerns over threats to supporters following his activism against the TNI Bill.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:26 WIB
DPAA regularly meets families of missing soldiers to provide support
The US Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) routinely visits families of missing US Department of Defense personnel to update them on cases and offer psychological support amid their grief. In a recent gathering of around 400 families, the agency provided the latest information and facilitated connections among relatives, highlighting the ongoing emotional toll of unresolved disappearances from past conflicts. A joint US-Indonesian investigation team in Morotai conducted interviews, archaeological surveys, and local engagements to locate potential recovery sites for missing American service members, as part of DPAA's global mission.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:24 WIB
Deputy Chair of DPR Commission VI Urges Public Not to Panic Buy: Indonesia's Fuel Stock is Very Secure
Andre Rosiade, Deputy Chair of DPR Commission VI, has reassured the public not to engage in panic buying of fuel, highlighting the government's firm decision under President Prabowo to maintain prices for both subsidised and non-subsidised fuels starting 1 April. He contrasted this with 85 countries worldwide and several Southeast Asian neighbours that have raised fuel prices amid Middle East conflicts. Rosiade emphasised the ample and secure fuel stocks in Indonesia, supported by new oil sources, urging citizens to remain calm.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:24 WIB
Waingapu shrimp pond targeted to start operations next year
The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) aims to have the integrated shrimp farming area in Waingapu, East Nusa Tenggara, operational by 2027, with some units expected to begin production as early as next year. Designed with the best standards for sustainability, the project on 2,150 hectares is projected to yield 52,000 tonnes of shrimp annually, requiring an investment of US$500 million through foreign loans and government funding. This initiative exemplifies collaboration between central and local governments, the private sector, and local communities to boost the marine economy.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:23 WIB
February 2026 Trade Balance Surplus Reaches USD 1.27 Billion
Indonesia recorded a trade surplus of USD 1.27 billion in February 2026, driven primarily by a USD 2.19 billion surplus in non-oil and gas commodities such as animal and vegetable fats and oils, minerals, and iron and steel, despite a USD 0.92 billion deficit in oil and gas. Exports rose by 1.01% to USD 22.17 billion, while imports increased by 10.85% to USD 20.89 billion compared to the previous year, marking the 70th consecutive month of surplus since May 2020. Cumulatively for January-February 2026, the surplus stood at USD 2.23 billion, with major surpluses from the US, India, and the Philippines, offset by deficits with China, Australia, and Singapore.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:23 WIB
Amsal's Testimony in Parliament Leads to Examination of Karo District Prosecutor's Head
Amsal Sitepu, a videographer accused of corruption in a village fund case in Karo, has alleged intimidation by prosecutors, including receiving a box of brownies with a message to silence his social media activity. In response, the North Sumatra High Prosecutor's Office is investigating two officials from the Karo District Prosecutor's Office, focusing on potential attempts to muzzle the defendant outside the main legal proceedings. This development highlights concerns over prosecutorial misconduct and the protection of free speech for young creatives in Indonesia.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:22 WIB
KPK Examines Lippo Cikarang Legal Staff Regarding Bekasi Regent's House Purchase
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned Ruri, a legal staff member from Lippo Cikarang, as part of an ongoing bribery investigation involving suspended Bekasi Regent Ade Kuswara Kunang (ADK). The examination focuses on ADK's purchase of a house, which forms part of the KPK's asset tracing efforts to support prosecution and eventual recovery of corruption proceeds. Three suspects have been named in the case, including ADK, his father HM Kunang, and private individual Sarjan, accused of receiving a total of Rp 9.5 billion in down payments for a 2026 project.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:22 WIB
80 MBG Kitchens in Central Lombok Closed, Here's the Reason
The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has temporarily suspended operations at 80 kitchens under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme in Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, due to their failure to meet basic standards such as wastewater treatment installations (IPAL) and Sanitation Hygiene Certificates (SHLS). This action affects nearly half of the 168 service units in the area, with a two-week grace period granted for partners to rectify the issues and provide evidence for reactivation. The suspensions, part of a broader enforcement across NTB impacting 302 units, underscore BGN's commitment to ensuring food safety and optimal programme delivery for beneficiaries, particularly children.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:22 WIB
BPS Reports Trade Surplus for 70 Consecutive Months
Indonesia's trade balance recorded a surplus for the 70th consecutive month in February 2026, amounting to US$1.27 billion, driven primarily by non-oil and gas exports. Cumulatively from January to February 2026, the surplus reached US$2.23 billion, supported by strong performances in commodities such as animal and vegetable fats, mineral fuels, iron and steel, nickel products, and footwear, despite a deficit in the oil and gas sector. Key export markets remained China, the United States, and India, contributing nearly 44% of non-oil and gas exports, while imports rose by 14.44% year-on-year.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:22 WIB
ORI Reminds Ministry of Manpower to Ensure THR Payments Are Fully Settled on Time Before 2 April
The Ombudsman of the Republic of Indonesia (ORI) has urged the Ministry of Manpower and local governments to uphold legal obligations in ensuring workers' Holiday Allowance (THR) rights are fully and timely fulfilled, amid ongoing issues identified in monitoring across 11 provinces in March 2026. Key problems include weak regulatory instruments, lack of synchronisation between labour and licensing regulations, absence of standard operating procedures, limited enforcement powers for inspectors, and inefficiencies in complaint management systems. ORI calls for comprehensive reforms, including policy improvements, enhanced cross-ministerial sanctions, integrated THR complaint systems, and increased funding for labour oversight to promote administrative justice and fair business practices for workers.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:22 WIB
Amsal Sitepu Acquitted of Corruption Charges in Village Profile Video Project
The Medan District Court has acquitted Amsal Sitepu, director of CV Promiseland, of all corruption charges related to a project producing village profile videos in North Sumatra's Karo Regency, ruling that the evidence failed to prove any state losses or unlawful acts. The decision overturns the prosecutors' demands for a two-year prison sentence over alleged financial losses exceeding Rp202 million, ordering the immediate release of Sitepu and the restoration of his rights. Prosecutors may review the verdict for potential appeals, highlighting ongoing tensions in Indonesia's anti-corruption enforcement.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:20 WIB
March 2026 IHK Controlled at 0.41 Percent, Petrol and Eid Travel Costs Contribute to Inflation
Indonesia's inflation rate for March 2026 remained controlled at 0.41 percent month-on-month, despite the Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr period, marking a lower figure than the 1.65 percent recorded in the same month the previous year and bucking the historical trend of rises during this festive season. Key drivers included price increases in food items like rice, chicken meat, eggs, and cayenne peppers, as well as petrol and intercity transport fares due to heightened mobility during Eid travels, though air transport fares provided a deflating effect. Year-to-date inflation stood at 0.94 percent, with annual inflation at 3.48 percent, influenced by a low base effect from 2025's electricity tariff discounts, highlighting the economy's resilience amid seasonal consumption pressures.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:20 WIB
Awaiting the Impact of WFH Every Friday to Curb Fuel Consumption
The Indonesian government has introduced a policy mandating work-from-home (WFH) for civil servants every Friday starting April 2026, with the private sector encouraged to follow, aiming to save trillions of rupiah in fuel costs amid global energy uncertainties. This measure, inspired by post-COVID practices and international responses to oil supply threats, excludes essential sectors like healthcare and finance, and is projected to reduce national fuel compensation by Rp 6.2 trillion and public spending by Rp 59 trillion. Lawmakers express mixed views, emphasising the need for regular evaluations to ensure productivity and actual savings in fuel consumption and mobility.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:20 WIB
Manulife (MAMI) Officially Acquires Schroders Indonesia, Becoming an Investment Management Giant
PT Manulife Aset Manajemen Indonesia (MAMI) has officially acquired PT Schroder Investment Management Indonesia following approval from the Financial Services Authority (OJK), marking a significant expansion in the Indonesian asset management sector. The acquisition, announced on 1 April 2026, will combine MAMI's strong market position with Schroders' local expertise and global insights, enhancing innovation and offering broader investment solutions to clients. This move strengthens MAMI's leadership as one of Indonesia's largest investment managers, promising greater scale and long-term value for investors amid evolving market dynamics.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:20 WIB
Bali Provincial Government Begins Banning Organic Waste from Entering Suwung Landfill
The Bali Provincial Government has officially started prohibiting the disposal of organic waste at the Suwung Final Disposal Site (TPA) effective from 1 April 2026, in line with directives from the Minister of Environment to adjust operations and restrict entry to inorganic waste and residue only. This measure addresses the high proportion of organic waste, which constitutes 65% of Bali's total waste and poses environmental risks such as methane emissions and leachate pollution. The policy promotes source-based waste management at household and community levels, encouraging simple processing methods to produce compost, thereby supporting sustainable practices, circular economy principles, and reducing the landfill's burden through initiatives like TPS3R units and distributed composting facilities.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:19 WIB
Rubbish Causes Unloading at Kramat Jati to Take 5 Hours, Driver: Longer than Jakarta-Bandung Trip
Long queues of trucks at Pasar Induk Kramat Jati in East Jakarta have extended unloading times to over five hours due to road access being narrowed by rubbish piles, far exceeding normal durations and the travel time from Bandung to Jakarta. Drivers report increased operational costs from prolonged parking fees, often passed on to traders, while the Jakarta Environment Agency began rubbish removal on Wednesday, though significant accumulations persist following restrictions at the Bantargebang integrated waste site. This disruption not only affects environmental cleanliness but also hampers logistics distribution at one of Jakarta's largest food supply centres, contradicting recent claims by Governor Pramono Anung that rubbish issues had been resolved.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:18 WIB
KKP Quality Agency Ensures Fishery Products Meet Safety Standards
The KKP Quality Agency (BPPMHKP) is committed to guaranteeing the safety and export standards of fishery products through quality control from upstream to downstream processes. Aquaculture farmers, like catfish breeder Sujarwanto, benefit from the free and straightforward CBIB certification, which ensures water quality and eases marketing and export compliance, with validity for four years under periodic surveillance. For capture fisheries, inspectors check hygiene, cold chain maintenance, and operational standards at docks to preserve fish freshness, as demonstrated by fishermen's use of cool boxes and clean practices.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:18 WIB
Defence Ministry: No Plans Yet to Withdraw TNI Troops from Lebanon
The Indonesian Ministry of Defence has stated that there are currently no plans to withdraw Indonesian National Army (TNI) troops from the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) peacekeeping mission, amid recent deadly attacks that killed three soldiers and injured five others. Officials emphasise ongoing evaluations of the situation in coordination with the UN, prioritising personnel safety, while rejecting unilateral decisions in favour of multilateral operations. This stance comes in response to calls from figures like MPR Chairman Ahmad Muzani for withdrawal if safety cannot be guaranteed, highlighting the risks and Indonesia's commitment to global peacekeeping under UN mandates.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:17 WIB
Rupiah at Rp17,000/USD: Causes and Analysis of the Rupiah's Decline
The Indonesian rupiah has weakened to a historic low of Rp17,020 per US dollar, driven by a combination of external geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, domestic fiscal concerns over subsidised fuel prices, and downgrades in the country's credit outlook by global rating agencies. This depreciation, part of a longer trend since early 2025, raises worries about increased government spending on energy subsidies and a potential widening of the budget deficit amid high global oil prices. Analysts highlight selling pressure from foreign investors in Indonesian bonds, underscoring the vulnerability of emerging markets like Indonesia to global uncertainties.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:17 WIB
Diaspora in Korea Enthusiastically Welcome Prabowo, Willing to Wait from Morning to Meet Him in Person
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto's arrival in Seoul, South Korea, was met with great enthusiasm by the Indonesian diaspora, including long-term resident Rima, who waited from morning to greet him despite schedule changes. As a supporter from Prabowo's campaign team in Korea nine years ago, Rima praised his authority, care for Indonesians abroad, and progressive programmes, expressing pride in shaking his hand and hoping for Indonesia's advancement under his leadership. This visit follows Prabowo's trip to Japan and includes a meeting with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, highlighting the president's international outreach and diaspora engagement.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:17 WIB
Fuel Prices Remain Unchanged, Public Reminded to Use Energy Wisely
The Indonesian government has decided to keep Pertamina's fuel prices stable as of 1 April 2026, a move praised by PAN faction leader Putri Zulkifli Hasan for protecting consumer purchasing power amid global economic pressures. Despite sufficient national fuel stocks, she emphasised the need for continued energy conservation efforts and warned against wasteful consumption influenced by geopolitical dynamics. The PAN faction is pushing for enhanced supervision of fuel distribution to prevent hoarding or misuse, while advocating for accelerated energy transitions to bolster national energy independence.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:16 WIB
Besides WFH Appeal, Government Requests Private Offices to Implement Energy-Saving Operations
The Indonesian government has urged private sector employees to adopt work-from-home (WFH) arrangements and implement energy-saving measures at workplaces to optimise energy use amid broader conservation efforts. Minister of Manpower Yassierli outlined specific actions, including adopting energy-efficient technologies, fostering a culture of prudent energy consumption, and monitoring usage through operational policies, while encouraging workers and unions to design and promote innovative, adaptive practices. Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto noted that WFH for private employees will be tailored to each business sector's needs, following guidelines in a ministerial circular, building on the existing Friday WFH policy for civil servants.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:16 WIB
Sahroni Welcomes Acquittal of Amsal Sitepu: Law Enforcement Initially Lacked Awareness of the Creative Industry
Deputy Chairman of Commission III of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Ahmad Sahroni, has praised the acquittal of videographer Amsal Christy Sitepu in a case alleging budget inflation for village profile videos in Karo Regency. He noted that while law enforcement authorities initially failed to grasp the nuances of the creative industry, they eventually heeded public input, leading to a fair outcome. Sahroni emphasised the need for ongoing dialogue between enforcers and the public, particularly in cases involving creative sectors, to ensure justice and openness to societal feedback.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:16 WIB
Legislator Views Avenged Sevenfold Concert as Having Economic Impact
A Jakarta legislator has praised the upcoming Avenged Sevenfold concert at Jakarta International Stadium as a key step towards positioning the city as a prime destination for international music tours, highlighting its potential to boost the creative economy through event organisation, production, and local jobs. The event is expected to drive broader economic benefits, including increased hotel occupancy, restaurant revenues, and local tax income, while enhancing Jakarta's global image and infrastructure readiness. Scheduled for 10 October 2026, the concert underscores Indonesia's maturing concert industry and the role of strategic advocacy in attracting major international acts.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:16 WIB
RSCM Reveals Latest Condition of KontraS Activist Andrie Yunus as Stable
RSUP Nasional Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo (RSCM) has reported that the psychological condition of KontraS activist Andrie Yunus remains stable despite severe trauma, with ongoing multidisciplinary medical support ensuring optimal recovery. Physical wounds are improving, with most areas healing through skin grafts, though further procedures are planned for dead skin removal and a third eye surgery on the right eye revealed corneal thinning and leakage, necessitating protective stitching for about four months. This update underscores RSCM's commitment to comprehensive care for the activist, highlighting broader issues of violence against human rights defenders in Indonesia.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:15 WIB
TNI Completes Armco Bridge in Central Tapanuli to Ease Resident Access
The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has completed the reconstruction of an Armco bridge in Tukka subdistrict, Central Tapanuli regency, North Sumatra, following severe damage from flash floods. The bridge, built by a joint team using various equipment, now allows passage for both two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles, restoring vital connectivity in the area. This swift response is expected to normalise mobility and support economic activities for local residents.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:14 WIB
Empty Land in Kerobokan Kelod Becomes Illegal Dump Site, Rubbish Piles Up
An empty plot of land in Kerobokan Kelod, Bali, has turned into an illegal rubbish dump, with piles of plastic, food waste, and construction debris spilling onto the roadside, severely impacting the area's aesthetics frequented by foreign tourists. Local authorities, including the village head I Made Wistawan, are investigating the foreign-owned landowner and planning to install barriers and CCTV to deter illegal dumping, especially as the nearby Suwung landfill limits organic waste intake. The Badung Environmental and Cleanliness Service has already deployed trucks to remove the non-organic waste, aiming to prevent recurrence through stricter monitoring.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:13 WIB
Acid Terror Against Andrie Yunus and the Grim Shadow of Military Justice
The Jakarta Metropolitan Police have handed over the investigation of the acid attack on Andrie Yunus, Deputy Coordinator of KontraS, to the TNI Military Police Centre due to the involvement of military personnel, with four TNI members already designated as suspects and detained. Advocacy groups and legal experts criticise this transfer, arguing that the case should be tried in a general court rather than a military one, as it involves a civilian victim and no military context, highlighting flaws in current laws that limit such cases to military jurisdiction. They call for revisions to the Military Judiciary Law or the issuance of an emergency regulation to ensure transparency, accountability, and protection for civilians.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:12 WIB
Official! Labour Minister Announces WFH Once a Week for Private, SOE, and Regional SOE Employees
Indonesia's Minister of Manpower, Yassierli, has officially announced a policy requiring private companies, state-owned enterprises (SOEs), and regional state-owned enterprises (regional SOEs) to implement work-from-home (WFH) arrangements for employees once a week. This initiative, outlined in a circular on WFH and workplace energy optimisation, ensures that wages, other rights, and annual leave remain unaffected, with implementation details left to individual companies. The policy aims to promote flexible working while maintaining productivity and employee benefits amid broader efforts to optimise energy use.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:12 WIB
List of Business Sectors Exempted from the One-Day-Per-Week WFH Recommendation
Indonesia's Minister of Manpower, Yassierli, has announced a recommendation for private sector workers, SOEs, and regional SOEs to work from home one day per week, but several essential sectors are exempted to ensure uninterrupted operations. Exempted sectors include health services, energy, infrastructure, retail, manufacturing, hospitality, food and beverage, transportation, logistics, and finance, as these require physical presence for functionality. Companies are responsible for implementing the WFH policy technically, highlighting the government's balance between workforce flexibility and critical service continuity.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:10 WIB
After Claiming It's Clean, Pramono Now Admits Rubbish Still Piling Up in Jakarta
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has admitted that rubbish accumulation in several parts of the capital remains unresolved, contradicting his previous claim that the issue had been fully addressed. He noted reductions in temporary disposal sites but highlighted ongoing challenges in areas like Kramat Jati, where additional trucks have been deployed, as well as in East, West, and North Jakarta, exacerbated by post-Eid holidays and a landslide at Bantargebang. Residents and officials report persistent piles up to three metres high, causing odour and environmental issues, underscoring the strain on the city's waste management infrastructure.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:10 WIB
Jambi's Kerinci Mountain Slope Coffee Penetrates Malaysian Market
Indonesian coffee from the slopes of Mount Kerinci in Jambi has successfully entered the Malaysian market through a collaborative effort involving the Indonesian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, local cooperatives, and Malaysian partners like Lewisgene Roasters and Isetan Kuala Lumpur. This expansion adds to the variety of Indonesian coffees already popular in Malaysia, such as Toraja, Gayo, Mandheling, and Lampung varieties, highlighting the high demand for Indonesia's rich coffee flavours among Malaysian consumers. The initiative, marked by an event at Isetan KLCC from 30 March to 8 April 2026, plans to ship at least two containers monthly, boosting economic ties and creative promotions between the two nations.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:10 WIB
KPAI Demands Arrest of Man Offering 'Oral Sex Services': Risk of Seeking New Victims
The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has urged police to immediately arrest and detain IK, a madrasah teacher in Depok, West Java, who went viral for distributing flyers advertising oral sex services in South Tangerang, Banten, citing the danger of him repeating the offence and targeting new victims, including children, while potentially spreading deadly diseases. KPAI highlighted systemic failures in monitoring educators with histories of misconduct and referenced 2025 data showing that 57.65% of 641 education-related violence cases were sexual in nature, with 46% involving power imbalances between teachers and students. The commission called for stricter vetting of teachers, improved confidential reporting mechanisms in schools, and evaluations to prevent such predators from exploiting educational environments.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:09 WIB
Processing Industry Boosts Exports, Indonesia's Trade Surplus Remains Maintained
Indonesia's processing industry has demonstrated a strong role in supporting exports at the start of 2026, contributing to a maintained trade surplus amid global uncertainties. The Central Statistics Agency reported a surplus of US$2.23 billion for January-February 2026, driven by a 6.69% year-on-year increase in processing sector exports reaching US$37.06 billion, highlighting a shift towards higher-value products like iron, steel, nickel derivatives, and electrical machinery. While non-oil and gas sectors recorded a surplus of US$5.42 billion, offsetting a US$3.19 billion oil and gas deficit, imports rose 14.44% to US$42.09 billion, underscoring the importance of industrialisation for sustainable economic value addition.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:08 WIB
Trade Surplus Continues, but Imports Surge 14 Percent
Indonesia's trade balance recorded a surplus of $2.23 billion in January-February 2026, extending a positive trend since May 2020, primarily driven by a $5.42 billion surplus in non-oil and gas sectors despite a $3.19 billion deficit in oil and gas. While exports grew moderately by 2.19% year-on-year, imports surged by 14.44% to $42.09 billion, led by a 17.49% increase in non-oil and gas imports and a sharp 34.44% rise in capital goods, signalling robust domestic production but potential future pressures on the trade balance. Key export destinations include China, the US, and India, while China dominates imports, with major non-oil exports encompassing vegetable oils, mineral fuels, iron and steel, nickel products, and footwear amid global economic uncertainties.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:08 WIB
Deputy Minister of Transportation: 147 Million People Travel During Eid al-Fitr 2026
Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Transportation, Suntana, reported that 147 million people undertook journeys between 13 and 25 March 2026, marking a 2.5% increase over survey predictions and highlighting a surge in public transport usage during the Eid al-Fitr period. Vehicle movements out of the Jabodetabek area rose by 4% to 2.9 million, with significant portions heading to East and Central Java, while inbound traffic slightly declined. On-time performance improved across various transport modes, aided by weather mitigation efforts from the BMKG, underscoring the government's success in ensuring smooth and safe holiday travel.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:08 WIB
Pertamina Optimises Fleet of Ships to Ensure Smooth Fuel Distribution
Pertamina Patra Niaga is optimising its fleet of 345 ships, both owned and chartered, to maintain the reliability of national energy distribution across Indonesia, covering fuels like BBM, LPG, and Avtur. This effort addresses rising demand due to increased societal mobility and economic activity, while closely monitoring global geopolitical dynamics, particularly in the Middle East. The company is coordinating with the government and stakeholders to uphold national energy security.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:07 WIB
House Commission VI Appreciates No Fuel Price Increase: Stocks Secure, Public Should Not Worry
Indonesia's House Commission VI has praised the government's decision to maintain fuel prices despite increases in 85 countries worldwide and several Southeast Asian neighbours, highlighting President Prabowo Subianto's readiness to address global geopolitical challenges. The commission assured the public that fuel stocks are secure, urging citizens not to panic or queue at petrol stations. Coordinating with Pertamina and following presidential directives, the policy prioritises public interests, with no adjustments planned for subsidised or non-subsidised fuels.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:06 WIB
Oil and Gas Prices in Europe Rise Up to 70 Percent Since Middle East Conflict
EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen has reported that gas prices in the European Union have surged by up to 70 percent and oil prices by 60 percent since the onset of the Middle East conflict. The escalation, particularly around Iran leading to a de facto blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, has disrupted key export routes for oil and liquefied natural gas from Persian Gulf nations. This has resulted in an additional €14 billion (approximately Rp273 trillion) in fossil fuel import costs for the EU over the past 30 days, highlighting the vulnerability of global energy markets to regional instability.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:05 WIB
Indonesia Holds Firm! US Fuel Prices Soar to Rp17,980 per Litre
Fuel prices in the United States have surged above US$4 per gallon, equivalent to approximately Rp17,980 per litre, due to escalating conflicts involving Israel and Iran disrupting global oil supplies via the Strait of Hormuz. In contrast, Indonesia's government has decided to maintain both subsidised and non-subsidised fuel prices unchanged as of 1 April 2026, aiming to shield lower-income households from global economic pressures. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia emphasised ongoing discussions with Pertamina and private fuel station operators, ensuring no price hikes for now.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:04 WIB
House Commission III Opens Option to Form Special Committee on Acid Attack Against KontraS Activist Andrie Yunus
Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III is considering forming a special committee to investigate the acid attack on KontraS activist Andrie Yunus, with discussions to follow in a plenary meeting. Commission Chairman Habiburokhman has committed to overseeing the enforcement of law and justice in the case, potentially involving cross-sectoral oversight including other commissions like I and XIII due to possible TNI involvement. Advocacy groups such as YLBHI urge the formation of such a committee or working group to uncover intellectual actors and ensure serious intelligence audits to prevent future incidents.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:03 WIB
Unlike the Central Government, Bekasi City Implements WFH for Civil Servants Every Wednesday
The Bekasi City Government has introduced a policy mandating work from home (WFH) for civil servants every Wednesday to promote fuel savings and energy efficiency, diverging from central government directives. Civil servants must log their daily performance via an app, keep GPS active, and remain reachable, with full WFH implementation except for public service units limited to 50%. This local initiative highlights tensions between regional autonomy and national policy uniformity in Indonesia's unitary state framework.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:03 WIB
PHRI Banyumas hopes hotel occupancy unaffected by budget efficiency measures
The Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) in Banyumas, Central Java, is concerned that the government's latest budget efficiency policies could further hinder the recovery of the local hospitality sector, which is still reeling from the COVID-19 pandemic and previous austerity measures. Government activities have been a key driver of hotel occupancy, and new restrictions including work-from-home mandates for civil servants and private workers threaten to reduce meetings and events held at hotels. Despite some boosts from events like Eid and Ramadan iftar programmes, average occupancy remains around 60%, well below expectations, prompting calls for strategic support to sustain operations and employment in the industry.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:03 WIB
"Deep State" in the Prabowo Government
Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has acknowledged the existence of a "deep state" within his ministry, confirming President Prabowo Subianto's concerns about systemic resistance from senior bureaucrats, including echelon I officials, who operate independently of political authority. This hidden network, comprising elements like senior civil servants, influences policy through subtle sabotage such as delaying approvals, withholding data, and redirecting budgets to favoured projects, posing a significant challenge to the government's reform agenda. With the ministry's 2026 budget surging to Rp118.5 trillion, these entrenched interests threaten efficient implementation and accountability in one of Indonesia's largest spending departments.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:02 WIB
Pram Expresses Gratitude for ASN WFH Policy Implemented Every Friday
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has expressed relief that the work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN) is set for Fridays, avoiding conflict with the provincial mandate for public transport use on Wednesdays. He affirmed the Jakarta Provincial Government's commitment to follow the central government's decision, planning a meeting to detail implementation, including a ban on private vehicle use during WFH days. Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto explained the Friday choice due to lighter workloads and alignment with post-pandemic digital work practices in ministries, while ensuring public services remain unaffected.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:02 WIB
Government Urges Private Sector to Implement WFH One Day Per Week
The Indonesian government has urged private companies to allow employees to work from home (WFH) for one day per week, without reducing annual leave or monthly salaries, as announced by Minister of Manpower Yassierli. This policy aligns with the existing WFH arrangement for civil servants every Friday and will be tailored to the characteristics and needs of each business sector, starting from 1 April 2026. Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto highlighted that the initiative also promotes energy efficiency in workplaces, regulated through a ministerial circular.
Wed, 01 Apr 2026, 12:02 WIB
Infrastructure Outside Java: Obstacles to the National EV Transition
President Prabowo Subianto has pledged to aggressively promote electric vehicle adoption across Indonesia, as announced during his speech at the Japan-Indonesia Business Forum in Tokyo. However, this initiative faces significant challenges, particularly in infrastructure development outside Java, which could hinder the nationwide transition to EVs. Moreover, the shift risks displacing millions in the informal economy, including small workshops, traditional mechanics, and distributors of conventional internal combustion engine parts, potentially leading to widespread job losses.