Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 April 2026

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Tradition of Maintaining Ties Preserved: Semarang Mayor Visits Predecessors

Semarang Mayor Agustina Wilujeng led a delegation to visit former mayors Sukawi Sutarip, Soemarmo HS, and Hendrar Prihadi, as well as paying respects at the grave of the late Sutrisno Suharto, emphasising the importance of sustaining brotherhood and absorbing insights from past leaders to continue city development. She highlighted the need for continuity in building programmes, perfecting existing achievements for public welfare, and promoting energy efficiency measures like public transport and work-from-anywhere policies to reduce fuel consumption among civil servants. The visits were warmly received, with former Mayor Soemarmo praising the ongoing tradition of silaturahmi as a mark of respect to predecessors, underscoring the role of such interactions in preserving Semarang's governance legacy.

List of 21 Conditions Not Covered by BPJS Kesehatan as of April 2026

The Indonesian government's Presidential Regulation No. 82 of 2018 outlines 21 categories of diseases and medical services excluded from coverage under the BPJS Kesehatan national health insurance programme, aimed at providing affordable healthcare to the public. These exclusions include epidemic diseases, cosmetic procedures, self-inflicted injuries, treatments for infertility, and services provided abroad or in non-partner facilities, among others, to ensure resources are focused on essential care. Understanding these limitations is crucial for participants to avoid misunderstandings and access benefits correctly.

Attorney General's Office Raids Port Offices in Palangkaraya and Banjarmasin

The Attorney General's Office (AGO) conducted raids on the Port Authority and Harbour Master Offices (KSOP) in Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan, and Palangkaraya, Central Kalimantan, as part of an investigation into illegal mining corruption involving tycoon Samin Tan. During the searches, investigators seized shipping documents and electronic evidence related to vessels allegedly used to export illegally mined coal by PT Asmin Koalindo Tuhup (AKT) from 2017 to 2025, despite the company's mining permit being revoked in 2017. This case highlights ongoing issues with illegal coal mining operations facilitated by alleged collusion with state officials, underscoring the need for stronger enforcement in Indonesia's mining sector.

KPK Advances Corruption Investigation into Hajj Quota, New Clusters to Be Announced Soon

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is expanding its investigation into alleged corruption in the organisation and distribution of Hajj quotas by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, identifying new clusters beyond the four existing suspects. Investigators are focusing on the roles of officials, private parties, and Hajj travel associations, while tracing fund flows and the lobbying processes surrounding the discretionary policy for the additional 20,000 seats. This case highlights significant irregularities in quota allocation, deviating from regulations and enabling transactional practices, underscoring ongoing efforts to combat high-level corruption in Indonesia.

Ministry of Trade: Supply Surplus Causes Cocoa Bean Prices to Fall

Indonesia's Ministry of Trade has reported a significant decline in the reference price for cocoa beans in April 2026, dropping 21.17% to $3,190.63 per MT due to increased supply from major producers not matched by rising demand, which also led to a 22.46% fall in the Export Benchmark Price to $2,886 per MT. While export duties and levies for cocoa remain at 5%, prices for pine resin have risen slightly, and wood product export benchmarks show mixed changes, highlighting ongoing volatility in key commodity markets.

Comprehensive Explanation from Bahlil on Fuel Stocks and Prices in Indonesia

Indonesia's Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, has assured that national fuel reserves, including petrol, diesel, aviation fuel, and LPG, exceed minimum standards and are secure amid global geopolitical tensions. The government will maintain prices for subsidised fuels as directed by President Prabowo Subianto to protect low-income households, while non-subsidised fuel prices remain unchanged pending discussions with Pertamina and private operators, influenced by world oil dynamics. Bahlil highlighted diversification of imports away from the Middle East, boosted domestic production from the Balikpapan RDMP refinery, and urged the public to consume fuel judiciously to ensure supply stability.

Crude Oil Price This Morning at USD 101.7 per Barrel

The price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil continued its daily decline to around US$101.7 per barrel on Wednesday morning, 1 April 2026, down from US$101.80 the previous day. This drop is attributed to rising hopes for de-escalation in the Middle East, influenced by US and Iranian leaders, including reports of President Donald Trump potentially ending US operations to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and avoid prolonging the war. Despite the recent decline, oil prices surged nearly 40 percent in March, the strongest monthly gain since 2022, driven by supply disruptions and damaged infrastructure among major OPEC producers.

GP Ansor: PP Tunas a Progressive Step in Creating a Healthy Digital Space

The Central Leadership of Gerakan Pemuda Ansor (GP Ansor) has praised the Indonesian government's Peraturan Pemerintah Tunas as a progressive and strategic initiative to foster a safe, secure, and productive digital environment, particularly for children. The regulation addresses the dual-edged nature of digitalisation by providing legal protections against harmful content, disinformation, and child exploitation while emphasising responsible use of information. GP Ansor pledges to support its implementation through grassroots programmes in digital literacy and social advocacy, aiming to ensure the policy's real-world impact on society.

Stable Psychological Condition, KontraS Deputy Coordinator Andrie Yunus Undergoes Intensive Recovery at RSCM

Andrie Yunus, Deputy Coordinator of KontraS, is showing stable psychological condition and positive progress in physical recovery following a severe acid attack, with wounds healing through skin grafts and his right eye protected via temporary suturing after a third surgery. The RSCM medical team is providing multidisciplinary care, confirming minimal pain and no infections, while civil society groups and KontraS demand an independent investigation into the intellectual actors behind the attack to uphold democracy. President Prabowo Subianto has labelled the incident as terrorism, and treatment is being provided free of charge by the Health Ministry.

Government's Fuel-Saving Measures: WFH and Limits on Fuel Purchases

The Indonesian government has introduced eight policy packages, termed the "8 pillars of national work culture transformation," to conserve fuel reserves amid global energy supply disruptions from the Iran-US-Israel conflict. Key measures include mandatory work-from-home for civil servants every Friday, restrictions on subsidised fuel purchases to 50 litres per vehicle via MyPertamina app, budget reallocations worth up to Rp130.2 trillion, and reducing the free nutritious meal programme distribution to five days a week. These initiatives aim to enhance energy efficiency, cut non-essential spending, and promote digital work practices, with evaluations planned after two months.

Government Assurances on Fuel Stock Must Be Accompanied by Data Transparency

The Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR) supports the government's assurances on fuel availability to curb panic buying but stresses the need for regular and honest disclosure of energy supply data to maintain public trust amid rising global oil prices. With Brent crude reaching US$115 per barrel, IESR warns of potential subsidy costs ballooning to Rp460 trillion, urging a shift to targeted direct subsidies for the poor starting in 2027 to protect fiscal health and energy security. Business groups call for clear implementation of subsidised fuel purchase limits to avoid disrupting operations, while Pertamina confirms no price adjustments in line with government directives.

IDX Officially Changes Free Float Rules to Minimum 15 Percent

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has officially raised the minimum free float requirement for shares from 7.5 percent to 15 percent, following approval from the Financial Services Authority. This change, part of an updated regulation on share listings, includes tiered requirements based on market capitalisation and provides transition periods for listed companies to comply, with deadlines extending up to 2029. The move aims to enhance transparency, corporate compliance, and investor confidence in Indonesia's capital market.

Attorney General's Office Raids Two Port Offices in Kalimantan in Samin Tan Case

Indonesia's Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) has conducted raids on the Harbourmaster and Port Authority Offices (KSOP) in South Kalimantan and Central Kalimantan as part of an ongoing corruption investigation into illegal coal mining activities linked to businessman Samin Tan. The searches, which took place on 31 March, resulted in the seizure of shipping documents related to Tan's affiliated companies, suspected of facilitating the export of illegally mined coal despite the revocation of the company's mining permit in 2017. This probe, which previously involved raids on 14 locations yielding significant evidence including USD cash and heavy equipment, highlights potential involvement of state officials in oversight failures, underscoring persistent corruption challenges in Indonesia's mining sector.

Logistics Transport Restrictions End, Ketapang Port Full of Trucks

The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Transportation, is evaluating and improving key aspects of ferry transport management following the end of logistics vehicle restrictions during the Eid al-Fitr holiday period, aiming to better handle vehicle flows and buffer zones at ports like Ketapang. Post-restriction, the port has seen a significant surge in trucks, leading to queues stretching up to 12 kilometres, prompting operators to deploy additional vessels and optimise loading procedures. This influx underscores the challenges in managing peak logistics traffic across the Java-Bali crossing, with cumulative passenger and vehicle numbers rising notably since the holiday began.

Optimise Distribution, Pertamina Urges Public to Save Energy and Avoid Panic Buying

Pertamina Patra Niaga's Corporate Secretary, Roberth MV Dumatubun, has called on the public to support government energy-saving policies and refrain from panic buying triggered by unverified information, emphasising that responsible consumption is key to maintaining national energy security. The company is implementing strategic measures, including enhanced coordination with suppliers and distribution optimisation, to ensure a steady supply of fuel across Indonesia. This collaborative effort between government, security forces, and the public aims to sustain optimal energy availability, supporting economic growth without any adjustments to subsidised or non-subsidised fuel prices.

Supported by DBS, TBS Accelerates Departure from Fossil Fuels—80% of Revenue to Come from Green Energy!

PT TBS Energi Utama Tbk, an integrated energy company, has launched its Climate Transition Plan (CTP) with full support from Bank DBS Indonesia, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2030 through divestment of coal assets and investment in low-carbon businesses like waste management, renewable energy, and electric mobility. The plan projects that by 2030, nearly 80% of TBS's revenue will derive from non-coal sectors, marking a significant shift from its fossil fuel-dependent past and enhancing investor confidence via sustainable financing. This initiative positions TBS as a pioneer in Indonesia's energy transition, aligning with global standards and backed by US$600 million in investments.

Rupiah strengthens amid optimism over de-escalation of US-Iran war

The Indonesian rupiah strengthened by 55 points or 0.32% to Rp16,986 per US dollar on Wednesday morning, driven by market optimism regarding the de-escalation of the US-Iran conflict, including reports that US President Donald Trump is prepared to end military operations and focus on limiting Iran's naval capabilities while restoring trade flows. Domestically, positive sentiment stems from efficient government policies, controlled inflation expected at 3.65% for March 2026, and a projected trade surplus of $1.5 billion, though caution persists due to oil prices hovering around $100 per barrel. This appreciation reflects broader relief in global markets and bolsters Indonesia's economic outlook amid geopolitical tensions.

Eddy Soeparno Appreciates No Fuel Price Hike, Emphasises Urgency of Oil Supply

Deputy Speaker of the MPR RI, Eddy Soeparno, has praised the government's decision to maintain prices for both subsidised and non-subsidised fuels amid Middle East tensions, noting its positive psychological impact on the public by quelling rumours and preventing panic buying at petrol stations. He warns of potential global competition for oil supplies, drawing parallels to the Covid-19 vaccine scramble, and urges reliable import strategies while advocating for enhanced national energy resilience through renewable transitions and conservation. This stance highlights the delicate balance Indonesia must strike between short-term stability and long-term energy security in a volatile global market.

MPR Leader: Government's Affirmation on Fuel Prices Has Positive Impact

Indonesia's government has decided to maintain fuel prices amid Middle East tensions, quelling rumours that caused public anxiety and queues at petrol stations. MPR Deputy Chairman Eddy Soeparno praised the move for its positive psychological effect and President Prabowo Subianto's efforts to protect domestic purchasing power. He urged vigilance in securing fuel supplies and accelerating energy transition to reduce import reliance and leverage Indonesia's renewable resources.

Rupiah Strengthens This Morning to Rp 16,988 per US Dollar

The Indonesian rupiah opened stronger on Wednesday morning, gaining 53 points or 0.31% to Rp 16,988 per US dollar, following a decline the previous day. Analysts predict fluctuations with a tendency to weaken within Rp 17,040 to Rp 17,070, influenced by domestic economic growth projections of 5.1-5.2% in Q1 2026 and global oil price surges due to escalating tensions in the Middle East, including attacks on tankers and threats to energy infrastructure. This interplay of international conflicts and local dynamics underscores the rupiah's vulnerability amid broader economic pressures.

Iran Threatens to Attack Google, Microsoft, and Apple Offices

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has issued a stark warning to target offices of major US tech firms like Apple, Microsoft, Google, and others operating in the Middle East, accusing them of aiding US military operations. The threats, set to commence on 1 April 2026, urge employees and nearby residents to evacuate for safety, highlighting escalating tensions in the region. This development raises significant concerns over the security of tech infrastructure and could undermine the Middle East's ambitions to become a global hub for AI and technological investment.

Concepts of "health" and "ecotourism" deemed impactful for the economy

The Kinarya Anak Bangsa Foundation has emphasised the importance of health and ecotourism concepts grounded in environmental, land, and water conservation principles, which are expected to provide sustainable economic benefits while improving community well-being and preserving natural life. Presented during a meeting facilitated by the Klaten Regency Culture, Youth, Sports, and Tourism Office in Central Java, these ideas involve stakeholders from health services, tourism experts, and business groups, highlighting Klaten's strategic location between Solo and Yogyakarta to promote serenity, wellness, and historical tourism. Professor Laksono Trisnantoro from Universitas Gadjah Mada suggested exploring "sleep tourism" services, potentially addressing sleep disorders through further research to enhance tourism offerings in the region.

The Story of Bripka Rikha Handling PPA Cases, from Ordered Brides to Molestation

Bripka Rikha Tri Sartika, a dedicated Indonesian police officer in West Kalimantan, has handled over a hundred cases of violence against women and children since 2008, earning her a nomination for the 2026 Hoegeng Awards for her professionalism and empathy. Notable investigations include a 2023 human trafficking syndicate exploiting local women as 'ordered brides' to China, resulting in five arrests and a 10-year sentence for the main perpetrator, and a 2021 case of a fraudulent shaman who molested girls under the guise of money-doubling rituals. Her swift actions and supportive approach have been praised by victims' families, highlighting the critical role of specialised policing in combating gender-based crimes in vulnerable communities.

Pramono Anung Requests Restoration of Pac-Man Zebra Crossing in Tebet to Standard Design

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has ordered the restoration of a creatively designed zebra crossing in Tebet, South Jakarta, which features Pac-Man characters, back to its standard form to ensure road safety compliance. While appreciating the residents' initiative to beautify public spaces, he emphasised that traffic markings must adhere to official regulations to avoid confusion and accidents among road users. This move highlights the priority of safety standards over creative expressions in vital public infrastructure.

Antam Gold Price Today, 1 April 2026: Soars to Rp2.9 Million

The price of Antam gold in Indonesia has surged dramatically to Rp2.9 million per gram on 1 April 2026, driven by global economic uncertainties, geopolitical tensions, and expectations of interest rate cuts by central banks. This rise applies across all denominations from 0.5 to 1,000 grams, with buyback prices adjusted to Rp2.75 million per gram, amid a shift by investors towards safe-haven assets. The increase highlights gold's role as a hedge against rupiah fluctuations and ongoing conflicts, particularly in the Middle East, impacting domestic markets.

President Scheduled to Attend National Easter Celebration in Manado

The National Easter Celebration for 2026 is set to take place in Manado, North Sulawesi, from 7 to 9 April, with President Prabowo Subianto expected to attend, as announced by Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar. The minister hopes the event will surpass previous years by fostering interfaith unity and harmony among Indonesia's diverse population. This follows calls for religious leaders to promote peace and brotherhood amid overlapping major religious holidays like Nyepi, Eid al-Fitr, and Easter, each carrying universal values that strengthen social cohesion.

Tech Giant Begins to Fold, Crisis Becomes More Ominous

The global semiconductor crisis, exacerbated by surging demand for AI-driven data centres, has forced Japanese tech giant Sony to temporarily halt orders for nearly all its SD and CFexpress memory card lines starting 27 March 2026. This decision stems from insufficient global memory supplies unable to meet demand, affecting products across various capacities and speeds, from high-end to entry-level models. As the first major player in the photography sector to take this step, Sony's move signals deepening industry-wide challenges, with production resumption uncertain until market stability returns.

Social Media Restrictions: An 'Investment' in Children's Growth and Development

The Indonesian government's policy under PP TUNAS, which restricts social media access for children under 16, has been positively received by medical professionals as a vital step in safeguarding children's holistic health. Paediatric specialist Dr Ni Luh Sukma Pratiwi Murti emphasises that this measure supports balanced physical, mental, and social well-being during critical developmental stages, mitigating risks from addictive digital content and excessive screen time. She calls for active parental involvement in supervision and positive activities, alongside regulations compelling digital platforms to create safer online environments free from harmful content like pornography and bullying.

The Buzz Around "Events" Weaving Tourism

West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) is ramping up its tourism strategy by scheduling 69 events across the province in 2026 to drive visitor numbers towards an ambitious target of over 2.55 million tourists annually, aiming for stable year-round economic activity. While past events like national recreational sports gatherings have generated significant economic turnover, such as Rp130 billion in 2025, concerns arise over whether the sheer volume of events will ensure equitable and sustainable impacts or merely create temporary buzz. Amid global challenges like geopolitical conflicts reducing European visitors by 11%, NTB is adapting by targeting closer markets including Malaysia, Singapore, and Australia to bolster its event-driven approach.

Impact of Middle East Conflict on Honda's Car Exports to the Philippines

The escalating conflict in the Middle East is raising concerns over potential disruptions to global energy supplies, including fuel shortages in the Philippines that could affect the automotive industry. PT Honda Prospect Motor (HPM) has confirmed that its car exports to the Philippines remain normal for now, with the company maintaining its target of 17,000 units across 35 countries despite closely monitoring the situation. This development underscores the need for automotive exporters to adapt to global uncertainties to sustain trade stability.

Home Affairs Minister Issues Circular Regulating Work Culture Transformation for Regional Civil Servants

Indonesia's Minister of Home Affairs, Muhammad Tito Karnavian, has issued a circular outlining guidelines for transforming the work culture of civil servants in regional governments, including a hybrid work model with one day of work from home per week. The policy aims to accelerate digital services and the adoption of electronic-based government systems (SPBE) while ensuring performance targets are met, building on successful implementations during the Covid-19 pandemic. Exceptions apply to critical units such as disaster management and public order, which must maintain full office-based operations.

Indonesia Strongly Condemns Attack on UNIFIL, Urges UN to Investigate War Crimes

The Indonesian government has expressed profound grief and outrage over attacks targeting its peacekeeping troops in the UNIFIL mission in Lebanon, with Ambassador Umar Hadi delivering a firm condemnation at an emergency UN Security Council session. Indonesia attributes the escalation to repeated Israeli military violations of Lebanese sovereignty, demanding an immediate, thorough, and transparent independent investigation by the UN into what it deems potential war crimes. The nation calls on the Security Council to unite in condemning assaults on peacekeepers, prioritising the safety of humanitarian personnel amid rising conflict.

Police Uncover Swallow's Nest Business Scam in Central Java, Victims Lose Rp 78 Billion

Central Java Police have arrested a 36-year-old man identified as JS for allegedly perpetrating a fraudulent swallow's nest business scheme that defrauded victims of Rp 78 billion between April 2022 and July 2025. JS lured investors with promises of two to three times returns on their initial investments, posing as an exporter to China and sending fake photos of locations to build trust, leading victims to transfer funds to fictitious accounts. Investigations revealed that JS squandered part of the proceeds on luxury vehicles, including nine cars such as a white Mercedes Benz GLE 450 and a white Toyota Alphard, highlighting the risks of unregulated investment schemes in Indonesia.

Strengthening Strategic Partnership, President Prabowo Warmly Welcomed at Blue House

President Prabowo Subianto began his state visit to South Korea with a formal welcome at the Blue House by President Lee Jae-myung, featuring national anthems, a military honour guard inspection, and introductions of delegations. The visit aims to bolster bilateral ties in investment, downstream processing, and digital technology, following Prabowo's recent trip to Japan. This diplomatic tour underscores Indonesia's efforts to deepen strategic partnerships in East Asia amid regional economic and security dynamics.

Trump's Ambitious Rp6.8 Trillion Project Hit by Judge's Rebuke: Stop Now!

A US district judge has ordered a complete halt to President Donald Trump's US$400 million (Rp6.8 trillion) luxury ballroom project at the White House, ruling that it violates constitutional procedures by proceeding without congressional approval after demolishing the historic East Wing. The decision, prompted by a lawsuit from the National Trust for Historic Preservation, underscores the importance of legislative oversight on federal property and expenditures, contrasting with historical precedents like President Truman's renovations. The Trump administration has appealed, with the president denouncing the ruling and the preservation group on social media, while the judge emphasised that congressional authorisation could still allow the project to proceed legally.

Jakarta Government Follows Central Directive on ASN WFH Every Friday

The Jakarta Provincial Government has committed to implementing a weekly work-from-home policy for civil servants every Friday starting 1 April 2026, in line with national directives aimed at enhancing efficiency, digital productivity, and fiscal resilience amid global uncertainties. Essential services such as health, security, and strategic industries are exempt, while the policy also supports the rollout of B50 biodiesel from July 2026 to reduce fossil fuel dependency and budget refocusing to productive sectors. This synergy between central and regional governments is expected to bolster Jakarta's economic resilience and promote sustainable work culture.

Three TNI Soldiers Killed in Lebanon, ICWA Supports Government in Urging UN Security Council to Hold Emergency Meeting

The Indonesian Council on World Affairs (ICWA) has strongly condemned an Israeli attack in southern Lebanon on 29-30 March 2026, which resulted in the deaths of three Indonesian UNIFIL peacekeepers and injuries to three others, highlighting Israel's lack of commitment to Middle East peace. ICWA expressed deep condolences to the families and supported UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' call for a thorough investigation into the projectile's origin, while backing the Indonesian government's push for an emergency UN Security Council meeting. The UN has condemned the attack targeting peacekeepers and urged respect for international law, underscoring the ongoing risks to UN personnel in the region.

Reasons Behind the US Dollar Breaking Through Rp17,000

The Indonesian rupiah has weakened significantly against the US dollar, surpassing the Rp17,000 level amid external pressures from rising global oil prices due to the Middle East conflict and internal concerns over fiscal impacts. Economists highlight factors including foreign selling pressure in the government bond market, government decisions on unsubsidised fuel prices, and seasonal financial outflows, which are exacerbating market sentiment. Bank Indonesia may delay interventions as global risks ease, with upcoming inflation and trade balance data adding to uncertainties.

Bahlil Urges Public to Be Prudent: 50 Litres of Fuel Already Fills the Tank

Indonesia's Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, has called on the public to use fuel prudently, suggesting that 50 litres is sufficient to fill a private vehicle's tank for a day's use, amid government efforts to mitigate potential global crises. The administration is implementing purchase limits via the MyPertamina app and introducing a B50 biodiesel blending mandate starting July 2026 to reduce fossil fuel consumption by 4 million kilolitres and save Rp48 trillion in subsidies over six months. Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto assured that national fuel stocks and the economy remain stable, emphasising the need for behavioural changes to ensure fair distribution.

Body in Freezer Case: Police Arrest Receiver of Victim's Stolen Goods

Jakarta police have arrested a suspect identified as A, accused of receiving stolen items from victim AH, whose body was discovered in a freezer in Bekasi. The perpetrators, DS alias ANC and S, who were colleagues of the victim, murdered him after he refused to join their plan to steal from their employer, selling his mobile phone and two motorcycles for a total of approximately Rp4.6 million shortly after the crime on 22-23 March 2026. Investigators are probing the use of the proceeds from these sales as the case unfolds.

Minister of Culture Expresses Condolences Over the Fallen Indonesian Soldiers in Peacekeeping Mission

Indonesian Minister of Culture Fadli Zon has expressed profound condolences for the deaths of three Indonesian soldiers serving in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), attributing the incident to an Israeli attack in southern Lebanon. He condemned the assault for endangering peacekeepers, civilians, and cultural heritage, emphasising the moral and legal obligations under international law to protect cultural assets during conflicts. Zon reaffirmed Indonesia's commitment to international cooperation, peace, and the safeguarding of humanity's shared cultural legacy amid escalating violence in the Middle East.

Reasons Government Chooses Friday WFH, Still Monitors to Ensure Civil Servants Don't Turn It into a Holiday

The Indonesian government has decided to implement a work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants every Friday starting from 1 April 2026, aiming to foster a more efficient and digital-based work culture without disrupting public services. Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto explained that Fridays are selected due to their typically shorter working hours, while Minister Rini Widyantini assured that performance will be closely monitored via the E-Kinerja application to prevent misuse as extended weekends. This initiative responds to global economic pressures, such as those from Middle East conflicts affecting oil prices, and includes measures like reducing official vehicle use by 50% and cutting domestic and international business travel by 50% and 70%, respectively, to enhance productivity and sustainability.

Pramono Anung Ensures DKI Civil Servants Work from Home Every Friday, Private Vehicles Banned

The Jakarta Provincial Government has implemented a policy requiring civil servants to work from home every Friday, following central government directives to reduce traffic congestion and pollution in the capital. Governor Pramono Anung emphasised strict enforcement, including a ban on private vehicle use during WFH periods to encourage public transport utilisation, with free rides available for ASN. Oversight by the Regional Personnel Agency will ensure productivity and prevent misuse, aiming for tangible improvements in traffic flow on the last working day of the week.

Pramono Assures ASN WFH Every Friday Will Not Disrupt Public Services in Jakarta

The Jakarta Provincial Government has implemented a policy allowing civil servants (ASN) to work from home every Friday, with Governor Pramono Anung emphasising that essential public services such as healthcare, social assistance, and education will remain fully operational and unaffected. Critical facilities including 44 puskesmas, 292 puskesmas pembantu, and 31 hospitals under provincial management will continue normal operations, as these cannot be substituted remotely. The policy includes supporting regulations to ensure effectiveness, such as restricting private vehicle use to promote public transport, aligning with the central government's similar directive.

KPI Promotes Broadcasting Collaboration to Achieve National Resilience

The Indonesian Broadcasting Commission (KPI) has emphasised the need for collaboration in the broadcasting sector to foster national resilience, particularly during the 93rd National Broadcasting Day themed around this goal. Amid challenges from digital platforms, KPI Chairman Ubaidillah called for fair regulations to balance the ecosystem, aligning with President Prabowo's Asta Cita vision to strengthen Pancasila ideology, democracy, and human rights through quality content. The initiative supports cultural defence, economic creativity, and child protection measures, aiming to transform broadcasting into a vital tool for Indonesia's Golden 2045 ambitions.

Official Fees for Issuing and Renewing SIM A until April 2026

Indonesian drivers of private four-wheeled vehicles must possess a valid SIM A licence, which serves as proof of their competence to operate vehicles on public roads, with mandatory renewal or reissuance upon expiry to avoid legal penalties under traffic laws. As of April 2026, official state fees remain unchanged at Rp 120,000 for new SIM A and SIM A Umum issuances and Rp 80,000 for renewals, though applicants often incur additional costs for psychological tests ranging from Rp 57,500 to Rp 100,000 and optional insurance fees of Rp 30,000 to Rp 50,000. This regulatory framework underscores the government's emphasis on road safety and compliance, ensuring only qualified individuals are permitted to drive.

Antam Gold Price Rises by Rp 75,000, Now Breaches Rp 2.9 Million per Gram

The price of Antam gold has surged by Rp 75,000 to Rp 2,902,000 per gram as of Wednesday morning, with the buyback price also increasing to Rp 2,587,000 per gram. This rise reflects ongoing volatility in the precious metals market, influencing investor sentiment in Indonesia. Transactions are subject to taxes under PMK No. 34/PMK.10/2017, and buybacks over Rp 10 million incur income tax deductions of 1.5% for NPWP holders or 3% for non-holders, directly impacting net returns for sellers.

Facts on ASN WFH Policy: Starting 1 April, Here's the List of Exceptions

The Indonesian government has implemented a Work From Home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN) every Friday, effective from 1 April 2026, to conserve fuel amid rising global oil prices due to the Middle East conflict. President Prabowo Subianto directed this measure, drawing parallels to Pakistan's crisis response during the US-Iran tensions, with the policy announced by Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto and formalised in circulars by the Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian. While the full list of exceptions is not detailed in the announcement, it aims to ensure preparedness despite sufficient domestic fuel stocks.

US Dollar Breaks Through Rp17,000, Rupiah Hits All-Time Low

The Indonesian rupiah has reached its weakest level in history, breaching Rp17,000 per US dollar on Wednesday, following a record closing low of Rp16,990 the previous day amid persistent global uncertainties and strong demand for the dollar. This depreciation marks the second consecutive day of new lows for the currency, despite recent Bank Indonesia measures to bolster foreign exchange liquidity. The article contextualises this event within a history of severe rupiah pressures, from the 1997-98 Asian Financial Crisis to the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic, highlighting recurring vulnerabilities tied to political instability, global shocks, and capital flight.

No Fuel Price Increase on 1 April 2026, Public Urged Not to Panic Buy

Pertamina Patra Niaga has confirmed that there will be no adjustment to fuel prices, both subsidised and non-subsidised, starting 1 April 2026, in line with government directives aimed at maintaining public purchasing power amid global economic pressures. The company is ensuring optimal fuel distribution nationwide and urging the public to use energy wisely, avoid panic buying triggered by unverified information, and participate in energy conservation efforts. This reassurance addresses recent rumours and a circulating decree on purchase limits, emphasising the importance of responsible consumption for national energy resilience.