Gold and silver prices tumbled over 2% on Thursday amid a surging US dollar and rising global oil prices, triggered by US President Donald Trump's announcement of continued military strikes against Iran. The dollar index broke above 100, making dollar-denominated gold more expensive for other currency holders, while Brent crude oil surged 8% to $109.28 per barrel, fuelling inflation fears and reducing expectations for interest rate cuts. This downturn ended a four-day rally for gold and highlights the metal's vulnerability to high interest rates and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Jakarta's odd-even vehicle restriction system has been suspended for today, Friday 3 April 2026, due to the national holiday commemorating the Death of Jesus Christ. The DKI Jakarta Transportation Agency announced this via its official Instagram account, citing Governor's Regulation No. 88 of 2019, which exempts such restrictions on national holidays. Authorities urge drivers to adhere to traffic rules for safety, with fines up to Rp500,000 for violations under traffic laws.

Indonesian Minister of Creative Economy Teuku Riefky Harsya has emphasised that creative works cannot be valued with a uniform pricing approach due to varying factors such as location, experience level, and job risks, drawing lessons from the recent acquittal of videographer Amsal Sitepu in a markup allegation case. The government is developing guidelines for creative economy services to better understand the economic value of creative outputs without stifling industry flexibility, involving stakeholders like professional associations and academics. This initiative aims to foster a healthier ecosystem for the creative sector by promoting fair recognition of creativity's worth.

The number of Chinese tourists visiting Indonesia hit a six-year high of 150,800 in February 2026, driven by the extended Chinese New Year holiday, marking a 69% increase from the previous year and a 36% rise from January. Bali remained the top destination, attracting 52% of arrivals via its international airport, with a 78% monthly surge in visitors to the island. This positive trend is seen as a boost for Indonesia's national tourism sector, providing direct economic benefits to local businesses and the broader economy.

US President Donald Trump has vowed to intensify attacks on Iran over the next 2-3 weeks, threatening to revert the country to the Stone Age, escalating tensions that have led to Iranian missile strikes on Israel and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. Global oil prices have surged over 7% to around US$108 per barrel amid fears of prolonged conflict halting vital energy shipments, prompting dozens of nations to seek ways to restore navigation while European leaders emphasise diplomatic solutions and ceasefires. The conflict, which has already claimed thousands of lives since late February, risks broader economic fallout including fuel shortages in Asia, potential crises in Europe and Africa, and volatility in global financial markets.

Austria has rejected requests from the United States to utilise its airspace for military operations against Iran, citing its longstanding policy of military neutrality. The Austrian Defence Ministry confirmed the requests but stated that each is being evaluated on a case-by-case basis without imposing a blanket ban on US flights. Opposition parties have urged the government to maintain this stance, highlighting the broader economic and global peace implications amid ongoing US-Israel airstrikes on Iran and Tehran's retaliatory attacks.

The Pluit Reservoir in North Jakarta has suddenly turned green due to a rapid proliferation of water hyacinth, sparking public concern over water quality and environmental management in the capital. Cleanup efforts by the Jakarta Environment Agency have removed over 160 cubic metres of the invasive plant in recent days, but experts warn that underlying eutrophication from domestic waste and nutrient overload will cause recurring growth without stricter pollution controls. This incident highlights the need for ongoing monitoring and modern technologies to preserve the reservoir's flood control function amid urban pressures.

The National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) has investigated the TNI Military Police Central Command (Puspom) regarding the attempted murder case of Kontras activist Andrie Yunus, revealing a lack of coordination between the police and military prior to announcing the suspects' identities. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives' Commission XIII has grilled the government over inconsistent data on victims of past gross human rights violations, highlighting stalled efforts for victim rehabilitation including ineffective use of priority health cards. Additionally, a DPR lawmaker argues against forming a Fact-Finding Team for the Yunus case, as the investigation has been handed over to the military police, amid calls from advocacy groups for an independent probe into potential intellectual masterminds.

Kongō Gumi, a Japanese construction firm founded in 578 AD, stands as one of the world's oldest continuously operating businesses, predating the prophetic mission of Muhammad by decades and specialising in building and restoring Buddhist temples. Its remarkable longevity stems from a blend of family stewardship, cultural reverence for tradition, technical expertise in nail-free woodworking, and adaptive strategies, including acquisition by Takamatsu Corporation in 2006 to navigate modern financial pressures. The company's history underscores the enduring power of heritage-driven enterprises in sustaining economic and cultural value amid centuries of political, social, and economic upheavals.

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) conducted a solemn ceremony in Beirut to honour three Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) personnel who lost their lives while serving on peacekeeping duties in southern Lebanon. Major Infantry (Posthumous) Zulmi Aditya Iskandar, Chief Sergeant (Posthumous) Muhammad Nur Ichwan, and Corporal Two (Posthumous) Farizal Rhomadon were killed in separate explosions on 29 and 30 March 2026, with the event attended by UN and Lebanese officials, including the Indonesian Ambassador. The ceremony, which included posthumous awards, underscores the sacrifices made by Indonesian peacekeepers and the international commitment to stability in the region, highlighting Indonesia's active role in global peacekeeping efforts.

President Prabowo Subianto has reaffirmed Indonesia's impeccable record of never defaulting on debt throughout its history, positioning the nation as a reliable investment partner during a business forum in Tokyo. He highlighted the consistent honouring of financial commitments across successive governments, contrasting it with defaults by major economies, and introduced a results-oriented investment approach exemplified by the 300% performance surge in the BPI Danantara sovereign wealth fund. This messaging aims to bolster investor confidence, particularly from Japan, and drive sustainable economic growth through strategic partnerships.

On 2 April, Jakarta saw several key developments, including the tightening of official travel permits for civil servants by the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government to ensure benefits to the city, and the deployment of 4,500 police personnel to secure Easter celebrations. Other notable events included efforts to normalise waste transport to the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Site post-Eid holidays, a surge in passengers at Kampung Rambutan Terminal ahead of the Easter long weekend, and directives for regional agencies to align budget proposals with central government policies and 2027 development priorities. These measures highlight Jakarta's focus on efficient governance, public safety, and urban management during holiday periods.

Heavy rains in Grobogan Regency, Central Java, have caused flooding that submerged part of the railway tracks between Karangjati and Gubug stations, leading to single-line operations and delays of 10 to 15 minutes for at least eight trains on the northern route. PT KAI Daerah Operasi 4 Semarang implemented operational adjustments starting at 1:45 AM WIB to ensure safety, with intensive monitoring underway to restore normal services. This incident highlights the vulnerability of Indonesia's rail infrastructure to extreme weather events, potentially impacting commuter and long-distance travel.

The Metro Jaya Police Traffic Directorate has announced that SIM Keliling services in Jakarta will be suspended on Friday, 3 April 2026, coinciding with the national holiday for the Death of Jesus Christ. These services, which assist residents in renewing their driving licences, will resume normally on Saturday, 4 April 2026. Holders of SIMs expiring on the holiday date are advised to renew them the following day.

The Indonesian government is advancing the merger of seven state-owned construction firms, known as BUMN Karya, with completion targeted for the end of 2026 following financial restructuring expected by mid-year. PT Hutama Karya, leading the process, has established a Project Management Office to synchronise human resources, operations, and systems among the entities, addressing ongoing financial challenges in some companies. Initiated in 2024 under Minister Erick Thohir, this consolidation aims to strengthen the construction sector through improved financial health and integration into core areas like building, infrastructure, and engineering procurement.

A PDIP lawmaker has called on President Prabowo Subianto to establish an independent Joint Fact-Finding Team (TGPF) to thoroughly investigate the attempted murder of human rights activist Andrie Yunus, framing it as a human rights violation rather than a mere criminal act. This push comes amid concerns over the transparency of the ongoing police and military investigations, where suspects have been identified but not publicly shown, raising suspicions of a cover-up. While civil society and academics support the TGPF to uncover intellectual masterminds and ensure accountability, a NasDem MP opposes it, arguing the case's handover to the TNI's military police suffices.

Two diabetes patients have filed a lawsuit with Indonesia's Constitutional Court challenging provisions in the Consumer Protection Law and Health Law, demanding that producers of packaged food and drinks be required to include colour-coded symbols to clearly indicate sugar content. They argue that current labelling with small, technical numbers hinders quick comprehension, creating legal uncertainty and violating constitutional guarantees of fair legal certainty under Article 28D(1) of the 1945 Constitution. This case highlights growing concerns over consumer rights and public health in relation to opaque food labelling practices.

President Prabowo Subianto's visit to Japan in late March 2026 has been hailed as a strategic milestone for bolstering Indonesia's investments in high-value sectors such as aviation leasing, energy, and advanced manufacturing, culminating in several memoranda of understanding (MoUs) signed at the Japan-Indonesia Business Forum. Mukhamad Misbakhun, Chairman of DPR RI Commission XI, emphasised that this initiative represents 'economic statecraft' to enhance Indonesia's global competitiveness, with the launch of the Mandiri Aviation Leasing Fund marking Indonesia's entry as a player in the global aviation supply chain rather than just a market. This partnership, involving Danantara Investment Management and Japanese firms, is poised to foster sustainable economic growth through technology transfer, institutional strengthening, and replicable financing models across various asset classes.

Escalating tensions in the Middle East, including military strikes between Iran, the US, and Israel, have driven global oil prices to surge, with Brent crude reaching US$108.15 per barrel amid fears of disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. China has blamed US and Israeli operations for the instability, while warnings of imminent attacks by pro-Iran militias in Iraq and vows of retaliation from Iran heighten the risk of broader conflict, impacting energy markets worldwide.

Following a 7.6 magnitude earthquake that triggered an early tsunami warning in North Maluku and North Sulawesi, Indonesia's National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) has mobilised full personnel from three SAR offices in Sulawesi Utara, Maluku, and Palu to conduct rapid assessments and ensure public safety. The response involves coordination with the military, police, local disaster agencies, and other SAR potentials, with one fatality reported and another person under treatment. This integrated effort, supported by real-time information from BMKG and BNPB, underscores the importance of swift disaster management to mitigate further risks in affected coastal areas where tsunami waves up to 0.75 metres were detected.

The Post-Disaster Sumatra Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force (Satgas PRR) has completed 84.28 percent of mud cleanup efforts across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, with 445 out of 528 sites cleared as of 2 April 2026. The remaining work focuses on schools, public facilities like health centres and mosques, and offices to restore community activities and public services. Initiatives such as cash-for-work programmes are accelerating recovery while providing income to affected residents, highlighting the government's commitment to efficient post-flood rehabilitation.

The bodies of three Indonesian National Army (TNI) soldiers who died during their peacekeeping mission with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in March 2026 are scheduled to be flown back to Indonesia either on Friday, 3 April, or Saturday, 4 April, depending on limited flight availability amid ongoing conflicts. Brigadier General TNI Rico Ricardo Sirait, Head of the Defence Ministry's Information Bureau, explained that the remains are currently at Saida Hospital in Lebanon undergoing preparation for repatriation. The incident highlights the risks faced by Indonesian troops in international peacekeeping operations, with Fahrizal killed by indirect artillery fire and Nur Ichwan and Zulmi dying in a vehicle explosion.

This opinion piece argues that consumer protection is essential for maintaining trust and stability in Indonesia's financial services industry, particularly amid rising digital fraud, data misuse, and opaque products. It highlights recent regulatory advancements, such as the 2023 Financial Sector Development and Strengthening Law and POJK No. 22/2023, which shift towards fair treatment, and introduces POJK No. 38/2025, empowering OJK to file civil lawsuits on behalf of harmed consumers to address issues like mis-selling and data exploitation. These measures are positioned as critical investments in the sector's long-term resilience and competitiveness, ensuring equitable market dynamics in the digital era.

The Head of the Karo District Prosecutor's Office, Danke Rajagukguk, faced questioning from Commission III of the DPR over a misleading narrative suggesting the commission had intervened to improperly release videographer Amsal Christy Sitepu from prison. In reality, the detention suspension was granted by the Medan District Court judges at the DPR's request, but the prosecutor's letter erroneously referred to it as a "transfer" rather than a "suspension," sparking controversy. Danke admitted the discrepancy was due to a typing error, acknowledging the mistake during the parliamentary inquiry.

In an era of global geopolitical uncertainty, Indonesia must prioritise its vast coal resources for domestic energy needs to bolster national sovereignty and economic stability, rather than relying heavily on exports. The article advocates for using coal not only as a baseload for electricity but also as a feedstock for industries like DME production to substitute LPG imports, thereby reducing trade deficits and enhancing industrial self-sufficiency. Long-term strategies should integrate clean coal technologies with renewable diversification to achieve true energy independence while aligning with constitutional mandates for resource utilisation benefiting the populace.

PT Saka Energi Indonesia has successfully completed the drilling of the UPA-17ST development well in the Ujung Pangkah field, East Java, yielding 2,443 barrels of oil per day and 3.72 million standard cubic feet of associated gas per day, surpassing targets. This milestone, achieved through advanced extended reach drilling technology and well intervention, highlights the field's ongoing potential and supports national energy needs by optimising existing infrastructure without new platforms. The success has been praised by SKK Migas, reinforcing Saka Energi's commitment to efficient production and contributing to Indonesia's oil and gas lifting targets.

This opinion piece explores how the shift from analogue to digital media has democratised personal existence but created a perpetual "prison" of collective digital memory, where past mistakes or even false information are nearly impossible to erase. Drawing on concepts like news value and references to scholars such as Alice Bell and George Santayana, the author highlights the irony of digital permanence, which hinders redemption and forgiveness. It concludes by introducing the EU's "right to be forgotten" under GDPR as a potential remedy, emphasising the philosophical implications for individual rights in the digital age.

Jakarta's air quality has been recorded as unhealthy for sensitive groups, with an AQI of 115 and PM2.5 levels exceeding WHO guidelines by 8.2 times, prompting recommendations for mask-wearing and limiting outdoor activities. The city ranks fifth worst in Indonesia for air pollution, behind areas like Serpong and South Tangerang. The DKI Provincial Government is evaluating its Air Pollution Control Strategy (SPPU) and stresses the need for integrated, cross-regional collaboration to address the issue effectively.

PT Pupuk Indonesia is proposing the construction of two methanol plants, each with a capacity of 1 million tonnes, in collaboration with Danantara to bolster domestic production and reduce reliance on imports amid the government's planned B50 biodiesel mandate starting in July 2026. This initiative aims to meet the projected national methanol demand of 2.9 million tonnes by addressing the current shortfall, where domestic output stands at only 400,000 tonnes against imports of 1.4 million tonnes. The policy, endorsed by Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto and Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia, is expected to save Rp48 trillion in subsidies and achieve a diesel surplus in 2026 while enhancing energy and food security through sustainable biofuel development.

Global crude oil prices have surged dramatically, with Brent closing at US$109.28 per barrel on Thursday after an 8.03% increase, while spot prices reached US$141.36 per barrel amid severe supply disruptions from Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This escalation, driven by ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran and warnings of further military action from President Trump, highlights a deepening energy crisis that financial futures markets have yet to fully reflect, potentially leading to prolonged global supply shortages.

MP Hinca Panjaitan from Commission III of the DPR raised concerns during a meeting about Chief Prosecutor Danke Rajagukguk of Karo allegedly receiving vehicles, including a Nissan Grand Livina and Toyota models, from Karo Regent Antonius Ginting amid the Amsal Sitepu case. Hinca questioned whether this influenced the prosecutor's office to target creative workers while overlooking local government officials. Danke offered apologies for any errors but remained silent and smiled when pressed on the matter post-meeting, highlighting potential ethical issues in law enforcement.

PT Pupuk Indonesia's CEO, Rahmad Pribadi, has assured that the national fertiliser supply and raw materials are secure despite escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, thanks to advance government payments and domestic price controls. The company has diversified import sources for key inputs like phosphate, potash, and sulphur from non-conflict regions such as Canada and Laos, while maintaining robust production capacity of 14.8 million tonnes annually, with urea fully met domestically using local natural gas. New regulations under Presidential Regulation No. 113/2025 enhance subsidy efficiency through market-based pricing, improving distribution speed and accessibility for farmers, thereby supporting agricultural stability and mitigating global supply risks.

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III has affirmed that the acquittal of videographer Amsal Sitepu cannot be appealed under the new Criminal Procedure Code, following a meeting with North Sumatra's High Prosecutor's Office and the Karo District Prosecutor's Office. The commission issued five key conclusions, including demands for an evaluation of the prosecutor's handling of the case, investigations into alleged intimidation by specific prosecutors, probes into claims of parliamentary intervention, and a review of the case for internal assessment. This development underscores efforts to ensure judicial fairness and prevent overreach by law enforcement in sensitive cases.

Videographer Amsal Christy Sitepu expressed lingering fears of an appeal by prosecutors following his acquittal in a village profile video project markup case, despite the court's ruling in his favour. The DPR's Commission III affirmed that no appeal or cassation is possible under the new Criminal Procedure Code, providing reassurance and highlighting a victory for Indonesia's creative economy sector. The North Sumatra Attorney General's Office stated it would consider the commission's recommendation through its leadership chain.

PT Pupuk Indonesia's CEO, Rahmad Pribadi, has affirmed that urea fertiliser exports will proceed only after ensuring domestic agricultural needs are fully met, prioritising national food security amid global supply disruptions from Middle East tensions. Despite a sharp rise in global urea prices from around $400 to $800 per tonne due to the Strait of Hormuz closure, Indonesia's production capacity of 8.8 million tonnes operationally allows it to export about 1.5 million tonnes flexibly to countries like Australia and India while maintaining internal stability. This positions Indonesia as a potential global stabiliser for fertiliser supplies, as highlighted by Deputy Minister of Agriculture Sudaryono, with several nations seeking imports regardless of cost.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) conducted searches at two residences of West Java DPRD Deputy Chairman Ono Surono in connection with an alleged ijon bribery case involving the suspended Bekasi Regent Ade Kuswara Kunang. During the raid in Bandung, authorities seized hundreds of millions of rupiah in cash, documents, and electronic evidence, while in Indramayu, they confiscated Rp 50 million from the family and Rp 200 million from an arisan group, prompting claims of intimidation and framing by Ono's legal team. KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo firmly denied any coercion, stating that the family voluntarily disabled the CCTV and that the searches followed proper procedures.

PT Pupuk Indonesia's CEO, Rahmad Pribadi, has assured that the maximum retail price (HET) for subsidised fertiliser will remain unchanged despite disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, thanks to the company's substantial domestic urea production capacity of 8.8 million tonnes annually, which meets national needs without reliance on imports. This stability follows a 20% price reduction implemented in October 2025 under President Prabowo Subianto's administration, lowering urea from Rp2,250 to Rp1,800 per kilogram and NPK from Rp2,300 to Rp1,840 per kilogram, aimed at boosting farmer welfare and agricultural productivity. The policy has already led to a 31% increase in fertiliser uptake in 2026, underscoring its positive impact on the sector.

The Indonesian government's KIP Kuliah programme offers financial assistance to underprivileged students pursuing higher education, covering tuition fees and providing living allowances to break the cycle of poverty. Registration for the 2026 intake via the UTBK-SNBT pathway opened on 2 February 2026 and closes on 31 October 2026, with automatic integration for existing KIP holders from secondary school. Eligible applicants must meet income criteria and follow an online registration process, including validation of personal data, while KIP beneficiaries receive fee waivers for the UTBK-SNBT exam.

The ongoing war in Iran has disrupted oil and gas supplies through the Strait of Hormuz, prompting Asian countries like South Korea, Japan, the Philippines, Thailand, and India to ramp up coal-fired power operations to mitigate energy shortages and rising electricity prices. While this temporary reliance on coal highlights vulnerabilities in Asia's heavy dependence on Middle Eastern fossil fuel imports, experts suggest it may slow decarbonisation efforts but is unlikely to reverse long-term commitments to cleaner energy due to environmental and competitiveness concerns. The conflict is expected to accelerate diversification strategies, including greater emphasis on nuclear energy and renewables, to enhance regional energy security and resilience.

Indonesian House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has emphasised that the policy allowing civil servants (ASN) to work from home every Friday, in response to global energy dynamics, must not compromise public service productivity. She stressed that public trust depends on timely document processing, responsive administration, and consistent government decision-making, regardless of physical office presence. Puan views the initiative as an opportunity for bureaucratic modernisation if it shifts focus to measurable performance while ensuring direct services to citizens remain efficient.

Singapore's Foreign Minister has labelled the US a 'revisionist power' amid its disruptive actions under Trump's second term, prompting Southeast Asian nations to shift from pragmatic engagement to preventive measures to avert worst-case scenarios like tariffs. While selective cooperation continues in areas such as supply chain security and critical minerals, trust in US commitments has eroded due to abandoned initiatives like the Trans-Pacific Partnership and Just Energy Transition Partnerships. This evolving dynamic underscores the need for diversification in ties with Washington to mitigate risks from its unilateral policies.

Members of the National Energy Council (DEN) and the House of Representatives have reassured the public that Pertamina is working diligently to maintain fuel oil (BBM) supplies amid a global energy crisis triggered by the Iran-US and Israel conflict, with Indonesia's situation far better than many Southeast Asian neighbours where fuel prices have surged significantly. Officials emphasise that fuel stocks exceed 20 days, surpassing minimum operational reserves, and urge citizens to stay calm, avoid panic buying, and consume energy wisely to support government efforts in managing fiscal burdens from subsidies. Price adjustments are necessary to mitigate the financial strain, as each $1 increase in oil prices adds approximately Rp10.3 trillion to subsidy costs, with current prices over $100 per barrel.

Ono Surono's lawyer, Sahali, has accused KPK investigators of intimidation during a search of the PDI-P West Java chairman's home, alleging they insisted on turning off the CCTV and pushed to seize family and arisan funds despite evidence of their communal nature. Sahali dismissed the KPK's claim that the family disabled the CCTV, calling it illogical, and questioned the absence of a search warrant as required by Indonesian law. The incident highlights tensions in the ongoing corruption probe, with further searches planned, raising concerns over procedural fairness in anti-corruption efforts.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has completed its investigation into an alleged bribery case involving the owner of PT Blueray, John Field, and two associates, handing over the suspects, case files, and evidence to the KPK's Public Prosecutor for further proceedings. The trio is accused of bribing officials at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise, including former Director Rizal and others, to facilitate import processes. This development underscores ongoing efforts to combat corruption within Indonesia's customs authority, with charges under anti-corruption and criminal codes applicable to all involved parties.

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has stated that implementing Work From Home (WFH) for civil servants one day a week will significantly cut regional budget expenses, particularly on vehicle fuel for official cars. He emphasised strict rules prohibiting personal use of official vehicles during WFH and encouraged the use of free public transport provided to civil servants, while warning of firm action against misuse. Additionally, Pramono announced a review and reduction of official trips outside the region for both government staff and regional-owned enterprises to enhance administrative efficiency amid global economic challenges.

PT Dian Swastatika Sentosa Tbk (DSSA) plans to invest Rp 30-35 trillion over the next five years to develop seven geothermal sites across Indonesia, aiming to achieve a total installed capacity of 780 MW and position itself as a world-class player in the sector. This initiative aligns with the government's energy transition agenda, leveraging Indonesia's vast 40% share of global geothermal reserves to reduce reliance on coal-fired power plants and enhance renewable energy contributions. DSSA is also advancing sustainable practices, including solar panel production and partnerships with global firms, to ensure long-term operational efficiency and lower carbon emissions.

Indonesian National Police (Polri) has disclosed various violations and fatalities among trainees in 2025, including expulsions for deviant behaviour, grade tampering, drug use, and cheating at institutions like the Police Academy and STIK. Additional deaths were reported due to heat stroke, heart attacks, gastric acid issues, and infections such as pneumonia and HIV across several training centres. These incidents are under evaluation to enhance health monitoring and supervision in the selection process, highlighting transparency efforts during a parliamentary hearing.

Perum Bulog's CEO, Agmad Rizal Ramdhani, has reassured the public that national rice stocks stand at a robust 4.387 million tonnes, stored securely until April 2026, exceeding previous highs and mitigating concerns from Middle East geopolitical tensions. With ongoing harvests expected to push procurement beyond 5 million tonnes by late April 2026 and ample warehouse capacity, Bulog is enhancing storage infrastructure through 100 new facilities planned for 2026 as per presidential directive. Regular market monitoring and stabilising measures ensure food prices remain controlled, despite challenges with commodities like chillies due to weather fluctuations.

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has announced that train services on the Maswati-Sasaksaat route in Bandung, West Java, have returned to normal following a landslide disruption on Wednesday. Intensive evacuation and recovery efforts, completed by late Wednesday night, ensured the safe resumption of operations after thorough safety checks. KAI expressed gratitude to its staff and partners for their swift response, reaffirming its commitment to safe and reliable travel for passengers.

The Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (Indef) urges the Indonesian government to reinstate electric vehicle (EV) incentives to counteract fiscal pressures arising from soaring global oil prices, which could escalate energy subsidy costs in the national budget. Without continued stimulus, EV adoption may slow after 2025, particularly among the middle class, potentially hindering energy transition efforts. Indef estimates that replacing one million conventional vehicles with EVs could save 13 million barrels of oil annually, significantly bolstering national energy balance and fiscal stability amid geopolitical tensions.